What Happens After Paying the Right of Permanent Residence Fee in Canada?

Securing permanent residence in Canada is a significant achievement for individuals navigating the immigration process. Once an applicant receives the approval for permanent residence, there is a final step that involves paying the Right of Permanent Residence Fee (RPRF). In this article, we will explore what happens after paying right of permanent residence fee, the implications for applicants, and the subsequent steps in the journey toward settling in the Great White North.

Understanding the Right of Permanent Residence Fee:

1. What is the RPRF? The Right of Permanent Residence Fee is a fee imposed by the Canadian government on individuals who have been approved for permanent residence. This fee is separate from the application processing fees and is required to be paid before the issuance of the permanent resident visa.
2. Who Needs to Pay the RPRF? In general, applicants aged 22 or older who are approved for permanent residence need to pay the RPRF. There are exceptions, such as dependent children and certain protected persons. It is important to check the specific requirements based on the immigration category under which an individual is applying.

Paying the RPRF:

1. Payment Notification: Once an applicant receives a letter or notification from Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) requesting the payment of the RPRF, it’s time to initiate the payment process.
2. Payment Options: The RPRF can be paid online through the IRCC website. Applicants typically have a specified period within which to make the payment, and it’s important to adhere to the deadline to avoid delays in the processing of the permanent resident visa.
3. Confirmation of Payment: After successfully submitting the payment, applicants will receive a confirmation of payment. This confirmation is a crucial document that should be retained for future reference.

What Happens After Paying the RPRF:

1. Visa Issuance: Once the RPRF has been paid and confirmed, the immigration authorities will proceed with the issuance of the permanent resident visa. This visa is the final document that allows individuals to travel to Canada and become permanent residents.
2. Travel to Canada: With the permanent resident visa in hand, individuals are eligible to travel to Canada. It’s important to note that the permanent resident visa typically has an expiration date, so applicants should plan their travel accordingly.
3. Activation of Permanent Residence: Upon arrival in Canada, the permanent resident status is officially activated. This is a significant moment, marking the beginning of the individual’s life as a permanent resident in the country.

Post-Arrival Steps for Permanent Residents:

1. Obtaining the Permanent Resident Card (PR Card): While the permanent resident visa allows initial entry into Canada, individuals are encouraged to apply for a PR Card as soon as possible. The PR Card serves as official proof of permanent resident status and is necessary for re-entry into Canada after international travel.
2. Social Insurance Number (SIN): Permanent residents are eligible to apply for a Social Insurance Number (SIN), which is essential for accessing various government services, employment, and benefits.
3. Health Insurance: In Canada, health care is primarily provided through the public healthcare system. It’s important for new permanent residents to apply for provincial health insurance coverage as soon as they arrive in their respective provinces.
4. Settling In: Settling into a new country involves various aspects, including finding accommodation, opening a bank account, and understanding the local community. Many municipalities offer settlement services and resources to assist newcomers in this transition.
5. Language Training and Employment Services: Permanent residents looking to improve their language skills or seeking employment assistance can explore the various language training programs and employment services offered by the Canadian government and non-profit organizations.
6. Permanent Resident Responsibilities: It’s crucial for new permanent residents to be aware of their responsibilities, including maintaining residency requirements, renewing the PR Card when necessary, and complying with Canadian laws.

Conclusion:

Paying the Right of Permanent Residence Fee is the final financial step in the process of becoming a permanent resident in Canada. After the successful payment of the RPRF, individuals can look forward to the issuance of the permanent resident visa, allowing them to make their way to Canada and begin a new chapter in their lives.

Understanding the post-payment process is essential for a smooth transition and integration into Canadian society. From obtaining essential documents like the PR Card to accessing healthcare and settling into a new community, new permanent residents have a range of tasks to complete upon their arrival. By being informed and proactive, individuals can make the most of their permanent resident status and embark on a fulfilling journey in their new home.