Becoming a Canadian citizen is the final step in the immigration journey. It grants individuals the right to vote, obtain a Canadian passport, and access full social benefits. To qualify, applicants must meet residency, language, and knowledge requirements set by Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
Applicants must have physically lived in Canada for at least 1,095 days (3 years) in the past 5 years before applying. They also need to demonstrate basic proficiency in English or French and pass a citizenship test covering Canada’s history, values, institutions, and rights.
Once approved, applicants attend a citizenship ceremony where they take the Oath of Citizenship, officially becoming Canadian citizens.
Process to Obtain Canadian Citizenship
✅ Step 1: Check Eligibility
- Must be a permanent resident (PR) of Canada.
- Have lived in Canada for at least 3 out of the last 5 years (1,095 days).
- Meet income tax filing requirements for at least 3 years (if applicable).
- Demonstrate language proficiency (English/French) if between 18–54 years old.
✅ Step 2: Gather Required Documents
- PR card or confirmation of PR status.
- Proof of physical presence in Canada (travel history, residency calculator).
- Language test results (if applicable).
- ID documents (passport, driver’s license, etc.).
✅ Step 3: Submit Application & Pay Fees
- Apply online or by paper through IRCC’s official website.
- Pay the citizenship application fee ($630 for adults, $100 for minors).
✅ Step 4: Take the Citizenship Test & Interview
- If aged 18–54, take a 20-question multiple-choice test on Canada’s history, geography, laws, and government.
- Attend an interview (if required) with an IRCC officer.
✅ Step 5: Attend Citizenship Ceremony & Take Oath
- If approved, attend a citizenship ceremony within 3–6 months.
- Take the Oath of Citizenship, receive your Citizenship Certificate, and officially become a Canadian citizen!
Necessary Documents for Citizenship Application
✅ Valid PR card or COPR (Confirmation of Permanent Residence)
✅ Proof of residency (travel history, lease agreements, tax records)
✅ Language proficiency proof (if required)
✅ Identification documents (passport, birth certificate, driver’s license)
✅ Citizenship application form & payment receipt
FAQ Related To Citizenship Application
Permanent residents who have lived in Canada for at least 3 years (1,095 days) in the past 5 years, meet language requirements, and have no criminal issues can apply.
If you are 18–54 years old, you must pass a citizenship test on Canada’s history, laws, values, and government. Younger and older applicants are exempt.
The processing time varies but generally takes 12–18 months, including application review, citizenship test, interview (if needed), and ceremony.
Yes, but you must have spent at least 1,095 days (3 years) physically in Canada in the past 5 years before applying.
If you fail the first attempt, you will get a second chance. If you fail again, you may need to attend an interview with an IRCC officer.
Yes! Canada allows dual citizenship, but you should check if your home country permits it before applying.
Yes! Children under 18 can apply, but at least one parent must be a Canadian citizen or applying for citizenship at the same time.
As soon as you receive your Citizenship Certificate at the oath ceremony, you can apply for a Canadian passport right away!
