Citizenship is a legal status that entitles you to participate in Canadian society. You can get Canadian citizenship through birth, descent, or naturalization.
The application process for Canadian citizenship can be complicated, but it’s worth the effort if you want to be part of Canada’s democratic society. This article will give you a clear picture of what you need to know about the process, including what it takes to apply and what you’ll need to do once you get approved.
Requirements
Canadian citizenship is a legal status that allows you to live and work in Canada. Citizenship is usually granted to immigrants who have lived in Canada for a long time and meet certain requirements.
To become a Canadian citizen, you need to be a permanent resident in Canada (PR). You also need to have lived in Canada for three out of the last five years.
You must also pass a test, which is in English or French. It is 30 minutes long and includes 20 multiple-choice questions about the rights and responsibilities of Canadians, Canada’s history, geography, government, economy and laws.
Once you pass the test, you can apply for citizenship and attend a ceremony to recite the Oath of Allegiance. You will also get a certificate of citizenship.
Application process
The Canadian citizenship application process is an important step for anyone who wants to live in Canada permanently. It involves providing certain documents and forms and paying fees online.
In addition, you must show that you have been physically present in Canada for at least 1,095 days during the five years before the date on which you sign your application. This requirement applies to adults and some minors (age 14-17).
The total amount of time you must have lived in Canada is calculated by subtracting every day you were outside Canada as a temporary resident or protected person (e.g., refugee) from the five-year eligibility period. This can be done using Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada’s Physical Presence Calculator. You can also use a travel journal to help you record your trips abroad.
Test
If you are over the age of 18 or older and applying for Canadian citizenship, you will likely be required to take a test. The test is designed to test your knowledge of the country’s history, government, values and responsibilities as a citizen.
The test will usually consist of 20 questions that are written in English or French. If you don’t pass the first time, IRCC will invite you to retake the exam.
Many new citizens find that studying for the citizenship test online is one of the most effective ways to improve their chances of passing. Using our free practice tests and study guides, you can significantly boost your test pass rate.
Interview
Applicants for Canadian citizenship must pass an interview before being approved. They are used to verify your personal details, verify your language skills and determine whether you meet the requirements for citizenship.
If you apply for Canadian citizenship under Express Entry, you will not need to attend an interview. However, if you are applying for family sponsorship or a skilled worker, an interview is sometimes required to check that your relationship is genuine.
During the interview, an officer from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) or the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) may ask you questions related to your application. They will also ask you about your reasons for moving to Canada and any criminal history.
Ceremony
A citizenship ceremony is a formal event where a new Canadian citizen takes the Oath of Citizenship. During this ceremony, they receive their certificate of citizenship and reaffirm their commitment to Canada.
IRCC has been encouraging community groups to host citizenship ceremonies for newcomers to Canada and local elected officials to partner with us in this effort. In doing so, we are helping to build a more inclusive and welcoming society that is rooted in the values of respect for the law, democracy, participation in local and national affairs, and intergroup understanding.
Currently, new Canadians are required to attend in-person or virtual ceremonies where they take the Oath of Citizenship before a citizenship judge. The government is considering changing the regulations to allow new citizens to swear or affirm their oath by other means, such as by internet or video.