Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) have recently rolled out a fresh set of immigration fee hikes starting December 1, 2025. These changes impact various immigration categories, including inadmissibility applications, status restoration, and International Experience Canada (IEC). The adjustments will influence the overall application costs for temporary residents, such as international students and work permit holders seeking to reinstate their status.
Updated IRCC Fees (Effective December 1, 2025)
IRCC has raised several fees related to inadmissibility, affecting individuals requiring authorization or status restoration due to past immigration issues. The new fee structure includes changes to various categories like authorization to return to Canada, temporary resident permit, and inadmissibility based on criminality.
- Authorization to return to Canada: $492.50 (from $479.75)
- Temporary resident permit: $246.25 (from $239.75)
- Inadmissible on grounds of criminality: $246.25 (from $239.75)
- Inadmissible on grounds of serious criminality: $1,231.00 (from $1,199.00)
- Restore your status as a visitor: $246.25 (from $239.75)
- Restore your status as a worker: $246.25 (from $239.75)
- Restore your status as a worker and get a new work permit: $401.25 (from $394.75)
- Restore your status as a student: $246.25 (from $239.75)
- Restore your status as a student and get a new study permit: $396.25 (from $389.75)
These adjustments align with IRCC’s efforts to ensure proper funding for processing and enforcement activities amid increasing application volumes. Additionally, the International Experience Canada (IEC) fees have also been revised.
Earlier Fee Changes in 2025
Preceding these updates were two fee modifications earlier in the year. On April 1, 2025, the removal expense fees saw adjustments based on the timing and type of removal. Furthermore, on March 31, 2025, there was a rise in the right of citizenship fee applicable to all adult citizenship applicants.
If applicants paid the old fee, they may be required to settle the difference based on certain conditions detailed by IRCC. The payment procedure involves calculating the owed amount, visiting IRCC’s payment portal, entering the quantity, making the payment, and following IRCC’s submission instructions.
These fee changes are part of IRCC’s broader cost-recovery plan aimed at keeping pace with administrative demands as immigration volumes surge. Applicants are advised to adhere to the updated fee structure, particularly with 2026 program updates and immigration targets on the horizon.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Do these increases affect all immigration applications?
No, only inadmissibility, status restoration, and IEC fees have changed as of December 2025.
What if my application is already in process?
If submitted online before December 1, 2025, the correct fee was likely paid. Mailed applications may require payment of the difference.
What is status restoration in Canada?
Status restoration allows temporary residents to reapply for legal status within 90 days of losing it without leaving Canada, subject to eligibility rules.
How do I restore my lost status in Canada?
To restore status, apply online within 90 days of losing it, pay the restoration fee and any additional permit fees, and provide necessary documents.
What happens if I miss the 90-day restoration window?
If the 90-day period lapses, restoration is no longer an option, requiring individuals to leave Canada and reapply from abroad.
Can I work while waiting for my status restoration?
No, working while awaiting status restoration approval is not permitted.
