Canada Permanent Residency Fees Increase 2026
Written By
Corinna Frattini
Apr 18, 2026
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Planning your move to Canada? You’ll need to set aside a bit more for your application this year. Every two years, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) adjusts its prices to keep up with rising costs and inflation. As of April 30, 2026, the new Canada permanent residency fees are in effect for all economic, family, and humanitarian streams.
If you are a single applicant, the total Canada permanent residency fees for Express Entry have risen to $1,590. This total includes your mandatory processing fee and the Right of Permanent Residence Fee 2026, which is now $600.
While the IRCC fee increase in April 2026 applies to most programs, your total cost will depend on which pathway you choose. If you aren’t sure which program fits you yet, check out our guide on the PR Process in Canada and common ways to immigrate to find your best match.
How Much Are Canada Permanent Residency Fees in 2026?
As of April 30, 2026, the total cost for one adult applying through Express Entry or a Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) is $1,590. This covers your $990 processing fee and the $600 “Right of Permanent Residence Fee.”
2026 Permanent Residency Fee Updates

The fees for most permanent resident applications are increasing by approximately 12% (or adjusted by specific dollar amounts) starting April 30, 2026
Economic Immigration (Express Entry, PNP, etc.)
The most popular route for skilled workers is the Express Entry system. If you’re starting your journey, you can learn more about how the points system and draws work in our deep dive: What is Express Entry Canada?
| Who is Applying | Processing Fee | Residence Fee (RPRF) | Total 2026 Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| You (Main Applicant) | $990 | +$600 | $1,590 |
| Your Spouse/Partner | $990 | +$600 | $1,590 |
| Dependent Child | $270 | $0 | $270 |
| Business/Start-up Visa | $1,895 | +$600 | $2,495 |
💡Quick Tip: The Right of Permanent Residence Fee (RPRF) is now $600 (up from $575). You can pay this upfront to speed things up. If your application isn’t approved, don’t worry, you get the $600 back!
Other Key Immigration Fees
| Category | 2024 Fee | New 2026 Fee |
| Citizenship Adult (18+) | $630 | *$653 ($530 fee + $123 Right of Citizenship or R.o.C. fee) |
| Citizenship Minor (<18) | $100 | $100 (No change) |
| PR Card | $50 | $50 (Still no change) |
| PR Travel Document | $50 | $50 (Still no change) |
| Biometrics (Per Person) | $85 | $85 (No change) |
| Biometrics (Family of 2+) | $170 | $170 (No change) |
*Unlike PR fees, which increase every two years, the Right of Citizenship fee (for adults) increases annually for inflation. As of March 31, 2026, it rose from $119.75 to $123. The good news is that some of the smaller “paperwork” fees aren’t changing at all this year.
📍Important: The “Two-Stage” Fee Rule. Most applicants forget that PNP application processing fees often include two stages. When calculating your Canada permanent residency fees, don’t forget the provincial stage. The fees above are the federal stage. Your specific province will charge a separate fee. In 2026, these range from $250 (Nova Scotia) to as much as $1,750 (British Columbia) or $2,000 (Ontario) depending on the stream.
The Bottom Line

While the increase in Canada PR fees isn’t the most exciting news, Canada is still much more affordable than places like Australia or the UK.
Government fees are only one part of your relocation budget. From flight costs to ‘Proof of Funds’ requirements, it’s important to see the full financial picture. See our complete breakdown: How Much Money Will I Need to Move to Canada?
Just make sure you check the official IRCC website before you pay. It’s always better to double-check your math now than to have your application sent back later!
Common Questions About the 2026 Canada PR Fees Increase
If you hit “submit” before April 30, 2026, you’re in the clear! But if you wait until April 30 or later, you’ll have to pay the new 2026 price. If you already have a receipt for the old amount, you’ll need to pay the difference (the “top-up”) on the IRCC website.
The $600 RPRF is refundable if your application is refused. However, the $990 processing fee is non-refundable once IRCC begins reviewing your file.
The $990 fee listed above is what you pay the federal government. Just remember that most provinces (like Ontario or B.C.) have their own separate fee you have to pay first to get nominated.
The Right of Citizenship fee rose on March 31, 2026, to $123. This brings the total cost for an adult citizenship application to $653.
If you paid the 2024 rates, you can go to the official IRCC website to pay the difference. Keep both receipts to show you’ve paid the full 2026 amount.
WRITTEN BY
Corinna Frattini
Senior Editor and Content Director, Prepare for Canada
Corinna researches and writes content to help newcomers make informed decisions about housing, employment, banking, and aspects of settling in Canada. With a background in human resources and leadership development, her articles focus on how newcomers can continue their careers in Canada. Her writing combines research, practical guidance, and clear language to support newcomers on their journey.
© Prepare for Canada 2026