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 increased the right of citizenship fee for adult applicants from $100.00 to $119.75. This fee is required to obtain Canadian citizenship and is separate from the processing fee.
This increase applies to all adult applicants aged 18 and older. Children under 18 are not required to pay the right of citizenship fee.
Background: How Canadian Citizenship Works
To become a Canadian citizen, you must meet certain criteria:
- Be a permanent resident of Canada
- Have lived in Canada for at least 1,095 days in the last five years
- Have filed income taxes, if required
- Pass a citizenship test (for applicants aged 18–54)
- Demonstrate language skills in English or French (for applicants aged 18–54)
Once approved, you receive a citizenship certificate and can apply for a Canadian passport. The right of citizenship fee must be paid before this certificate is issued. Read our full guide on applying for citizenship.
What Happens If You Paid the Old Fee?
Online Applications
Online applications are received instantly. If you paid the old fee before submitting on or after March 31, 2025, your application will be flagged. IRCC will request that you pay the $19.75 difference.
Mailed Applications
There is a delay between sending a mailed application and when it’s received. If you mailed it before March 31, 2025, and the application was complete with the old fee, it will not be rejected. However, you’ll be asked to pay the difference.
If You Did Not Pay the Fee at Time of Application
Some applicants choose to submit the processing fee and pay the right of citizenship fee later. If you did this, you must now pay the new amount of $119.75, even if your application was submitted before the increase.
How to Pay the Fee Difference
If you paid the old $100.00 fee, you must pay the $19.75 difference. This also applies to each adult family member included in the application.
To pay the difference:
- Calculate the amount
Multiply $19.75 by the number of affected applicants.
- Make the payment
Use the government’s online payment portal under the “make an additional payment” category.
- Enter the quantity
This will calculate your total fee. You can pay all at once or in separate transactions.
- Submit your receipt
Follow the specific instructions provided in IRCC’s request message, which will explain how to submit 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 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 is received late, you may be asked 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 contact you with instructions on how to pay.
Does this fee apply to children under 18?
No. The right of citizenship fee is only charged to adult applicants aged 18 and over. Children are exempt from this specific fee but must still meet all eligibility requirements.
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