How to get Canadian citizenship
Numerous Canadian permanent residents, having successfully navigated the immigration process, eagerly anticipate the day they will be granted citizenship and officially sworn in as Canadian citizens. However, before reaching this significant milestone, there are a series of final steps that must be addressed and fulfilled for Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) to approve their Canadian citizenship application.
- • Residency Criteria: Aspiring citizens must furnish evidence demonstrating their residence in Canada for a minimum of three years (equivalent to 1,095 days) within the five years immediately preceding the submission of their application. It’s crucial to note that certain exceptions may apply.
- • Showcasing Language Proficiency: To attain Canadian citizenship, applicants are required to exhibit a foundational proficiency in either English or French.
- • Filing Tax Returns: Individuals applying for citizenship must have fulfilled the requirement of filing their taxes in Canada for a minimum of three years within the five years leading up to their application.
- • Passing the Citizenship Test: Individuals aged between 18 and 54 who are applying for citizenship are obligated to undergo a citizenship test. This test serves as a means to assess their understanding of Canadian rights and responsibilities.
How to apply for Canadian citizenship
The Canadian government is currently piloting an online platform designed for Canadian citizenship applications, exclusively accessible to certain applicants. Individuals who do not currently meet the eligibility criteria for online submission are required to follow the traditional paper-based application process.
For those deemed eligible, a crucial step involves passing the Canadian citizenship test. Additionally, applicants may be subject to an interview with a citizenship judge if requested by IRCC. Upon successful approval, applicants are invited to partake in a Citizenship Ceremony where they formally take the Oath of Citizenship, signifying their official attainment of Canadian citizenship.
When to apply for Canadian citizenship
To be eligible for Canadian citizenship, permanent residents are mandated to have a residence history of at least 1,095 days (or three years) within the last five years before submitting their application. Exceptions to this rule are considered on a case-by-case basis.
In conjunction with the residency requirement, permanent residents must fulfill additional minimum criteria to qualify for Canadian citizenship. Ensuring compliance with these prerequisites is crucial before embarking on the application journey, as meeting all conditions is fundamental to a successful citizenship application.
Canadian citizenship cost
The cost of obtaining Canadian citizenship is CAD 630 for adults and CAD 100 for children, for a single applicant.:
- • Processing fees: $530/adult & $100/child
- • Right of Citizenship fee: $100/adult
Can I become a citizen of Canada without first obtaining permanent residence?
Before changing from a Permanent Resident (PR) to a citizen, an individual must first immigrate to Canada and fulfill the citizenship requirements.
Can a person lose their Canadian citizenship?
The Canadian nationality is perpetual. Canadian citizenship does not require renewal, in contrast to temporary residency. To keep their status, Canadian citizens are also exempt from the minimum residency requirements.
Should I submit a citizenship application as soon as I’m qualified?
No. Permanent residents are free to delay applying for citizenship for as long as they like, provided they fulfill the eligibility requirements. There are no application windows or deadlines, in contrast to certain permanent resident programs.
What occurs when the citizenship application is granted?
After being accepted, candidates will take the Oath of Citizenship and become lawful citizens of Canada at a Citizenship Ceremony.
If my citizenship application is rejected, may I appeal?
Applicants can challenge a decision that denies their citizenship application. The IRCC website provides details on the appeals procedure.