Canadian Citizenship 2025
Complete guide to Canadian citizenship application including residency requirements, citizenship test preparation, and ceremony process. Expert RCIC guidance for naturalization.
Canadian Citizenship Requirements
All requirements you must meet to apply for Canadian citizenship
Permanent Resident Status
Must be a permanent resident of Canada with valid PR status at the time of application.
Key Details:
- Valid PR card or confirmation of status
- Not under removal order
- Not prohibited from applying
Physical Presence
Must have been physically present in Canada for at least 1,095 days (3 years) in the 5 years before applying.
Key Details:
- 1,095 days out of 5 years before application
- Time as temporary resident counts as half-time
- Maximum 365 days credit for pre-PR time
Language Proficiency
Must demonstrate adequate knowledge of English or French (CLB 4 level) if aged 18-54.
Key Details:
- CLB/NCLC 4 in speaking and listening
- Language test results or other proof
- Exemptions for age (under 18, over 54)
Knowledge of Canada
Must pass citizenship test on Canadian history, values, institutions, and symbols if aged 18-54.
Key Details:
- Written test (20 questions, 15 correct to pass)
- Based on "Discover Canada" study guide
- May include oral interview
Tax Obligations
Must have filed income taxes for at least 3 years within the 5-year period (if required under Income Tax Act).
Key Details:
- Filed taxes for 3 out of 5 years
- Only if required to file under tax law
- Provide Notice of Assessment or tax documents
No Criminal Prohibitions
Must not be prohibited from applying due to criminal history or other legal issues.
Key Details:
- No recent criminal convictions
- Not under investigation for war crimes
- Not subject to removal order
Citizenship Application Process
Step-by-step guide to applying for Canadian citizenship
Eligibility Check
1-2 weeksVerify you meet all citizenship requirements including physical presence, language, and tax obligations.
Document Preparation
2-4 weeksGather all required documents including travel history, tax documents, language proof, and identity documents.
Submit Application
1-2 weeksComplete citizenship application form and submit with all supporting documents and fees.
Application Review
12-18 monthsIRCC reviews application, verifies documents, and may request additional information.
Test & Interview
1-3 monthsTake citizenship test and attend interview with citizenship officer (if required).
Citizenship Ceremony
1-6 monthsAttend citizenship ceremony, take oath of citizenship, and receive citizenship certificate.
Citizenship Test Preparation
What you need to study for the Canadian citizenship test
Canadian History
- • Indigenous peoples and early European settlement
- • Confederation and nation building
- • Modern Canada and key historical events
Canadian Government
- • Federal, provincial, and municipal levels
- • Democratic institutions and processes
- • Rights and responsibilities of citizenship
Canadian Geography
- • Provinces, territories, and capitals
- • Major cities, regions, and landmarks
- • Natural resources and economy
Canadian Symbols & Culture
- • National symbols (flag, anthem, emblems)
- • Official languages and multiculturalism
- • Canadian values and traditions
Official Study Guide
The official "Discover Canada" study guide is available free from IRCC and covers all test topics.
Citizenship FAQ
How long do I need to be a permanent resident before applying for citizenship?
You must be physically present in Canada for at least 1,095 days (3 years) out of the 5 years immediately before your application. Time spent in Canada as a temporary resident (before becoming a PR) counts as half-time, up to a maximum of 365 days credit.
What happens if I fail the citizenship test?
If you fail the citizenship test, you'll be scheduled for a second attempt, which will be an interview with a citizenship officer. If you fail the interview, your application will be refused, but you can reapply once you meet the requirements again. There's no limit on how many times you can apply for citizenship.
Can I keep my original citizenship when I become Canadian?
Canada allows dual citizenship, so you can keep your original citizenship when you become Canadian (unless your home country doesn't allow dual citizenship). However, as a Canadian citizen, you must enter and leave Canada using your Canadian passport. Check with your home country's embassy about their dual citizenship policies.
How long does the citizenship application process take?
The current processing time for citizenship applications is approximately 12-18 months from the time IRCC receives your complete application. This includes the time for application review, test/interview scheduling, and ceremony arrangement. Processing times may vary based on your location and individual circumstances.
What are the benefits of Canadian citizenship?
Canadian citizenship provides the right to vote, run for political office, obtain a Canadian passport for easier international travel, and protection from deportation. Citizens also have access to certain jobs requiring security clearance and can pass citizenship to children born outside Canada. Unlike permanent residents, citizens have no residency obligations.
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