Citizenship Immigration Canada: A Comprehensive Guide

Canada has been consistently ranking among the top ten countries for immigrants to settle in. The country is ever-welcoming towards the immigrant population and offering them the status of Permanent Residents (PRs). Canada also facilitates citizenship immigration by allowing eligible PR holders to become Canadian citizens. Canadian Citizenship is offered to eligible individuals who have met the legal requirements to be a citizen. Citizenship in Canada can be acquired either by birth or by naturalization.

Citizenship by birth: Children born in Canada with at least one Canadian parent become Canadian citizens by birth.

Citizens by naturalization: Legal immigrants who migrate to Canada and comply with all the requirements can acquire Canadian Citizenship by naturalization.

Immigrants look forward to gaining Citizenship in Canada as it offers several benefits to the holder. The following are the benefits of Canadian Citizenship:

• Settle in Canada permanently
• Be employed in government or high-security job roles
• Right to vote
• Form or run a political party
• Get dual Citizenship
• Access to Canadian passport
• Travel visa-free to 185 countries

 

Canadian Citizenship Requirements

You would be eligible to become a Canadian citizen if you:

• Are a permanent resident
• Have lived in Canada for a minimum of 3 years out of the last 5 years
• Have completed your tax payments (if applicable)
• Have cleared the citizenship test
• Have zero criminal records
• Can take the Oath of Citizenship
• Are aware of the rights and responsibilities of being a Canadian citizen
• Have language proficiency in English or French

There might be additional requirements depending on the individual situation. The additional requirements may be applicable if you are a:

• Parent or guardian applying for a minor
• Citizen of Canada applying for your adopted child born outside Canada
• Former or present Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) members applying under a fast-track process
• Former Canadian citizen and want your Citizenship back

 

Residency requirements for Canadian Citizenship

Canadian PR holders applying for Citizenship in Canada must meet the residency requirements specified by the IRCC. Before applying, Canadian citizenship applicants must have been physically present in Canada for a minimum of 1095 days or 3 years in the last 5 years. However, the IRCC allows certain exceptions when the time spent outside Canada or the time spent within Canada before becoming a PR holder also counts towards the residency requirement for Canadian Citizenship.

The following are the exceptions allowed for citizenship applications:

• You are staying in Canada as a legal “temporary resident” or a “protected person”
• You are employed with the Canadian Armed Forces or a provincial public service and offer services outside of Canada.

Immigrants are required to meet residency requirements even to maintain their status as permanent residents. Canada PR holders must reside in Canada for at least 730 days over the last 5 years. PR holders who have met the 730-day residence are eligible to apply for Citizenship in Canada. Canada PR holders are allowed to enter and leave Canada at any time with a valid PR visa. However, certain exceptions are permitted when the time spent outside Canada also counts towards the residency requirement for PR holders.

The following are the exceptions allowed for permanent residents of Canada:

• You are sent outside of Canada for work purposes by a Canadian employer and will come back within a few months to resume employment in the country
• You are accompanying your parent, spouse, or partner who is sent outside of Canada for work purposes by a Canadian employer and will come back within a few months to resume employment in the country.
• Your parent, spouse, or common-law partner is a citizen of Canada, and you live outside of Canada with them.

Along with meeting residential requirements, immigrants must also be required to file taxes in Canada. Citizenship applicants may be required to file taxes for a minimum of 3 years during the 5 years before your application date. Filing tax requirements may vary based on your stay in Canada. PR holders willing to apply for Canadian Citizenship must have filed income taxes completely or partially in 3 tax years within the 5 years prior to their citizenship application date.

 

Language requirements for Canadian Citizenship

Canadian citizenship applicants must demonstrate proficiency in either English or French to be eligible. According to the guidelines provided by IRCC, "adequate knowledge of either of its official languages" could be proved if the candidate can:

• Engage in day-to-day conversation on common topics
• Comprehend simple questions and instructions
• Can form simple sentences or questions  in either English or French
• Have a basic knowledge of grammar

Candidates aged under 18 – 54 years must submit proof of language proficiency along with their citizenship application.

The following are the common language proficiency test results that can be submitted to prove your language proficiency for Canadian Citizenship:

• Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program (CELPIP) General Test: CELPIP-G test; OR, CELPIP General LS (listening & speaking) test
• International English Language Testing System (IELTS) General Training test (NOT the academic test)
• TEF (Test D’Evaluation de Francais)

Candidates will have to appear for an interview with an immigration officer, who will evaluate their verbal ability.

