Canada Raises Permanent Residence, Citizenship Fees for Nigerians, Others

Canada Raises Permanent Residence, Citizenship Fees for Nigerians, Others

The Government of Canada has announced a significant increase in immigration fees, affecting Nigerians and other foreign nationals seeking permanent residence or Canadian citizenship. The fee hike will take effect on April 30, 2026, for permanent residence applications, while citizenship fees will rise slightly earlier, according to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).

The agency said the adjustments are part of a routine review to maintain efficient and timely immigration services, keep pace with inflation, and respond to growing demand. Applications received on or after the effective dates will be subject to the new fee structure.

Under the updated schedule, the Right of Permanent Residence Fee will increase from CA$575 to CA$600, while the Provincial Nominee Programme fee rises from CA$950 to CA$990. Business Class applications will see a jump of CA$85, moving from CA$1,810 to CA$1,895, and Family Class applications will increase from CA$545 to CA$570.

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Other categories affected include Protected Persons and applications on Humanitarian and Compassionate Grounds or Public Policy Measures, each rising from CA$635 to CA$660. Permit Holders will pay CA$390, up from CA$375, and the Right of Citizenship Fee increases from CA$119.75 to CA$123, effective March 31, 2026.

The IRCC explained that under the Immigration and Refugee Protection Regulations, immigration fees are reviewed every two years to ensure they cover program costs and sustain service delivery standards. While the increases are modest in some categories, the cumulative impact may be substantial for families or applicants submitting multiple applications.

Canada continues to be a preferred destination for Nigerians and other global migrants seeking work, study, or permanent settlement. Experts advise prospective applicants to submit applications before the fee hike to avoid higher costs, particularly for permanent residence, business class, and family sponsorship applications.

Canada Raises Permanent Residence, Citizenship Fees for Nigerians, Others