Requirements for Canadian Citizenship

PRs must meet a specific set of requirements to be deemed eligible to apply for citizenship. Among other requirements, applicants will need to show proof of having lived in Canada for three years (1,095 days) out of the five years that precede their signed application.

 

Applying for Citizenship

To be eligible to become a Canadian citizen, you must:

• be a PR

• have lived in Canada for 3 out of the last 5 years

• have filed your taxes, if you need to

• pass a test on your rights, responsibilities, and knowledge of Canada

• prove your language skills

 

There are also situations that can prevent you from becoming a Canadian citizen.

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There are additional or different requirements if you are:

• applying for a minor (under age 18)

• a Canadian applying for your adopted child born outside Canada

• a current or former Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) member applying under the fast-track process

• a past Canadian citizen who want your Canadian citizenship back (including current and former CAF members)

 

Spouses of Canadian citizens

You don’t automatically become a citizen when you marry a Canadian.

If you’re the spouse of a Canadian citizen, you must meet the same requirements listed above (no exception).

 

Children and grandchildren of Canadian citizens

If you have a Canadian parent or grandparent, you may be a Canadian citizen.

• See if you may be a Canadian citizen

• To find out for sure, apply for a Canadian citizenship certificate

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Dual Citizenship

As Canada recognizes dual citizenship, you will not be required to give up your natural citizenship once your application has been approved by IRCC. 

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