Canada Citizenship Fee Increases in 2025: Complete Breakdown
If you’re a permanent resident planning to apply for Canada Citizenship Fee Increases in 2025, there’s an important update you can’t ignore. As of March 31, 2025, the Government of Canada has increased the Right of Citizenship Fee for adult applicants by 20%, raising it from $100 CAD to $119.75 CAD.
This change may seem small at first glance, but for thousands of applicants, it impacts timelines and budgets. Here’s everything you need to know about this fee hike, who it affects, and how to apply without facing delays.
Why the Canada Citizenship Fee Increases
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) routinely reviews its fee structures to reflect operational costs and inflation. This is the first major update since previous reforms and is aimed at ensuring better service delivery while supporting immigration infrastructure.
New Citizenship Application Fees (Adults 18+)
From March 31, 2025, adult applicants will pay a total of $649.75 CAD, which includes:
| Fee Type | Amount (CAD) |
|---|---|
| Processing Fee (Age 18+) | $530.00 |
| Right of Citizenship Fee | $119.75 |
| Total | $649.75 |
This new fee applies whether you’re submitting your application online or by mail.
What About Children and Stateless Adults?
If you’re applying for a child under the age of 18 or you’re a stateless adult born to Canadian parents, the rules are slightly different—and in some cases, more affordable.
Minor Applicants (Under 18 Years Old):
- Fee remains unchanged at $100 CAD
- No Right of Citizenship Fee is applied
Stateless Adults Born to Canadian Parents:
- Pay only the Right of Citizenship Fee of $119.75 CAD
- Processing fee does not apply
Important Note: Don’t Underpay
If you submit an application after March 31, 2025, but pay the old $100 fee, IRCC will not reject your application, but they will notify you to pay the additional $19.75.
What Happens if You Pay the Old Fee?
- Your application will be flagged for additional payment
- You will receive a top-up notice
- Processing may be delayed until the balance is paid
Required Documents and Eligibility for Canadian Citizenship
Fee changes are just one part of the process. Here’s a checklist of what you need to qualify for Canadian citizenship:
Basic Eligibility Criteria:
- Be a permanent resident of Canada
- Physically present in Canada for at least 1,095 days (3 out of 5 years)
- Filed income taxes for 3 years (if required under the Income Tax Act)
- Pass the Canadian citizenship test (for applicants aged 18-54)
- Demonstrate language skills in English or French
- Attend the citizenship ceremony and take the Oath of Citizenship
Benefits of Canadian Citizenship
Once you’re granted citizenship, you unlock several exclusive benefits, including:
- A powerful Canadian passport for global travel
- The right to vote in federal, provincial, and municipal elections
- Free access to national parks and cultural heritage sites
- Ability to apply for government jobs restricted to citizens
- No need to renew PR cards or deal with immigration renewals
Tips to Avoid Delays in Your Application
To ensure a smooth application process:
- Double-check the current fees before submitting your application
- Submit all required documents in the correct format
- Pay via official payment channels only
- Monitor your email for any top-up notices or missing documents
- Consider using a certified immigration consultant or lawyer if unsure
Is It Still Worth It in 2025?
Yes—absolutely. While the $19.75 increase may feel inconvenient, the long-term benefits of Canadian citizenship far outweigh the additional cost. For many immigrants, Canada remains one of the most desirable countries in the world, offering stability, healthcare, education, and career opportunities.
If you’ve been waiting to apply, this may be your perfect reminder to act before any more changes take place.
Related Resources:
- IRCC Official Citizenship Fees Page
- Canada Citizenship Eligibility Tool
- How to Apply for Canadian PR: Step-by-Step Guide
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: What is the new Canadian citizenship fee for adults in 2025?
As of March 31, 2025, adult applicants must pay a total of $649.75 CAD, which includes a $530 processing fee and a $119.75 Right of Citizenship Fee.
Q2: Does the fee increase apply to online applications only?
No. The fee increase applies to both online and paper applications.
Q3: What happens if I paid the old fee after March 31, 2025?
Your application will not be rejected, but IRCC will ask you to pay the additional $19.75, potentially causing delays.
Q4: Do minors still pay the same citizenship fee?
Yes. Children under 18 still pay a flat $100 CAD fee, with no increase.
Q5: Is Canadian citizenship worth the cost?
Yes. With benefits like voting rights, a Canadian passport, and access to public services, it remains a valuable investment in your future.
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