Canada
Canadian Citizenship
Overview
Becoming a Canadian citizen is a major milestone in your immigration journey. It grants you full rights and responsibilities, including the right to vote, obtain a Canadian passport, and live and work anywhere in Canada without restrictions. Canada values diversity and inclusion, and its citizenship process reflects a commitment to welcoming individuals who contribute to its society and economy.
Eligibility for Canadian Citizenship
To apply for Canadian citizenship, you must meet the following basic requirements:
- Be a permanent resident (PR) of Canada.
- Have physically lived in Canada for at least 1,095 days (3 years) during the last 5 years before applying.
- Have filed your taxes for at least 3 years within the last 5 years, if required under the Income Tax Act.
- Demonstrate adequate knowledge of English or French, if you are between 18 and 54 years old.
- Pass a citizenship test (for applicants aged 18–54), which covers Canadian history, values, institutions, and symbols.
- Not have a criminal prohibition related to immigration or citizenship that would prevent you from applying.
Will time spend in Canada before a PR count toward citizenship?
Does Canada recognize dual citizenship?
What is the citizenship test like?
Can children become Canadian citizens?
What happens after I apply?
Do I need to renew after I apply?
Will time spend in Canada before a PR count toward citizenship?
Yes, in part. If you lived in Canada as a temporary resident or protected person before becoming a permanent resident, you may be able to count each day spent in Canada during the past 5 years as a half day, up to a maximum of 365 days. This can help you reach the 1,095-day requirement faster.
Does Canada recognize dual citizenship?
Yes. Canada allows dual or multiple citizenships. You do not have to renounce your original nationality when you become a Canadian citizen. However, you should check with your country of origin to see whether it allows dual citizenship, as not all countries do.
What is the citizenship test like?
The citizenship test is a 30-minute written or oral test based on the official guide, Discover Canada. It includes 20 multiple-choice questions, and you must get 15 correct answers (75%) to pass.
Can children become Canadian citizens?
Yes. Children under 18 can become citizens if:
- One of their parents is a Canadian citizen or is applying at the same time,
- And the child is a permanent resident.
What happens after I apply?
Once you apply:
- IRCC will review your application for completeness.
- You may be asked to attend an interview or submit additional documents.
- You’ll receive a notice for the citizenship test (if required).
- If approved, you will attend a citizenship ceremony, where you’ll take the Oath of Citizenship.
Do I need to renew after I apply?
No. Canadian citizenship is permanent and does not expire. However, if you have a Canadian passport, you must renew it periodically.