IRCC Policy Update — April 30, 2026
Thursday, April 30, 2026
Eight immigration changes took effect on March 31 or April 1, 2026, including a passport fee increase (10-year adult passport now $163.50, up from $160), a new 30-business-day passport processing guarantee with a free passport remedy if missed, and expanded super visa income flexibility.
As of March 30, 2026, provinces gained sole authority to assess PNP applicants' intent to reside and economic establishment ability, removing IRCC from that evaluation step.
IRCC's 2026–27 Departmental Plan identifies three key priorities: sustainable migration aligned to regional needs, digital modernization of program delivery, and an orderly migration system — reflecting a continued push to reduce processing times through technology.
What You Should Do
- If you need to renew or apply for a Canadian passport, submit your application under the new 30-business-day guarantee — if IRCC misses the deadline, your passport is free. Apply at canada.ca/passport or at a Service Canada office.
- Review the updated super visa income requirements effective April 1, 2026, at canada.ca/super-visa — sponsors who did not previously qualify due to income thresholds should reassess their eligibility now.
- Check the full list of eight April 1 immigration changes at cicnews.com to identify any that apply to your specific application type, as several other measures beyond passport fees and super visas also took effect.
Sources
Topics Covered
2026-2028 Immigration Levels Plan: IRCC's 2026–27 Departmental Plan confirms the government's focus on sustainable, regionally-aligned migration and digital modernization, with the 2026–2028 Levels Plan as the overarching framework guiding admissions targets across all categories.
Service Fee Adjustments: Effective March 31, 2026, Canadian passport fees increased for the first time since 2013 — a 10-year adult passport now costs $163.50 (up from $160) and a 5-year passport costs $122.50 (up from $120). IRCC cited inflation and rising production costs.
More IRCC Policy Updates
IRCC Policy Update — June 8, 2026
Jun 8, 2026
IRCC Policy Update — June 4, 2026
Jun 4, 2026
IRCC Policy Update — June 1, 2026
Jun 1, 2026
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