Are you considering making Canada your permanent home? It’s important to note that obtaining Canada permanent residency has become pricier. As of April 30, there’s been a significant increase in the cost of application fees, reflecting the latest updates to the immigration system. This fee hike, established every two years in alignment with the Immigration and Refugee Protection Regulations, signifies a 12% rise from the previous fees. Now, applicants will need to budget $419 (approximately Rs 34,956) for each submission, up from the prior fee of $375.29 (approximately Rs 31,310).
How Will the Increased Application Fees Affect You?
The recent adjustments in fees impact various applicant categories including permit holders, and those applying under family, humanitarian, and economic classes. Whether you are bringing your family or planning to move alone, understanding these changes is crucial.
What Are the New Fees for Canadian Permanent Residency?
For those aiming to settle in Canada with their spouse or partner, the combined fee has escalated from $515 (approximately Rs 42,965) to $575 (approximately Rs 47,971). Likewise, for individuals applying through economic and pilot programs like the Provincial Nominee or Federal Skilled Worker programs, the fees have seen an increment from $850 (approximately Rs 70,914) to $950 (approximately Rs 79,257). Meanwhile, fees for dependent children under these applications are now $260 (approximately Rs 21,691), previously $230 (approximately Rs 19,188).
For example, live-in caregivers and those applying through related programs will now pay $635 (approximately Rs 52,977) for the principal applicant and accompanying spouse or partner, a rise from $570 (approximately Rs 47,554). Charges for dependent children in these scenarios have also increased from $155 (approximately Rs 12,931) to $175 (approximately Rs 14,600).
Moreover, the family reunification pathway shows a fee increment as well. The sponsorship fee now stands at $85 (approximately Rs 7,091), a slight up from $75 (approximately Rs 6,257). Fees for sponsored principal applicants are now $545 (approximately Rs 45,468), and fees for accompanying spouses or partners and dependent children have adjusted to $635 (approximately Rs 52,977) and $175 (approximately Rs 14,600) respectively.
Will the Residency Fee Hike Impact the Number of Applicants?
Interestingly, despite these increases, interest in Canadian residency remains high, especially among Indian nationals. In 2022 alone, a remarkable 118,095 Indians secured permanent residency in Canada, reflecting a 260% surge since 2013. This growing number underscores the allure of Canada as a destination for immigrants seeking robust opportunities and a high quality of life.
By the end of 2025, Canada aims to welcome 1.45 million new permanent residents. This ambitious target underscores the country’s commitment to fostering immigrant integration as a key driver for economic growth and demographic diversity.
How to Prepare for the New Fee Structure?
When planning your application:
– Ensure to check the latest fee structure on Canada’s immigration portal to verify the exact amounts you need to prepare.
– Consider the timing of your application since fees are updated biennially.
– Payment can be made online using a credit or debit card, and for record-keeping, past receipts are accessible through your transaction history.
If you’re set on moving to Canada, being aware of these fee increments and planning accordingly will smooth your transition during this exciting chapter. Although the costs may have risen, the benefits and opportunities of living in Canada remain appealing to individuals worldwide.
Learn Today:
Glossary of Immigration Terminology:
- Permanent Residency:
- Definition: Permanent residency refers to the immigration status of a person who is not a citizen of the country they are residing in but has the right to live and work there indefinitely. In Canada, permanent residents enjoy almost all the same rights and benefits as citizens.
- Immigration Application Fees:
- Definition: Immigration application fees are the charges imposed by the government when individuals apply for immigration benefits, such as permanent residency. These fees cover the cost of processing applications, conducting background checks, and providing immigration services.
- Applicant Categories:
- Definition: Applicant categories in the context of immigration refer to different groups, such as permit holders, family members, or individuals applying under specific immigration programs like economic classes (e.g., Provincial Nominee or Federal Skilled Worker). Each category may have specific requirements and fee structures.
- Sponsorship Fee:
- Definition: A sponsorship fee is a specific amount paid by a sponsor to support the immigration application of a family member, spouse, partner, or dependent child. The sponsor undertakes a legal obligation to provide financial and emotional support to the sponsored individual upon their arrival in the country.
- Immigrant Integration:
- Definition: Immigrant integration refers to the process of newcomers adapting to the social, economic, and cultural aspects of their new country. It involves acquiring language skills, finding employment, building social connections, and becoming active members of the community. Countries like Canada prioritize immigrant integration to enhance diversity and drive economic growth.
This Article In A Nutshell:
Considering Canada for permanent residency? Recent fee hikes are essential to note. Costs of applications have risen by 12% in April. For instance, individual submissions now require $419, up from $375.29. Understand the new fee structures for spouses, dependents, and various immigration categories. Despite increased fees, Canada remains a popular choice for immigrants.
— By VisaVerge.com
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