As of April 1, 2026, Canadian passport fees have increased for the first time since 2013. Adults applying for a regular 10-year passport will now pay $163.50, a slight increase from the previous fee of $160. Similarly, the cost for a regular five-year passport has risen to $122.50 from $120. These changes reflect the government’s ongoing efforts to manage the costs associated with passport processing.

In addition to passport fee adjustments, the right of citizenship fee has also seen an increase, rising by $3.25 from $119.75 to $123. This fee hike is part of a broader strategy to ensure that the costs associated with citizenship applications align with current economic realities.

Another significant change is the introduction of a new 30-day passport processing guarantee, which aims to expedite the application process for those in urgent need of travel documents. This measure is expected to enhance the efficiency of the passport issuance system, providing a more responsive service to Canadians.

On the immigration front, the super visa program has undergone modifications, with income requirements being eased to facilitate family reunification for international visitors. Furthermore, provinces now have greater authority in assessing candidates for provincial nominations, allowing for a more localized approach to immigration that can better meet regional labor market needs.

Economic immigrants will benefit from extended access to federally funded settlement services for up to six years after obtaining permanent resident status. This initiative is designed to support newcomers in their integration process, ensuring they have the resources needed to thrive in their new environment.

In a move to address labor shortages, rural employers are now permitted to hire additional temporary foreign workers under the low-wage stream. This change is crucial for sectors struggling to find local workers, particularly in rural areas where job vacancies are prevalent.

Moreover, Saskatchewan’s Immigrant Nominee Program has increased its application fees to $500, reflecting the rising costs associated with processing applications. In a recent draw, the IRCC issued 2,250 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) for Canadian Experience Class candidates, highlighting the ongoing demand for skilled workers in Canada. Additionally, the Federal Credential Recognition (FCR) program aims to establish 58 agreements to assist 32,000 internationally trained professionals in integrating into the Canadian workforce.

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