On December 17, 2025, Canada made a significant update to its immigration fee regulations by publishing new Remission Orders in the Canada Gazette, Part II. These orders aim to resolve outstanding fee issues for specific groups of applicants, ensuring that they are not pursued for fees that were not collected due to administrative adjustments. This article will delve into the implications of these changes, who is affected, and what steps applicants should take next.
Key Takeaways
- New Remission Orders address the RPRF for approved applicants including Afghan, Colombian, Haitian, and Venezuelan nationals.
- A separate order remits "small debt" amounts related to uncollected CPI adjustments for inadmissibility fees from 2019 to 2023.
- These changes are administrative and financial, not eligibility-related; affected individuals should keep documentation.
- Applicants should watch for instructions from IRCC if they believe they are affected by these changes.
- Fee remission can prevent future billing for amounts not initially collected.
Understanding the New Remission Orders
The newly published Remission Orders under the Financial Administration Act target specific uncollected fees and debts related to the Immigration and Refugee Protection Regulations (IRPR). These orders are designed to formally waive fees that were not collected, preventing future collection actions for amounts that applicants may not have been aware they owed.
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Processing Time | 6-8 months (as of January 2025) |
| Application Fee | CAD $1,365 |
Who is Affected by the Changes?
The Remission Orders primarily affect certain Colombian, Haitian, Venezuelan, and Afghan nationals. These groups have been approved under specified public policies that are referenced in the orders, which remit the Right of Permanent Residence Fee (RPRF) that would otherwise be payable.
- Certain Colombian, Haitian, and Venezuelan nationals approved under public policies.
- Afghan nationals approved under a temporary public policy signed in June 2023.
Important: These orders do not change eligibility requirements. They address financial and administrative aspects. Ensure all related documents are kept safe.
Breakdown of Remission Orders
Each Remission Order has specific targets and implications:
RPRF Remission for Colombian, Haitian, and Venezuelan Nationals
The Remission Order SI/2025-123 waives the RPRF for Colombian, Haitian, and Venezuelan nationals approved under certain policies. This order ensures these applicants are not billed for the RPRF at a later date.
RPRF Remission for Afghan Nationals
The Remission Order SI/2025-124 applies to Afghan nationals approved under a temporary policy. This formal remission prevents them from being pursued for the RPRF that was not collected.
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Note: Applicants should verify their status and eligibility for remission by consulting IRCC notices and maintaining all relevant documents.
Addressing Inadmissibility Fee Debts
The Remission Order SI/2025-126 focuses on inadmissibility-related fees. These fees include uncollected CPI-linked increases over the period from December 2019 to November 2023, affecting thousands of potential clients.
Inadmissibility Fees Covered
- Authorization to return to Canada fee
- Determination of rehabilitation – criminality fee
- Determination of rehabilitation – serious criminality fee
- Restoration of temporary resident status fee
- Temporary resident permit fee
Action Checklist
- Check if your application falls under the specified public policies.
- Keep all payment receipts and IRCC correspondence.
- Monitor IRCC updates for instructions on fee adjustments or refunds.
- Consult a professional if uncertain about your fee status.
- Respond promptly to any IRCC communications regarding fees.
Conclusion
The new Remission Orders provide clarity and financial relief for certain groups of applicants affected by uncollected fees. While these orders resolve administrative and financial issues, it is crucial for affected individuals to remain vigilant, keep thorough documentation, and follow any forthcoming instructions from IRCC.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a Remission Order change immigration eligibility rules?
Generally, no. A remission order is about fees or debts (financial administration), not about changing who qualifies for a pathway. You still must meet the program or public policy requirements that applied to your file.
I paid the RPRF. Does “fee paid or payable” mean I’ll automatically get a refund?
Not always automatically. “Paid or payable” indicates the remission can cover both situations, but the practical refund or adjustment process depends on how IRCC implements it. Keep receipts and watch for official instructions or contact IRCC through official channels if you believe you’re eligible.
Which fees are covered by the inadmissibility-fee remission order?
The Gazette describes five fee types tied to inadmissibility processing (e.g., authorization to return, rehabilitation, restoration, and temporary resident permits) and remits uncollected annual CPI-linked increases for the period Dec. 1, 2019 to Nov. 30, 2023.
Where can I read the exact legal wording?
Use the official Canada Gazette, Part II issue dated December 17, 2025, and look for the specific SI/2025 instruments described above.
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Sources: Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), official government publications
