If you’re planning to apply for Canadian citizenship this year, there’s an important update that could impact your application cost. As of March 31, 2025, Canada has officially raised the right of citizenship fee from $100 to $119.75 for adult applicants. While this might not seem like a huge change, it’s essential for applicants to understand how this affects both new and existing applications.
Here, we’ll break down everything you need to know about the updated fee, how it applies to you, and what steps to take to stay compliant. Whether you’re applying online or by mail, here’s how to handle the new requirement with confidence.
What Is the Right of Citizenship Fee?
The right of citizenship fee is a mandatory charge separate from the processing fee. It must be paid before your Canadian citizenship certificate is issued. The fee applies to adult applicants (18 and older) and is not required for minors.
As of March 31, 2025, the new amount stands at $119.75, marking a 19.75% increase from the previous fee of $100.
Who Needs to Pay the New Fee?
If you fall into one of these categories, the new fee applies to you:
- New adult applicants submitting a citizenship application on or after March 31, 2025.
- Existing applicants who submitted their applications but paid only the old $100 fee.
- Applicants who delayed paying the right of citizenship fee at the time of submission.
- Minors under 18 are exempt from paying this fee, regardless of their application date.
How This Affects Online and Mail Applications
Understanding the difference in processing timelines is crucial. Here’s how the change is being handled for each type of application:
Online Applications
- Online submissions are timestamped immediately.
- If you submitted after March 31 but paid the old $100, IRCC will send you a request to pay the remaining $19.75.
Mail-In Applications
- If your mailed application was sent before March 31 and included the old fee, it may still be accepted.
- However, IRCC will likely reach out and ask for the additional $19.75 to complete your file.
Tip: Always keep proof of when your application was submitted or mailed to avoid any confusion.
Paying the Fee Difference: Step-by-Step
If you already applied but didn’t pay the full amount, here’s how to correct it:
- Calculate the difference: $19.75 × number of adult applicants in your submission.
- Visit the IRCC Payment Portal: Select the “make an additional payment” option.
- Enter details and pay: Submit the total amount and download the payment receipt.
- Submit your receipt to IRCC: Follow the instructions in the IRCC request message. Timely submission is key to avoid delays.
FAQs: Citizenship Fee Update in Canada
Q1: Do I still qualify if I paid the old fee but applied late?
A: If you applied after March 31, 2025, you must pay the new fee—even if you previously paid the old amount.
Q2: What if I didn’t pay the fee at all?
A: You’ll be required to pay the full $119.75 before your application is processed.
Q3: Are there any exceptions for the increase?
A: The only exception is for minors under 18, who are not subject to the right of citizenship fee.
Why This Citizenship Fee Adjustment Matters
The fee increase reflects inflation adjustments and the cost of processing services, aligning with Canada’s ongoing updates to its immigration programs. While it’s a relatively small hike, the impact on families applying together can add up. Staying informed helps avoid unnecessary delays or rejections—especially when fees and documentation are so tightly regulated.
The Canada citizenship fee increase may feel like a small detail, but it carries big consequences for unprepared applicants. Whether you’re submitting now or already in the process, make sure your payment reflects the new $119.75 rate to avoid interruptions in your path to citizenship. At ImmigCanada, we stay ahead of every update so you don’t have to. Reach out today for personalized guidance through every step of your citizenship journey.
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