If you’re planning to apply for Canadian citizenship, be prepared to pay a higher fee starting March 31, 2025. Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has announced a 20% increase in the Right of Citizenship Fee for adult applicants, raising it from $100 to $119.75.
Though the change may seem minor, it affects every adult applicant, so it’s important to understand the revised fee structure if you’re ready to take the final step toward becoming a Canadian citizen.
Updated Fee Structure for Adults (18 and over)
As of March 31, 2025, adult applicants will need to pay a total of $649.75, broken down as follows:
| Fee Type | Amount (CAD) |
|---|---|
| Processing Fee (18+) | $530 |
| Right of Citizenship Fee | $119.75 |
| Total | $649.75 |
What About Minors and Stateless Adults?
There is no change for children and some special cases:
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Minors under 18: The application fee remains $100.
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Stateless adults born to Canadian parents are required to pay only the $119.75 Right of Citizenship Fee.
The fee remains the same whether you apply online or by mail.
Pay the Correct Fee to Avoid Delays
If you mistakenly pay the old fee of $100 after March 31, 2025, IRCC will not reject your application. However, they will flag it and request payment of the $19.75 difference.
Applications mailed before March 31 with the old fee will still be processed, but you will still be required to pay the difference.
To avoid unnecessary delays, it’s recommended to pay the correct fee when submitting your application.
Eligibility Criteria for Canadian Citizenship
To apply for Canadian citizenship, you must:
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Be a permanent resident
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Have lived in Canada for at least 1,095 days (3 years) out of the last 5 years
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Have filed your income taxes, if required
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Pass the Canadian citizenship test
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Prove language proficiency in English or French
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Attend the citizenship ceremony and take the Oath of Citizenship
Benefits of Canadian Citizenship
Once you become a citizen, you’ll gain several important rights and privileges, including:
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The ability to apply for a Canadian passport
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The right to vote in federal, provincial, and municipal elections
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Free access to Canada’s national parks and cultural sites
For more information and updates, visit the official IRCC website.
