What You Should Do
Short answer: Submit before April 30 at 9:00 AM ET if your application is ready (applications received before the deadline are grandfathered at current rates) โ if your application is almost ready, prioritize completing documents now since a family of four saves roughly $75 to $120; do not rush an incomplete application since incomplete submissions get returned and you would resubmit at the new rates anyway.
If Your Application Is Ready
Submit it before April 30 at 9:00 AM ET. Applications received before the deadline are grandfathered at the current fee schedule. Do not wait.
If Your Application Is Almost Ready
You have 18 days. Prioritize completing your documents now. The savings are modest per person ($25โ$85), but for a family of four applying through Express Entry, the total increase is roughly $75โ$120.
If You Are Still Gathering Documents
Do not rush an incomplete application just to beat the deadline. An incomplete submission will be returned, and you will need to resubmit at the new rates. A complete application at the higher fee is better than an incomplete one that gets rejected.
Why Are Fees Increasing?
Short answer: This is an automatic biennial adjustment tied to the Consumer Price Index โ IRCC is required under the regulations to adjust fees every two years to keep pace with inflation, and the last adjustment was in 2024.
This is an automatic biennial adjustment tied to the Consumer Price Index (CPI). IRCC is required under the regulations to adjust fees every two years to keep pace with inflation. The last adjustment was in 2024.
Need Help Getting Your Application Ready?
Short answer: Book an appointment with Go Far Global if you want to submit before the April 30 deadline but need help preparing your application โ the team can review documents and ensure your application is complete before the fee increase takes effect.
If you want to submit before the April 30 deadline but need help preparing your application, book an appointment with our team. We can review your documents and ensure your application is complete before the fee increase takes effect.
Published April 12, 2026. Source: IRCC Official Notice