If you are a Canadian permanent resident over the age of 18 and have lived in Canada for more than three of the last five years, you may be eligible to apply for Canadian citizenship. Citizenship offers several benefits, including the ability to participate in elections, hold a Canadian passport, and maintain dual citizenship. Here’s everything you need to know to apply.
Eligibility Overview
To become a naturalized Canadian citizen, you must meet the following requirements according to Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC):
- Be a permanent resident of Canada.
- Have lived in Canada for at least 3 out of the last 5 years (physical presence).
- Have filed your income taxes in Canada for at least three of the last five years.
- Prove your language skills in English or French.
- Pass a citizenship test.
- Take the Oath of Citizenship.
The Application Process
1. Online Application:
Most applicants can apply for Canadian citizenship online using IRCC’s web form. However, you must apply on paper if:
- You include time spent outside of Canada as a crown servant or family member of a crown servant.
- You want a representative to complete and submit your application for you.
If applying on paper, you can request an application package from the IRCC website.
2. Fees:
Fees must be paid online and include both a processing fee and the right of citizenship fee. IRCC recommends paying fees only when you are ready to submit your application. If you are submitting multiple applications, you can pay the fees either separately or together.
3. Submitting Your Application:
You must meet the eligibility requirements at least the day before you sign your application form. IRCC will return your application if they receive it more than 90 days after the date on the form. Use a postal or courier service with tracking to ensure your application is delivered safely.
Proof of Language Skills
Applicants aged 18 to 54 must provide proof of their language proficiency in English or French. IRCC defines adequate language skills as:
- Taking part in everyday conversations.
- Understanding simple instructions and directions.
- Using basic grammar.
- Knowing common words and phrases.
IRCC accepts certificates, diplomas, and standardized language tests as proof. Language skills will also be evaluated during your citizenship test and interview.
Citizenship Test
IRCC will send an invitation to schedule the test after processing your application. The test includes 20 multiple-choice or true/false questions about Canadian history, geography, economy, government, laws, and symbols. You need to answer 15 out of 20 questions correctly to pass. You have up to 30 days and three attempts to complete the test. Failing three attempts will result in a hearing with a citizenship official.
You can take the test online, in person, or via Microsoft Teams, depending on accessibility requirements. Use the official study guide, Discover Canada: The Rights and Responsibilities of Citizenship, to prepare for the test.
Citizenship Ceremony
The citizenship ceremony is the final step in the process. You will be invited to attend online or in person, depending on your situation. During the ceremony, you will:
- Take the Oath of Citizenship.
- Receive your citizenship certificate.
- Sign the Oath form.
- Sing the national anthem.
You must bring personal identification, your ceremony notice, and your permanent resident card or confirmation of permanent residence. After the ceremony, you will officially become a Canadian citizen.
Processing Times
IRCC currently advises that it takes around seven months to process citizenship applications. Exceptional cases, such as those requiring citizenship for a job or urgent travel, may be processed faster.
Prohibitions
If you have committed a crime inside or outside Canada, you may not be eligible for citizenship for a certain period. Time spent in prison or on parole does not count toward the physical presence requirement.
Ready to become a Canadian citizen? Start your application today and begin the final steps toward this life-changing achievement.