How do I get Canadian citizenship?

In order to be eligible for Canadian citizenship, you must:

• Be a permanent resident
• Filed your taxes for at least three years
• Pass a citizenship test
• Prove your language skills in English or French
• Not have a criminal record

There are several steps involved in applying for Canadian citizenship:

• Calculate your physical presence in Canada: You must have been physically present in Canada for at least 1,095 days (three years).
• Download and fill out an application package: Be sure to fill out the form correctly, include two certified citizenship photos and all supporting documents, such as immigration documents, proof of language, photo ID.
• Pay application fees: The fees for each adult citizenship application are $630 CAD and each minor application (less than 18-years-old) is $100 CAD.
• Submit your application: Send your completed application package by mail or courier as soon as possible.
• Take a citizenship test: Once your application has been reviewed, you may be invited to take a citizenship test within weeks after your acknowledgement of receipt (AOR) letter. The citizenship test is based on the official citizenship study guide, Discover Canada: The Rights and Responsibilities of Citizenship. You can take the test in English or French.
• Attend an interview: Immediately after your test, a citizen official will meet with you and check your language skills, verify your application and original documents and ask questions they may have.
• Take the Oath of Citizenship: The citizenship ceremony is the final step to becoming Canadian and usually takes place within three months after your test.