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Canadian Citizenship Application – A Complete Guide

Published on July 31st 2025 by Fairworld Immigration

Applying for a Canadian citizenship application is the final step in becoming a full member of Canadian society. To be eligible, you must be a permanent resident, have lived in Canada for at least 1,095 days (about three years) within the last five years, meet language requirements in English or French, and pass a citizenship test on Canadian history, values, and laws. You must also have filed your taxes, if required. Once approved, you’ll attend a citizenship ceremony and take the Oath of Citizenship. Becoming a Canadian citizen grants you the right to vote, obtain a passport, and enjoy full civic privileges.

Eligibility Criteria for Canadian Citizenship Application

Permanent Resident Status

To apply for a Canadian citizenship application, you must hold permanent resident (PR) status. Your status must not be under review for immigration concerns or fraud.

Physical Presence in Canada

You must have lived in Canada for at least 1,095 days (three years) within the five years before submitting your citizenship application.

Income Tax Filing

You are required to have filed Canadian income taxes for at least three out of the five years preceding your Canadian citizenship application.

Language Proficiency

If you are between 18 and 54 years old when applying, you must demonstrate proficiency in either English or French at Canadian Language Benchmarks (CLB) level 4 or higher. Acceptable proof includes:

  • Results from approved language tests (e.g., IELTS, CELPIP, TEF, TEFAQ)
  • Transcripts or diplomas from English/French secondary or post-secondary education
  • Proof of CLB 4+ through government-funded language programs (LINC or CLIC)

Citizenship Test

Applicants aged 18–54 must pass a written test on Canadian history, values, symbols, and institutions.

Criminal History and Prohibitions

You may be ineligible for a Canadian citizenship application if you have a criminal record, are on probation/parole, or are under a removal order.

Other Considerations

  • You cannot reapply for citizenship until the period specified in a prior revocation order has ended.
  • Children applying must be permanent residents, but some requirements may be waived.
  • Adopted children outside Canada are exempt from the physical presence rule.
Our RCIC Pavel and Mathai consulting with Fairworld Immigration clients about their Canadian citizenship application process

The Canadian Citizenship Application Process

Gather Required Documents

Collect identification, proof of PR status, language test results, tax documents, and other required materials for your Canadian citizenship application.

Complete the Application Package

Fill out the forms accurately and completely.

Pay the Application Fee

Fees must be paid online. As of 2021, adult applicants pay CAD $630; minors pay CAD $100.

Submit the Application

Send your completed Canadian citizenship application to the designated address. Use tracked mail to ensure delivery.

Acknowledgment of Receipt (AOR)

IRCC will send a confirmation once your application is received.

Prepare for the Citizenship Test

Applicants aged 18–54 must pass a 20-question test, answering at least 15 correctly.

Interview (if applicable)

You may be invited for an interview depending on your test results or application review.

Decision Notification

You will be informed whether your citizenship application is approved, delayed, or refused.

Oath of Citizenship

If approved, you will attend a ceremony to take the Oath and officially become a Canadian citizen.

Receive Citizenship Certificate

You’ll be issued a certificate confirming your new status.

Required Documents for Canadian Citizenship Application

  • Permanent Resident Card (valid and not expiring soon)
  • Travel Documents or Passports used in the last five years
  • Language Proficiency Evidence (test results, transcripts, or CLB documentation)
  • Income Tax Documents (3 years out of the last 5)
  • Minor Applicants: birth certificates, adoption records, or custody agreements

Processing Time for Citizenship Application

Processing times for a Canadian citizenship application vary depending on:

  • Completeness of the application
  • Missing or incorrect documents
  • Scheduling of tests or oath ceremonies
  • Additional requests or interviews

Typical time for a routine application (as of 2021): 12–18 months

Preparing for the Canadian Citizenship Test

The test assesses knowledge of Canada’s history, values, symbols, and institutions.

Tips for Preparation:

  • Study the “Discover Canada” guide (official IRCC resource)
  • Take online practice tests
  • Join local study groups or classes
  • Use flashcards
  • Stay updated on Canadian current events

The test includes 20 multiple-choice questions; passing score is 75%. If you fail, you may be offered a retest or interview.

Canadian Citizenship Application Costs

  • Adults (18+): CAD $630 ($530 processing + $100 right of citizenship)
  • Minors (under 18): CAD $100
  • Payment: Made online by card

Refund Policy: If IRCC doesn’t process your application, you may be refunded the processing fee. Denied applications are not refunded.

Additional Costs:

  • Legal or consultant services (if used); passing score is 75%. If you fail, you may be offered a retest or interview.
  • Language test fees
  • Translations or notarized documents
  • Postage/courier fees

Common Mistakes in Canadian Citizenship Applications

Avoid these to prevent delays or rejection:

  • Not meeting the physical presence requirement
  • Failing to update personal information (e.g., address, marital status)
  • Invalid proof of language proficiency
  • Incomplete or incorrect application forms
  • Not preparing for the citizenship test

Use a checklist to review all application components before submission.

Benefits of Canadian Citizenship

  • Voting Rights: Participate in elections and run for office
  • Canadian Passport: Access to many countries without a visa
  • Job Opportunities: Apply for positions exclusive to citizens
  • Education Support: Grants and scholarships for Canadian citizens
  • Security: Citizens cannot be deported or lose status when traveling

The Canadian citizenship application process leads to a deeper sense of belonging, protection, and civic freedom in one of the world’s most respected democracies.

For more information on how you can apply for a Work Permit, you may contact Fairworld Immigration Consulting at +1 604 902 6356 or mgn@fairworldimmigration.ca. Visit our Canadian Citizenship Application service page for more information, or explore all our services on our homepage.

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