After UK, Canada Announces New Fees for Residency, Citizenship From April 30, Nigerians Affected
- Canada has announced an increase in permanent residence and citizenship application fees
- The new fees apply to Nigerians and other foreign nationals looking for immigration status
- The government said the adjustments are part of routine updates to keep pace with inflation
Legit.ng journalist Dave Ibemere has over a decade of experience in business journalism, with in-depth knowledge of the Nigerian economy, the stock market, and broader market trends.
The government of Canada has announced an increase in application fees for permanent residence and citizenship for Nigerians and other foreign nationals seeking residency in the country.
The new fees will take effect on April 30, 2026, according to an official notice published on the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website.
Source: Getty Images
IRCC said the hike is aimed at maintaining timely and reliable services and keeping pace with inflation.
The agency said:
“Starting April 30, 2026, fees for permanent resident applications will increase as part of a routine update. Applications received on or after April 30 will be subject to the new fees."
New fees
The agency noted that permanent residence fees will increase by as low as $25, while the citizenship fee will rise by approximately 2.7%.
The Right of Permanent Residence Fee will increase by $25, from $575 to $600, while the Provincial Nominee Programme fee will rise by $40, from $950 to $990.
For Business Class applicants, the fee will increase by $85, from $1,810 to $1,895, while Family Class applications will rise by $25, from $545 to $570.
Source: Getty Images
For Protected Persons, the fee will increase by $25, from $635 to $660, while applications for visas on Humanitarian and Compassionate Grounds or Public Policy Measures will also rise by $25, from $635 to $660.
Permit holders will pay $15 more, with fees rising from $375 to $390. The Right of Citizenship fee will also increase from $119.75 to $123, effective March 31, 2026.
IRCC explained that under the Immigration and Refugee Protection Regulations, permanent residence fees are adjusted every two years to offset programme costs and respond to growing demand.
UK announces new visa fee changes
In a related development, the United Kingdom has announced plans to increase visa fees for individuals seeking to visit, study, work, or live in the country from April 8, 2026.
According to information published by the UK Home Office, the largest increase applies to the “Route to Settlement and other dependant relative,” which will rise by £222, from £3,413 to £3,635.
Other notable increases include a £197 hike for indefinite leave to remain applications across multiple categories, as well as a £114 increase for Skilled Worker visas issued for more than three years within the UK.
How much does it cost to relocate to Canada in 2026
Legit.ng earlier reported that Nigerians looking to relocate to Canada for work, permanent residency, or study must plan financially for every step.
Over the years, Canada has become a dream destination for many due to its quality universities, career opportunities, and potential pathways to permanent residency and citizenship.
A full breakdown of the cost from visa to airfares has been provided
Source: Legit.ng
