On This Page You Will Find:
- The new right of citizenship fee amount
- What to do if you already paid the old fee
- How to pay the fee difference
- Rules for mailed and online applications
- Frequently asked questions
Canada Raises Right of Citizenship Fee
On March 31, 2025, the Canadian government implemented an increase to the right of citizenship fee for adult applicants, raising it from $100.00 to $119.75. This fee is necessary for individuals seeking to obtain Canadian citizenship and is distinct from the application processing fee. It’s crucial to remain informed about such updates, as they can affect your citizenship application journey.
This adjustment applies specifically to all applicants aged 18 and older, while children under 18 years of age are exempt from this fee. Understanding these changes is key to smoothly navigating your citizenship application.
Background: How Canadian Citizenship Works
To qualify for Canadian citizenship, applicants must fulfill specific requirements:
- Must be a permanent resident of Canada.
- Must have resided in Canada for a minimum of 1,095 days over the past five years.
- Must have filed income taxes, when applicable.
- Must pass a citizenship test if aged between 18 and 54.
- Must demonstrate appropriate language skills in either English or French, also applicable for those aged 18–54.
Once granted citizenship, applicants receive a citizenship certificate, allowing them to apply for a Canadian passport. Remember, the right of citizenship fee needs to be settled before receiving this certificate. For detailed guidelines on the application process, please refer to our full guide on applying for citizenship.
What Happens If You Paid the Old Fee?
Online Applications
For online applications, payments are recorded immediately. If you submitted your application after March 31, 2025, and only paid the old fee, your application will be flagged. The Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) will request payment of the $19.75 difference before processing can continue.
Mailed Applications
Unlike online submissions, mailed applications can take time to arrive. If you sent in your application before the fee increase on March 31, 2025, and it was completed with the old fee, it will not be rejected outright. However, you will be contacted to pay the remaining fee difference.
If You Did Not Pay the Fee at Time of Application
If you opted to only pay the processing fee and deferred the right of citizenship fee, you’ll now need to remit the full amount of $119.75, regardless of when your application was initially submitted.
How to Pay the Fee Difference
For those who paid the previous fee of $100.00, a payment of $19.75 will be required for each adult applicant included in your application.
To effectively pay this difference, follow these steps:
- Calculate the amount
Multiply $19.75 by the number of adult applicants affected. - Make the payment
Use the government’s online payment platform and select the “make an additional payment” option. - Enter the quantity
Input the total number of payees to get your total fee. Payments can be made either in a lump sum or through separate transactions. - Submit your receipt
Follow specific instructions as provided in the IRCC’s request message regarding how to present proof of payment.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the new right of citizenship fee in Canada?
As of March 31, 2025, the right of citizenship fee for adults is $119.75. This fee is required to receive your Canadian citizenship certificate after your application is approved.
Do I need to pay the difference if I already applied?
Yes, if you applied online after the fee increase but paid the old fee. For mailed applications sent before March 31, 2025, IRCC may accept the old fee but will ask for the $19.75 difference.
Can I still apply with the old fee amount?
No. All new applications submitted after March 31, 2025, must include the new fee. If you submitted earlier and the application arrives late, you may be requested to pay the difference.
What if I didn’t pay the citizenship fee at all when I applied?
You will need to pay the full new fee of $119.75 before your application is processed any further. IRCC will provide you with instructions on how to pay.
Does this fee apply to children under 18?
No. The right of citizenship fee is charged only to adult applicants aged 18 and over. Children are exempt from this specific fee but must still meet all other eligibility criteria.
