Citizenship

Canadians are proud to hold one of the most prized citizenships in the world.  Every year about 170,000 people become new citizens of Canada.

If you want to become a Canadian citizen, you must:

• have been physically present in Canada as a permanent resident for at least 1,460 days during the six years immediately before the date of your application.

• be physically present for at least 183 days during each of four calendar years that are fully or partially within the six years immediately before the date of application.

• have met your personal income tax filing obligations in four taxation years that are fully or partially within the six years immediately before the date you apply.

• have lived Canada for at least three years (1095) days within the past four years before applying.
• Be at least 18 years old and have permanent resident status and have no unfulfilled conditions relating to that status, and your PR status must not be in question.
• Be able to speak one of the two official languages of Canada well enough to communicate with people. (If you are between 14 and 64, you will have to send proof of your ability to speak and listen in English or French with your citizenship application.)
• Not have any criminal history prohibitions (more details available).
• Have knowledge of Canada.
• Take the citizenship test if you are between the ages of 18 and 54.
• Attend a citizenship ceremony if you are 14 or older.