 

Step-by-step process to apply for Canada citizenship

The steps to apply for Canadian Citizenship are listed below:

Step 1: Check if you are eligible

As a Canada PR holder, you would be eligible for Canadian Citizenship if you:

• Have completed more than 1095 days of legal residence in the last 5 years
• Have filed personal income taxes for a minimum of 3 years within the last 5 years
• Have “adequate knowledge” of either French or English
• Have passed the citizenship test
• Are not prohibited to enter Canada 
• Are not under a removal order

Step 2: Evaluate how long you have been in Canada

You will be required to provide the count of time of physical presence in Canada. The IRCC provides an online calculator to help candidates calculate how long they have been in Canada. The printout of the results has to be submitted along with your citizenship application form. Errors in calculation can lead to delays or even rejection of your application.

Step 3: Arrange all the documents required

The following documents must be submitted along with your citizenship application form:

• Print out of your Online Physical Presence Calculation results (CIT 0407)
• Travel documents demonstrating your personal details as well as travel history
• Documents to prove your identity and civil status
• Driving license (if available)
• Health insurance details
• Senior citizen identification card (if applicable)
• Documents to demonstrate your foreign identity, such as a passport
• Educational qualification documents
• Language proficiency test results
• Medical test results
• Police clearance certificate
• Copy of Canadian citizenship test results
• Fee payment receipt

Note: All documents provided must be in either French or English

Step 4: Fill out your application form

You can fill out the Canadian citizenship application form offline or online from the official website of IRCC. The form will require you to provide answers to certain questions concerning your personal details. The form can be saved and submitted after answering all the questions.

Step 5: Complete the fee payment

Once you have completed filling the application form, you must proceed towards fee payment option. The table below has the fees charged by IRCC for Canadian citizenship applicants:

 

Age of applicant	Amount to be paid (in CAD)
Over 18 years (adult)	$630
Below 18 years (minor)	$100

The receipt of fee payment must be downloaded and saved for further reference.

Step 6: Submit your application

You can submit your completed application form along with the documents required in the official IRCC website. Offline applications must be sent via postal or courier service to the IRCC office.

 

Cost and processing time

IRCC charges an application fee of CAD 630 for applicants above 18 years and CAD 100 for minors. The table below has the total breakdown of the application fee charged for citizenship applications:

Type of fee	Amount to be paid (in CAD)
Citizenship certificate (proof of Citizenship)	$75
Search for your record of Citizenship	$75
Resume your Citizenship (aged over 18 years)	$530
Resume your Citizenship ( under 18 years )	$100
Renounce your Citizenship	$100
Right of Citizenship	$100

Citizenship applications are usually processed within 3 months starting from the date of application.

 

Overview of the Canadian Citizenship Test

The Canadian citizenship test is a written or oral test that demonstrates applicants' eligibility to be Canadian citizens. The IRCC assesses the candidates' knowledge of Canadian history, geography, law, government, economy, and the rights and responsibilities of a Canadian citizen.

The test helps the candidate understand and learn more about the country they are a citizen of. It also helps the Canadian authorities to educate naturalised citizens about the rights and responsibilities they have in Canada which further facilitates their integration in the Canadian society.

 

Canadian citizenship Test

Citizenship applicants in the 18- to 54-year-old range are required to take the Canadian Citizenship test to prove their eligibility. Candidates aged above 55 may not be asked to write the citizenship test but can be called for an interview with the IRCC. Minors are not required to appear for a test or an interview.

IRCC conducts the citizenship test which is a 30 to 45 minute multiple choice test consisting of 20 questions. Candidates who are not fluent in English or French may be asked to appear for a 30-90 minute interview or an oral test. Test takers may expect questions based on the following topics:

• The duties, rights, and liberties of Canadian citizens
• Canadian society and culture
• Canadian History
• Canadian geography (physical and political)
• Canadian political system
• Branches and subdivisions of the Canadian government
• Canadian monarchy
• Canadian symbols

Note: Candidates scoring above 75% can qualify the test.  

 

When and how to take the test

The online citizenship test can be taken during the 30-day period mentioned on your invitation to take the test. Invitations for the test are sent via mail after you accept the Acknowledgement of Receipt (AOR) mail. Once an ITA is issued, you will have up to 3 chances to appear for the test during this 30-day period.

The process of taking the test can vary based on the test format. Online test can be taken after you have received your invitation. It is advised to read the test tutorial thoroughly and arrange all that is needed for the test such as required identifications, proper location to take the test (for in-person tests) and compatible devices or browsers.

The IRCC has an official study guide called "Discover Canada: The Rights and Responsibilities of Citizenship" which can be used to prepare for the test. The guide is available on the official website and can be read online, downloaded as an e-book or PDF, listened to as an MP3 version, or ordered as a paper copy.

 

Canadian Citizenship Ceremony

The process of acquiring Citizenship in Canada ends with taking the oath of Citizenship at a Citizenship ceremony. The Immigration, Refugees Citizenship Canada (IRCC) holds citizenship ceremonies to officially welcome naturalized citizens to become a part of Canadian society. Citizenship ceremonies are usually held across the country throughout the year.

