How to get Canadian Citizenship?
Updated on April 21, 2025
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Table of Contents
How can I apply for Canadian citizenship?
To apply for Canadian citizenship, you need to be a permanent resident and have lived in Canada for a certain amount of time. You’ll also need to meet language requirements and pass a citizenship test on Canadian history and government.
The process involves submitting a citizenship application along with supporting documents, paying a fee, and attending a citizenship ceremony once approved.
What can I benefit from becoming a Canadian citizen?
There are plenty of reasons people take this step so you are not alone. There are many advantages of becoming a Canadian citizen, which include:
- Full political rights: You gain the right to vote in federal, provincial, and municipal elections and can even run for office.
- Travel freely: You get access to a Canadian passport that grants visa-free or visa-on-arrival status to over 180 countries plus, you can leave Canada for extended periods without risking your status.
- Pass citizenship to children: You can automatically pass citizenship to your child if they’re born outside Canada like in the US.
- Access to social benefits: You get access to Canada’s public healthcare system, unemployment benefits, and social programs that are limited or unavailable to permanent residents.
- Dual citizenship: Canada and the US both permit dual citizenship, so you can keep your US citizenship while enjoying full rights in Canada.
Let’s also not forget the attached rights and responsibilities that come with Canadian citizenship, such as voting, obeying the law, and of course, paying your taxes. It’s important to be aware of what citizenship really means beyond just status.
Am I eligible for Canadian citizenship?
Here’s what you need to fulfill in order to qualify:
- Residency status: You need to be a permanent resident and not be under a removal order or facing immigration fraud investigation.
- Residency requirement: You need to have been a resident in Canada and lived there for at least 1,095 days (3 years) in the last 5 years of your application.
- Tax filing obligations: You should have also filed taxes in Canada for at least 3 years before your application.
- Language proficiency: If you’re 18–54 years old, you’ll need to show basic speaking and listening skills in English or French.
- Canadian knowledge: If you’re in the same age group, you’ll also need to pass a test on Canadian history, government, and symbols.
It’s important to note that your time spent in Canada on temporary visas like work or study permits typically doesn’t count toward your residency requirement.
How much does it cost to apply for Canadian citizenship?
Here is a breakdown of the fees that you might incur:
- Application fee (adults): CAD$630 (Processing fee of CAD$530 and right of citizenship fee of CAD$100)
- Application fee (minors): CAD$100
If you’re facing financial difficulties, fee waivers are an option, provided you can demonstrate financial hardship. When it comes to making the payment, you have several options. These include a credit card, a debit card, or a certified Canadian bank. Always keep the receipt as a record and as evidence of your payment.
Need help filing US Taxes while in Canada?
Contact us today.
When will I get the result of my application?
After you’ve submitted your application and payment, the waiting game begins. The expected processing time for a Canadian citizenship application can take a few months or even up to a year.
This period can be used to deepen your knowledge of Canadian history, which will be beneficial for the citizenship test.
What’s on the Canadian citizenship test?
Once your application is submitted and processed, the next step is the citizenship test. This test will assess your knowledge of Canada’s history, values, government, and national symbols. This can be written or oral (depending on your circumstances).
The Canadian government provides a key study resource: the Discover Canada guide for you to prepare for the test. But, if you’re under 18 or over 55, you’re exempt from taking the test.
What can I do if my application is denied?
There are a number of reasons why applications get denied. The most common ones are incomplete forms or not meeting the residency requirement.
In addition, there are prohibitions in which you will not be allowed to become a citizen such as having a criminal record or having human rights violations.
If that happens, you have the right to appeal to the Federal Court of Canada within 30 days. It’s a formal legal process that usually requires a solid argument and legal help. A qualified immigration lawyer can make a real difference here.
Legal experts can provide invaluable assistance, especially if you’re dealing with application denials or the complexities of dual citizenship.
Do I still have to file US taxes as a Canadian citizen?
Yes, even if you become a Canadian citizen, as long as you keep your US citizenship, then you still have to file US taxes, since the US taxes its people based on citizenship, not just residency.
If you don’t want any more tied responsibilities with the US, you have the option to renounce your US citizenship. However, it’s important to note that this is a legal and irrevocable decision, and consulting with a professional can help you in deciding if this is the right move for you.
