Want to move away from the US but don’t want to go too far? Then read here to find out how to become a Canadian citizen.
March 21, 2025
By: Bobby Casey, Managing Director GWP
In July 2024, there was a huge uptick in Americans searching for ways to move to Canada. And in 2022, over 126,000 actually made the move, making it a 70% increase from 2021.
With the way that things are going in the US, there are myriad reasons why people are looking for an out. Because of its close proximity and other perks, Canada’s come into the spotlight.
Are you also searching for ways to get out of America and into another country that speaks English? Then you might be interested in how to become a Canadian citizen. Keep reading to find a comprehensive guide on the qualifications and steps.
Canada Citizenship Requirements
Is it easy to become a Canadian citizen? Not really.
Even if you have a strong passport, obtaining Canadian citizenship isn’t as simple as picking up and moving there. There are certain requirements you must meet before you can be a citizen.
Here are the eligibility requirements.
Permanent Resident (PR) Status
First of all, you have to be a permanent resident in Canada. There are several ways to do so, and the categories are as follows:
- Skilled workers
- Family sponsorship applicants
- Business immigrants
- International graduates with Canadian credentials
- Refugees and protected persons
- Provincial nominees
Once you’ve gotten your permanent residency, you must maintain it by being in the country for at least 730 days during the last five years. The good news is that those 730 days don’t have to be continuous, and some days outside of the country may even count.
In order for your PR status to count toward citizenship, your status must not be under review for:
- Fraud
- Misrepresentation
- A removal order
Physical Presence in Canada
There’s already a physical presence requirement with the PR status, but there’s also one for citizenship. You must have lived in Canada for at least 1,095 days (or three years) within the last five years before applying.
The time you’ve spent in Canada as a temporary resident (visitor, student, or worker) or protected person may count as half-days, up to a maximum of 365 days.
Income Tax Filing
Not only do you have to have lived in Canada for the last three years to apply for citizenship, but you also must have filed income taxes for those years as well.
Do note that even if you’ve only lived in the country for part of the year, you have to file a tax return if you have to pay taxes or want to claim a refund. However, you won’t need to file one before receiving benefits and credits during your first year living in Canada. You’ll need to do so after the first year though.
Language Proficiency (If Applicable)
If you’re between the age of 18 and 54 when you apply for citizenship, then you’ll have to prove that you’re proficient in English or French. Your skills must be the equivalent of level 4 of the Canadian Language Bencmarks (CLB) for English or Niveaux de competence linguistique canadien (NCLC) for French.
You can submit results from recognized language tests (such as IELTS or TEF) or proof of your education in either language.
Citizenship Test and Interview
Those between 18 and 54 must pass a citizenship test too. This covers:
- Canadian history
- Geography
- Government and laws
- Rights and responsibilities of citizens
You’ll be invited to take the citizenship test after you’ve submitted your application.
No Criminal Prohibitions
If any of the following apply to you, then you can’t apply for Canadian citizenship:
- You’re in prison, on parole, or on probation
- You were convicted of a serious crime in the last four years
- You are under a removal order
This applies to crimes committed both in and outside of Canada.
How to Apply for Canadian Citizenship
There are several steps to apply for Canadian citizenship. Find out more about each one below.
Gathering the Required Documents
Of course, you’ll need the application form. It’s the CIT 0002 for adults and the CIT 0003 for minors. In addition, you’ll need your PR card or landing documents and travel documents (passports for the past five years).
Other required documents include:
- Proof of language proficiency (for applicants 18-54)
- Tax documents (Notice of Assessment) from the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA)
- Two passport-sized photos
- Fees (CAD 630 for adults, CAD 100 for minors)
Do note that the application fee includes CAD 530 for the processing fee and CAD 100 for the right of citizenship fee (for minors, they only pay the latter). As of March 31, 2025, it’ll go up to $119.75.
Depending on your situation, you may be required to produce additional documents. For example, if you’ve changed your name, then you’ll have to show your marriage certificate, divorce certificate, or other name change legal documents. Or if you’re proving your language ability, you’ll need your school transcripts.
Submitting Your Application
You can download and fill out the form from the Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website. Double-check that you’ve attached all required documents, and pay the application fee.
You can also mail in your application. The correct IRCC address will depend on where you’re located, so check the site for more information. You should also use registered mail to track your application.
Attending the Citizenship Test and Interview
If you’re between the ages of 18 and 54, you’ll get an invitation from IRCC for your citizenship test within a week of getting your acknowledgment of receipt (AOR) letter or email. Most people will take the test online, although some may take it in person as well.
After you receive the invitation, you’ll have 30 calendar days to complete your citizenship test, which takes 45 minutes. There are 20 multiple-choice questions, and you must get 15 of them right to pass.
You’ll have up to three chances to pass, and if you don’t, you’ll get an invitation to a hearing with a citizenship official. They’ll give you an oral examination with questions similar to those on the original test. If you pass, then they’ll continue with processing your application; if you don’t, you’ll have to reapply and pay the fees again.
After you pass the test, an IRCC officer may interview you to verify your documents and language skills.
Taking the Oath of Citizenship
When your citizenship application is approved, you’ll receive an invitation to a citizenship ceremony. Here, you’ll take the oath of citizenship and receive your Canadian citizenship certificate. You can then apply for a Canadian passport.
Know How to Become a Canadian Citizen
By knowing how to become a Canadian citizen, you can start preparing before you even consider leaving the country. You won’t have to make a major life transition without direction, as you now know exactly what you have to do to get Canadian citizenship.
Just remember to keep all copies of your submitted documents and keep a close eye on your application status online. You’ll start your new chapter in life before you know it.
Contact Global Wealth Protection today to learn more about protecting your assets as an expat. We have over 20 years of experience and can help you minimize your tax obligations.
