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Canadian citizenship

Permanent residents can apply when they meet the rules, including physical presence: at least 1,095 days (3 years) in Canada during the 5 years before the date you sign your application.

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New citizens shaking hands at a citizenship ceremony in Hamilton, Ontario — Photo: Joey Coleman (Flickr) · CC BY-SA 2.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Step-by-step checklist

0 of 6 done

1. Check you can applyWhat to expect: Physical presence, taxes filed, language proof (ages 18–54) and no prohibitions. Use IRCC’s physical presence calculator.
2. Apply online or on paperWhat to expect: Online is recommended. After you submit online you get a confirmation email.
3. Acknowledgement of receipt (AOR)What to expect: An AOR letter or email means IRCC has started processing your application.
4. Citizenship test (ages 18–54)What to expect: IRCC invites you to the test after you apply. Study the official guide, Discover Canada.
5. DecisionWhat to expect: IRCC reviews your application and makes a decision. Follow updates in your IRCC account.
6. Oath at a ceremonyWhat to expect: If you are approved and 14 or older, you take the oath of citizenship at a ceremony. You become a citizen then.

Documents you usually need

Document checklist and application form
Copies of all passports and travel documents in the 5-year period
Physical presence calculation
Language proof (ages 18–54)
Two pieces of ID
Two identical citizenship photos
Fee receipt

Government fees

CAD

Adult application (18+), including right of citizenship fee

$653

Fees as listed by IRCC on 2026-10-30. Fees change; always check the official fee list. IRCC fee list ↗

After you apply

Confirmation email, then the AOR.
Test invitation (ages 18–54).
Ceremony invitation and oath.

Processing times change every week. Check today’s times on IRCC’s official tool. Check processing times ↗

Official sources:

Checked against IRCC pages on 2026-10-30.

General information only. This is not legal advice and does not check whether you are eligible. Your own checklist in your IRCC account is what counts. Last checked 2026-10-30.

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