Premier and Minister of Finance Dr. the Hon. Natalio D. Wheatley said Friday, Oct. 3, that the government will review the immigration fee schedule that took effect Oct. 1, including charges for Belonger and Resident status, and that reductions are possible following public concern raised this week.
“I’ve heard some of the cries as it pertains to the steepness of the increases,” Mr. Wheatley said at a press conference. “I’m going to review that with members of the Cabinet and members of my caucus … and see if we will have to revise those fees in any particular way.”
The changes were introduced under the Immigration and Passport (Amendment) Regulations, 2025, enacted June 27. Key adjustments include a $250 processing fee for applications for Residence and Belonger status, a $2,500 grant fee for Belonger certificates (up from $500), and a $1,500 grant fee for Certificates of Residence (up from $300). Mr. Wheatley said the schedule was designed to support the sustainability of immigration operations.
The premier added that any decision will be announced publicly. “We’ll be able to communicate that to the public,” he said, emphasizing that the increases were not intended to prevent persons from achieving Belonger status. Asked whether a reduction is on the table, he replied, “There is a possibility that it could be a reduction.”