The following events comprise the Canadian Citizenship Ceremony:

• Taking the Oath of Citizenship
• Getting the Citizenship certificate
• Signing the Oath or Affirmation of Citizenship form
• Singing the Canadian national anthem

IRCC holds citizenship ceremonies to commemorate citizens' commitment to their new country and the country's commitment towards them in return. Canada holds four types of citizenship ceremonies to welcome new citizens in Canada. They are:

• Standard ceremonies: These are held in a ceremony room at any IRCC office or an official venue available locally.
• Private ceremonies: These are held privately for a specific individual or family.
• Enhanced ceremonies: These are a type of standard ceremonies held with an enhanced celebration to welcome special guests or high ranking officials.
• Reaffirmation ceremonies: These are official occasions where Canadian patriots reaffirm the oath of Citizenship to express their dedication and love towards Canada.

 

Oath of Citizenship

Citizens of Canada are bound to take the Oath of Citizenship under which citizens swear or affirm to be faithful to the laws and culture of Canada. Citizens above 14 years are required to attend the citizenship ceremony and take the Oath of Citizenship. It is not mandatory for citizens below 14 years to attend citizenship ceremonies, but they are welcome to. Parents of citizens aged less than 14 years can collect the citizenship certificates on their behalf.

 

Receiving the Citizenship certificate

The IRCC issues the citizenship certificate which is a document to prove your Canadian certificate. This can be used to access various benefits and services the Canadian government offers. Citizens can collect their certificates after taking the oath of Citizenship. Citizens are given the choice to opt for an e-certificate or paper certificate.

Note: IRCC has stopped issuing Citizenship Cards. Citizens who want to update or replace their citizenship cards will receive a citizenship Certificate from IRCC.

 

Documents required for the Citizenship Ceremony

The following are the documents to be brought while attending your Citizenship Ceremony:

• The ceremony notice sent to you
• An attested copy of the Permission Release and Consent form
• Your Permanent Residence card (even if it is expired) or Confirmation of Permanent Residence
• Documents to prove your identity (at least two types)
• All travel documents mentioned in your application form

 

Rights and Responsibilities of Canadian Citizens

Canada bestows certain rights and responsibilities on its citizens, which have come down to the country through shared traditions, years of history, values, and identity. These rights and responsibilities are bound by the law of the land passed by the Canadian parliament and the provincial legislatures. The country offers an equal status to naturalized Canadian citizens and citizens by birth. Thus, all Canadian citizens are offered the same rights and responsibilities, regardless of the process of acquiring Citizenship in Canada.

The great Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms offers the following rights to every Canadian citizen:

• Freedom of religion and conscience
• Freedom of thought, belief, expression, and opinion
• Freedom of speech and the press
• Freedom of peaceful assembly
• Freedom of association

Along with the fundamental rights listed above, Canada also offers the following additional rights to its citizens:

• Mobility rights: Canadian citizens have the right to work and live anywhere in Canada. They can enter and leave the country according to their wish and convenience and can even apply for a Canadian passport.  
• Voting Rights:  Canadian citizens have the right to participate in all types of elections held in Canada. Citizens are free to form or run a political party for both federal and provincial elections.  
• Official Language Rights: English and French are the two official languages of Canada. Both languages have equal status in Canada, and citizens are free to use any of the two languages for official purposes.
• Minority language Educational rights: Children born to parents who speak the minority official language of Canada have the right to receive primary and secondary education in that language in Canadian schools.
• Multiculturalism: The Canadian government is pledge-bound to recognize and preserve the multicultural heritage of its Citizens. Naturalized Canadian citizens can now retain their original Citizenship along with holding Canadian Citizenship.
• Aboriginal People’s Rights: The Canadian government assures citizens that the rights guaranteed in the charter will not affect any other rights, treaties, or liberties of Aboriginal peoples.

 

Canadian Citizenship Responsibilities

Canadian citizens must shoulder the following responsibilities:

• Obey the law of the land: Rule of law is one of the founding principles of Canada. The law of the land is above every individual as well as the government. Citizens of Canada should be obedient and respectful towards the rule of law.
• Take responsibility for yourself and your family: Canada values self-respect, personal dignity, and shouldering responsibility for one's family. Canadian citizens are expected to work hard as per their abilities and take care of their families in Canada.
• Serve on a jury: In some cases, the Canadian jurisdiction might call you to serve on a jury if eligible. It is a privilege that facilitates the smooth working of the Canadian justice system. Citizens chosen to serve on a jury must do so as impartial and unbiased persons, prioritizing the nation's welfare above personal gains.
• Exercise your right to vote: Canadian citizens must exercise their right to vote by participating in the federal and provincial elections held in the country. Voting rights are an important responsibility of all citizens across the globe. 
• Help others in the community: Volunteering in Canada is a social responsibility that has become quite a part of Canadian life.   People in Canada often volunteer freely for events and occasions. Even children are encouraged to volunteer for events as per their abilities.
• Protect and enjoy the Canadian environment and heritage: Every Canadian citizen must pledge to protect the environment, natural resources, and the national heritage of Canada so as to pass on the best of the country to future generations.

