Citizenship Application

Similar to applying for permanent residence, those wishing to become a Canadian citizen must first begin by submitting an application to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). Applicants who meet the eligibility requirements will then be asked to sit and pass the citizenship test. IRCC will provide citizen applicants with a study guide to help them achieve a passing grade on the 30 minute test. Applicants under the age of 18 will not be required to take the test.

In order to be admitted to the exam room, citizen applicants will be required to present themselves with any relevant (original) documentation pertaining to their permanent residence in Canada, immigration documents, photo identification, and passport. Photocopies will not be accepted. Those wishing to obtain to Canadian citizenship must also meet the minimum language requirements in order to be eligible, and most provide either:

• A transcript or diploma from post-secondary studies in English or French;
• Language test results from an approved testing agency; or
• Proof of achievement for the Canadian Level Benchmark 4 or higher.

Some applicants may also be asked to undergo an interview before a citizenship judge. Citizenship applicants who successfully meet all eligibility requirements and pass all tests (and interview, if requested) are required to attend a citizenship ceremony where they will receive their certificate of Canadian citizenship and become official Canadian citizens.

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