Canada is home to a multicultural and diverse population. As a permanent resident, you have the opportunity to become a citizen of Canada. The government body of Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) manages matters related to Canadian citizenship.

There are 2 ways to obtain citizenship: by birth or by Naturalization. Naturalization is the process of attending a ceremony and swearing an oath to become a citizen of Canada.

Canada also allows you to have dual or multiple citizenships.

Who is Eligible to Apply for Canadian Citizenship?

You must meet the following criteria to apply for Canadian citizenship:

• Be a permanent resident
• Live in Canada for 1095 days (3 years) in the last 5 years
• Be able to speak either English or French
• Not have a criminal record in the recent past or an ongoing criminal case before applying
• Pass a test to prove their knowledge of Canada’s geography, political system, history, and rights of the citizens

What are the Benefits of Canadian Citizenship?

Being a citizen of Canada grants you the right to vote in elections at all levels of government. It also allows you to run for political office.

Canada allows its citizens to hold dual citizenship, meaning you don’t have to give up citizenship in your home country. However, it depends on if dual citizenship is allowed in your home country.

As a Canadian citizen, you will be allowed to work jobs that require a high-level security clearance at the federal level.

You will also get a Canadian passport as a citizen. You do not need any authorization to exit or re-enter Canada.

If you are a Canadian citizen, your children born in the country will naturally become Canadian citizens. This is also true for children born abroad to Canadian citizens.

Canada’s tax law is based on residency rather than citizenship. Therefore, you can be a citizen, however, you won’t need to pay taxes if you are not residing in the country.

What is Proof of Citizenship?

You require proof of citizenship while applying for a job, passport, social insurance number, etc in Canada.

There are 3 types of documents that can be used as proof of citizenship: Naturalization Certificate, Registration of Birth Abroad, and a Citizenship certificate.

A Canadian citizenship certificate can be issued to individuals

• born in Canada
• born abroad to Canadian citizens
• permanent residents who have been granted citizenship.

Canadian Citizenship Processing Time

The processing time for a Grant of Citizenship is 12 months.

Canadian Citizenship Card Refusal

These are some of the top reasons why a Permanent Resident Card renewal or replacement may be refused:

• Applicant does not meet their residency obligations
• Applicant has been charged with an indictable offense
• Applicant does not meet language requirements (if applicable)
• Applicant is under a removal order

How can I get dual citizenship in Canada?

You can obtain dual citizenship through a birthright or legal process. You could also get dual nationality by marriage.

Do I need permanent residency before applying for Canadian Citizenship?

Except for a few rare cases of international adoption, all other applicants must have Canadian permanent residency before they can become Canadian citizens.

Do I have to intend to stay in Canada if I want to become a citizen?

No, you no longer need to intend to reside in Canada to apply for Canadian citizenship.

Do I automatically become a Canadian citizen if I marry a Canadian?

No, you will need to meet the eligibility requirements to apply for Canadian citizenship.

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