Becoming a Canadian Citizen

It is important to know that some citizenship requirements, such as physical presence, language and knowledge changed on October 11, 2017. In order to be eligible to apply for Canadian citizenship applicants must meet all conditions:

Your Permanent Resident Status in Canada

A person who would like to apply for citizenship must have permanent resident status in Canada, which must not be in question; this means they must not:

• be under review for immigration or fraud reasons;
• have certain unfulfilled conditions related to the PR status;
• be under a removal order.

How long have you lived in Canada?

You must have been physically present in Canada for at least 1095 days during the five year period before the date you sign the application.

You may be illegible to use some of your time spent in Canada as a visitor, student, worker, temporary resident permit holder or protected person. Each day spent physically in Canada as a temporary resident or protected person before becoming a permanent resident within the last 5 years will count as one half day, with a maximum of 365 days, towards your physical presence. There are some exceptions, please contact us to learn more.

Did you file your Income Tax?

If required under the Income Tax Act, applicants must meet their personal income tax filing obligations in three tax years that are within the five years before the date they apply.

What are your language skills?

To become a Canadian citizen, you must show that you can speak one of the official languages: English or French. If you are 18 to 54 years old, you must submit proof that demonstrates you can speak and listen in English or French.

How well do you know Canada?

To become a Canadian citizen you will need to take a test in English or French to meet the knowledge requirements for citizenship.

Other Conditions

If you have committed a crime in or outside Canada, you may not be eligible to become a Canadian citizen for a period of time.

Please contact us to find out more about becoming a Canadian citizen.