The Canadian government has implemented a comprehensive set of updates to its immigration and travelling rules and document protocols. Starting from April 1, these adjustments include revised fee structure, enhanced processing assurances and greater flexibilities for families and rural employers.
The Canadian government has implemented a comprehensive set of updates to its immigration and travelling rules and document protocols. Starting from April 1, these adjustments include revised fee structure, enhanced processing assurances and greater flexibilities for families and rural employers.
Revised Passport And Citizenship Costs
After these updates, the cost of obtaining a Canadian passport has seen a marginal hike immidialety. Now, the price of a 10-year-old adult's passport will be CAD USD 163.50, while the 5-year version has risen to CAD USD 122.50.
Citizenship expenses have also been adjusted, with the right of citizenship fee now set at CAD USD 123.
New Passport Processing Guarantee
A 30-days processing guarantee has been also introduced to balance the recent fee hikes. Applicants who submit complete documentations are now eligible to get a full refund if their passport will not processed within the 30-day window.
This automatic refund policy is designed to ensure accountability and efficiency in government services.
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Relaxed Requirements For Super Visa
New relaxations have been introduced for the Super Visa program, which permits parents and grandparents to stay in Canada for up to five years at a time. Sponsors can now satisfy income requirements using data from either of the last two tax years. Furthermore, the income of the visiting parent or grandparent can be combined with the sponsor's income to meet the necessary financial thresholds.
Increased Provincial Autonomy In Selection
Provinces and territories have been granted expanded authority over the immigration process. Local governments now hold the primary responsibility for assessing whether a candidate intends to reside in the region and their potential for economic integration. Federal officers will no longer independently evaluate these specific criteria, shifting more control to regional authorities.
Extension Of Settlement Service Eligibility
The timeframe for accessing federally funded settlement services has been lengthened for economic immigrants. Newcomers can now utilise these resources for up to six years after obtaining permanent residency. However, this eligibility period is scheduled to revert to five years beginning in April 2027.
Updated Application Fees For Saskatchewan
The Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program (SINP) has standardised its fee structure. A CAD USD 500 application fee is now mandatory across all worker immigration categories. Additionally, applicants who wish to challenge an "ineligible" decision will be required to pay a CAD USD 250 fee for a second review.
Workforce Flexibility For Rural Employers
In an effort to support rural economies, the cap on low-wage foreign workers has been increased. Rural employers can now fill up to 15 per cent of their workforce through this stream, a rise from the previous 10 per cent limit. This temporary measure is slated to remain in effect until March 2027, contingent upon provincial cooperation.