Canada Increases Fees for Permanent Residence and Citizenship for Nigerians and others.

The Government of Canada has announced an increase in application fees for permanent residence and citizenship, affecting Nigerians and other foreign nationals. The new fees will take effect on April 30, 2026, for permanent residence applications, and March 31, 2026, for citizenship applications. If you’re planning to make Canada your home, you need to be aware of these changes.

Here’s a breakdown of the updated fees:Right of Permanent Residence Fee (RPRF)*: $575 → $600 (a $25 increase)Express Entry / PNP PR application fee: $950 → $990 (a $40 increase)

Spouse/common-law partner fee: $950 → $990 (a $40 increase)

Dependent child fee: $260 → $270 (a $10 increase)

Family sponsorship fee:$85 → $90 (a $5 increase)

Citizenship fee : $119.75 → $123 (a $3.25 increase)

Applicants who submitted online applications before the deadline won’t be affected. However, those who mailed paper applications or deferred RPRF payment might need to pay the difference. The IRCC advises applicants to check their application status and ensure they comply with the new fees.

The fee increases are part of Canada’s effort to keep pace with inflation and rising program costs. According to the IRCC, the adjustments will help maintain the integrity of the immigration system and ensure that applicants contribute fairly to the costs associated with processing their applications.

If you’re planning to apply, it’s essential to update your financial planning and ensure your application is compliant with the new fees. Here are some tips to consider:

Check the IRCC website for the latest fee updates and application requirements.

Ensure you submit your application online to avoid any potential delays.

Plan ahead and budget for the increased fees. Consider consulting with an immigration expert or lawyer to ensure your application is compliant.