 

Canadian Citizenship for Children

According to the Canadian Citizenship Act of 1946, children born in Canada have the automatic right to Canadian Citizenship. Regardless of the nationality or immigration status of the parents, children born within Canada will become Canadian citizens along with all the rights and benefits. However, children born to foreign diplomats in Canada are exceptions to this law, and they do not acquire Citizenship by birth. Orphaned or abandoned children under the age of seven years are assumed to be born within Canada. They are given citizenship status if no contrary evidence is found within seven years of their discovery.

Canada also offers Citizenship by descent, under which first-generation children born to one or both Citizens of Canada can get Citizenship even if they were born outside the country. The second or later generation of children born to one or both Canadian citizens could get citizenship rights even if they were born outside Canada only if the Canadian citizens:

• served under Canadian armed forces
• were employed in the public service of a Canadian province or territory
• worked for the federal public administration

However, according to the Bill C-71, adopted children of Canadian parents who are born outside of Canada will directly qualify for Canadian Citizenship. The immigration policies of Canada are being updated to increase inclusivity and strengthen the value of Citizenship in Canada.

 

Special Considerations

Certain conditions might make you ineligible to become a Canadian citizen. Under the Canadian Citizenship Act, you would be ineligible for a citizenship application if you are in Canada for the following reasons:

• on probation
• on parole
• serving a term of imprisonment
• charged with a crime
• committed a crime against humanity

You may also be ineligible for Canadian Citizenship if a removal order has been issued against you. However, the Canadian government can consider your application under certain circumstances. You must wait or inform IRCC if any one of the conditions stated above is applicable to you.

 

Dual Citizenship

Canada allows its citizens to hold dual Citizenship, which is in keeping with its welcoming nature. People who have acquired Canadian Citizenship by birth can also obtain Citizenship in another country without losing their Canadian Citizenship. However, you can hold dual Citizenship if both countries approve of dual citizenship policies. Besides Canada, the following are the countries that allow dual Citizenship:

• Albania
• Australia
• Barbados
• Bangladesh
• Belgium
• Bulgaria
• Chile
• Costa Rica
• Croatia
• Cyprus;
• Czech Republic
• Denmark
• Dominican Republic
• Egypt
• Finland
• France
• Germany
• Greece
• Hungary
• Iceland
• Ireland
• Israel
• Italy
• Jamaica
• Kosovo
• Latvia
• Malta
• Mexico
• Nigeria
• Pakistan
• Panama
• Peru
• Philippines
• Portugal
• Romania
• St Kitts & Nevis
• Serbia
• Slovenia
• South Africa
• South Korea
• Spain
• Sweden
• Switzerland
• Syria
• Turkey
• United Kingdom
• United States, and
• Venezuela

 

Impact of a criminal record

 A person with a criminal record might be held inadmissible to Canada as per the inadmissibility rules. It may prevent you from acquiring citizenship status and can also prevent you from sponsoring someone to Canada. The country holds you accountable for crimes committed inside or outside Canada.

The IRCC will bar you from entering or sponsoring anyone in Canada if you have committed one or more than one crime mentioned below:

• Theft
• Dangerous driving
• A crime that has caused physical harm to any individual
• War crimes
• Crimes against humanity
• Human rights violation

However, there are ways via which you can become a citizen of Canada even if you have a criminal record. If you are charged with one or more crimes listed above, you, must opt for a suspension order from your criminal record or apply for criminal rehabilitation.

 

Proving Canadian Citizenship for those born outside Canada

Children born to one or both parents who are Canadian citizens can acquire Citizenship even if they are born outside Canada. They are not required to register their birth in Canada. However, they must apply for a Canadian citizenship certificate and collect them from IRCC to prove their Canadian Citizenship.

Documents to prove Canadian Citizenship include:

• Citizenship certificate (e-certificates)
• Citizenship cards
• Birth certificate including the name of parents and the child

 

How can Y-Axis help in getting Canadian Citizenship?

As the world's No. 1 overseas immigration consultancy, Y-Axis has provided unbiased and personalized immigration assistance to all its clients. Our team of visa and immigration experts will assist you with the following:

• Arranging the immigration document checklist
• Filling out application forms
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• Getting your updates and follow-ups
• Informing you about the latest immigration updates