🗳️Vote in federal, provincial & municipal elections
🛂One of the world's strongest passports
🔒Irrevocable status — cannot be lost
👨👩👧Pass citizenship to children born abroad
Requirements
Are You Eligible for Canadian Citizenship?
Canada has one of the most open citizenship policies in the world — over 85% of permanent residents eventually become Canadian citizens. Here are the key requirements:
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Permanent Resident Status
You must be a permanent resident of Canada. Your PR card does not need to be valid — you can apply with an expired card as long as your PR status is in good standing.
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Physical Presence: 1,095 Days
You must have been physically present in Canada for at least 1,095 days (3 years) out of the 5 years immediately before applying. Time before PR counts as half a day, up to a max credit of 365 days.
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Tax Filing (if required)
You must have filed taxes in Canada for at least 3 years within the 5-year window before applying, if you were required to do so under Canadian tax law.
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Language: CLB 4+ (Ages 18–54)
You must demonstrate proficiency in English or French at CLB Level 4 or higher in all four abilities. IRCC may assess this through submitted documents, interaction with officials, or a formal hearing.
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Citizenship Test (Ages 18–54)
A 30-minute test with 20 multiple-choice/true-false questions on Canadian history, geography, government, rights and responsibilities. You need 15/20 to pass.
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Children Under 18
Special RuleChildren under 18 must have PR status but are exempt from the 1,095-day physical presence requirement. One parent must already be a citizen or apply at the same time.
❌ Grounds for Ineligibility
•Criminal conviction in the past 3 years
•Currently in prison, on parole, or probation
•Under a removal order from Canada
•Citizenship taken away within the past 5 years
•Under investigation for war crimes or crimes against humanity
•Permanent resident status under review or subject to fraud investigation
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Not Sure If You Qualify?
ICL's licensed consultants can review your full history and confirm your eligibility with certainty.
Book A ConsultationFAQ
Canadian Citizenship - Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about eligibility, the process, physical presence, and more.
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Ready to Become a Canadian Citizen?
ICL's RCIC-licensed immigration consultants have helped hundreds of permanent residents successfully complete their citizenship applications. Book a free consultation today.