Steps to Become a Canadian Citizen After Getting Permanent Residency (PR)

Becoming a Canadian citizen is a significant milestone that provides access to numerous rights and opportunities. If you are a permanent resident (PR) of Canada, this guide will walk you through the steps to apply for citizenship in an easy-to-understand format. Let’s get started!

Step 1: Ensure You Meet the Eligibility Requirements before applying.

1. Be a Permanent Resident

To apply for citizenship, you must have PR status in Canada. Ensure:

• You’re not under review for immigration or fraud reasons.
• You don’t have a removal order asking you to leave Canada.
• You’ve fulfilled any conditions related to your PR status (e.g., medical screening).

Note: A valid PR card is not required. You can apply even with an expired PR card.

2. Meet the Physical Presence Requirement

You must have lived in Canada for at least 1,095 days (3 years) within the past 5 years before signing your application.

Tips:

• Apply with more than 1,095 days to avoid any miscalculation issues.
• You may include time spent in Canada as a temporary resident* or protected person.
• Time spent outside Canada as a Crown servant or their family member may also count.

Use the physical presence calculator to confirm your eligibility.

* Each day spent in Canada as a temporary resident or protected person within the last 5 years counts as one half day when you calculate your physical presence. You can use a maximum of 365 days as a temporary resident or protected person toward your time spent in Canada. So if you worked or studied in Canada your 1 year goes to your citizenship days count.

A temporary resident is someone who is authorized to enter or stay in Canada as a:

• visitor
• student
• worker or
• temporary resident permit holder

3. File Your Taxes

You need to file income taxes in Canada for at least 3 years during the 5 years before applying. If you’re unsure about your tax filing requirements, consult a tax professional or visit the CRA website.

4. Prove Your Language Skills

If you’re between 18 and 54 years old on the day you sign your application, you must show proficiency in either English or French. This means you can:

• Participate in short, everyday conversations.
• Understand simple instructions, questions, and directions.
• Use basic grammar and vocabulary.
• show you know enough common words and phrases to answer questions and express yourself

Your language skills will be measured through:

• Certificates, diplomas, or language test results (CLB 4 or NCLC 4 levels).
• Communication with citizenship officials.
• Your performance of language level during the citizenship test, if applicable.

Language Level equivalency CLB charts based on your test results.

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Step 2: Gather and Submit Your Citizenship Application

Gather the required documents, including:

• Proof of PR status (e.g., PR card or landing document).
• Original printout of Online Physical Presence Calculation.
• Color photocopy of all pages of your passport/travel documents during your 5-year eligibility period
• Photocopies of two personal ID pieces (e.g., passport, PR card, driver’s license, or health card)
• If 18-54 years old: proof of English/French language ability (IELTS/CELPIP)
• Waiver request form for language exemption due to compassionate grounds (if applicable)
• Two identical citizenship photos
• Application fee receipt ($630.00)
• Document Checklist (CIT 0007)
• Fill out all required IMM forms.

Complete the citizenship application form and submit it along with the required documents. Double-check for accuracy to avoid delays.

Step 3: Prepare and Pass the Citizenship Test

After your application has been approved You’ll be invited to take the test after submitting your application. Make sure to review study materials, which are available online in multiple formats.

If you’re between 18 and 54 years old, you’ll need to take a citizenship test. The test covers:

• questions about
  • the rights and responsibilities of Canadian citizens
  • Canada’s history, geography, economy, government, laws and symbols
• has 20 questions that are either
  • multiple choice or
  • true or false
• is in English or French
• is 45 minutes long

You need to get at least 15 out of 20 questions right to pass the test.

You’ll be invited to take the test after submitting your application. Make sure to review study materials, which are available online in multiple formats.

Learn about the citizenship test: who needs to take it, test format, study tips, passing score, what happens after the test, and next steps. Find all details in the link!

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Step 4: Take the Oath of Citizenship

If your application is approved and you passed the citizenship test, you’ll be invited to attend a citizenship ceremony. Here, you will:

• Take the Oath of Citizenship.
• Receive your citizenship certificate.

Note: If you’re at least 14 years old, taking the oath is mandatory.

want Learn more about taking the oath of citizenship

Additional Information

Situations That May Prevent Citizenship

You may not be eligible for citizenship if you:

• Have committed a crime in or outside Canada.
• Are serving a term of imprisonment, parole, or probation.
• Are under a removal order.

It’s best to consult a lawyer if you’re unsure about your situation.

Children and Spouses

• Children under 18: Additional requirements apply.
• Spouses of Canadian citizens: Marriage to a Canadian does not grant automatic citizenship. You must meet all standard requirements.

If You Have a Canadian Parent or Grandparent

You may already be a Canadian citizen. Apply for a citizenship certificate to confirm your status.

By following these steps and ensuring you meet all requirements, you’re well on your way to becoming a proud Canadian citizen. For more detailed information or assistance, visit the IRCC website.

Good luck with your application, and welcome to Canada’s vibrant community of citizens!

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