How to Apply for Canadian Citizenship – Step-by-Step Guide (2025)
✅ Step 1: Check Your Eligibility
You must meet all the following criteria:
Be a permanent resident of Canada
Lived in Canada for at least 1,095 days (3 years) in the last 5 years
Filed income taxes (if required) for at least 3 years
Pass a Canadian citizenship test (age 18–54)
Prove language skills in English or French (if age 18–54)
No criminal history that prohibits citizenship
✅ Step 2: Gather Required Documents
You’ll need:
PR card (even if expired)
Travel documents (passports, visas, entry/exit records)
Language proof (CELPIP, IELTS, etc.)
Tax documents (Notice of Assessment)
ID proofs (driver’s license, health card, etc.)
Photographs (as per specifications)
✅ Step 3: Complete the Application Form
Use the latest version of the Canadian Citizenship Application Form [CIT 0002] available here:
🔗 https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/application/application-forms-guides/application-canadian-citizenship-adults.html
✅ Step 4: Pay the Application Fee
As of 2025:
Adult (18 and over): $630 CAD
Minor (under 18): $100 CAD
Pay online here:
🔗 https://eservices.cic.gc.ca/epay/
✅ Step 5: Submit Your Application
Send your completed form and documents by mail to the IRCC address listed in the guide.
✅ Step 6: Take the Citizenship Test & Interview (if required)
You’ll be notified about the test date and location
Test covers Canadian history, values, laws, and symbols
Interview may follow on the same day
✅ Step 7: Wait for the Decision
If approved, you’ll receive:
Oath ceremony invitation
Instructions for final steps
✅ Step 8: Attend the Oath Ceremony
Attend in person or virtually
Take the Oath of Citizenship
Receive your Canadian Citizenship Certificate
Canadian Citizenship – FAQ for Applicants
❓1. Who is eligible to apply for Canadian citizenship?
To be eligible, you must:
Be a permanent resident
Have lived in Canada for at least 1,095 days in the past 5 years
Filed taxes (if required) for 3 years
Pass the citizenship test (ages 18–54)
Meet language requirements (English or French)
❓2. What documents are required to apply?
Key documents include:
PR card or landing documents
Passport/travel documents
Language test results
Tax returns (Notice of Assessment)
Photo as per IRCC specifications
ID (e.g., health card, driver’s license)
❓3. What is the cost of applying for Canadian citizenship?
Adults (18+): $630 CAD
Minors (under 18): $100 CAD
Fees must be paid online through the official IRCC payment portal.
❓4. Do I need to take a citizenship test?
Yes, if you’re between 18 and 54 years old. The test covers:
Canadian history
Government
Symbols
Laws and rights
Responsibilities of citizenship
❓5. Can I apply for citizenship online?
As of now, most applications are submitted by mail, but IRCC is expanding online applications for some eligible applicants. Always check the official IRCC website for updates.
❓6. How long does the process take?
It usually takes 12 to 18 months, depending on case volume and completeness of your application.
❓7. What happens at the oath ceremony?
You will:
Swear or affirm the Oath of Citizenship
Receive your Canadian Citizenship Certificate
This marks the final step in becoming a Canadian citizen.
❓8. Can I keep dual citizenship with my home country?
Canada allows dual citizenship, but check with your home country—some may not permit it.