Eligibility Requirements
Physical Presence
Must be physically present in Canada for at least 1,095 days (3 years) out of the 5 years before applying. Days as a temporary resident before getting PR count as half-days (max 365 half-days).
Permanent Resident Status
Must be a Canadian permanent resident and not under a removal order. PR card must be valid or you must have a valid PRTD.
Language Ability
Adults aged 18–54 must demonstrate CLB 4 or higher in English or French through IELTS, CELPIP, TEF/TCF, or evidence of education in English or French.
Citizenship Test
Adults aged 18–54 must pass a 30-question multiple choice test on Canadian history, values, and institutions. Passing score: 75% (22/30). Study guide: "Discover Canada."
Income Tax Filing
Must have filed Canadian tax returns for at least 3 of the 5 tax years in the calculation window, if required by the Income Tax Act.
Not Prohibited
Must not be under investigation, charged with, or convicted of an indictable offence or terrorism-related offence. Must not be serving a prison term.
Physical Presence Counting Rules
- Every day in Canada as a permanent resident = 1 day
- Every day in Canada as a temporary resident (before PR) = ½ day (max 365 half-days = 182.5 full days)
- Time outside Canada does not count — even for work or family emergencies
- The 5-year window starts 5 years before the date you sign your application
Application Process
Fees
| Applicant Type | Fee |
|---|---|
| Adult (18 or older) | $630 |
| Minor (under 18) | $100 |
| Biometrics (if required) | $85 |
Benefits of Canadian Citizenship
- Canadian passport — Visa-free or on-arrival access to 185+ countries
- Full voting rights — Vote in federal, provincial, and municipal elections
- Run for office — Eligible for political office at any level
- No travel restrictions — Live and work abroad without risking PR status
- Pass citizenship to children — Children born abroad can become citizens by descent (first generation)
- Access government positions — Some federal security-cleared roles require citizenship
- No renewal — Citizenship is permanent; no PR card to renew
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. Canada permits dual and multiple citizenship. You do not need to renounce your original citizenship to become a Canadian citizen. However, your country of origin may have its own rules — some countries do not permit dual citizenship. Check with your home country's embassy.
Children can be included in a parent's citizenship application (fee: $100 per child). Children under 18 do not need to write the citizenship test or meet the language requirement. If both parents are applying, the children can be included on either application.
You can retake the test up to three times. If you fail three times, a citizenship officer will interview you. The officer may grant citizenship based on the interview, or refuse the application. Retesting is at no additional charge.
Time outside Canada on a temporary basis (vacation, personal travel) does not count toward your 1,095 days. However, if you were accompanying a Canadian citizen spouse or were employed by a Canadian company and temporarily assigned abroad, special rules may allow some overseas time to count. Consult an RCIC to assess your specific situation.
Ready to Become a Canadian Citizen?
David Johl, RCIC R519520, helps permanent residents confirm eligibility, prepare complete citizenship applications, and navigate any complications.
💬 WhatsApp Free ConsultationThis page is for general information only and does not constitute immigration legal advice. Program rules change frequently — always verify details at canada.ca. For personalised guidance, consult a Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant (RCIC). Mirus Immigration · David Johl · RCIC R519520.