Canadian Citizenship FAQ: The Most Common Questions Answered

Eligibility Questions

Can I apply before completing 1,095 days of physical presence?

No. There are no exceptions to the physical presence requirement for standard citizenship applications. You must have been physically present in Canada for at least 1,095 days within the 5-year period before your application date. You should use the IRCC physical presence calculator to confirm you meet this requirement before applying.

Does Canada allow dual citizenship?

Yes. Canada fully permits dual and multiple citizenship. When you become a Canadian citizen, you are not required to give up any other citizenship you hold. However, some other countries may not permit their citizens to hold Canadian citizenship — check with your home country before applying.

Do children need to take the citizenship test?

No. Children under 18 are exempt from both the written citizenship test and the language requirement. They can be included in a parent's or guardian's citizenship application. Minor children do not need to separately meet the physical presence requirement; they are covered by their parent's application.

What if I am over 54? Do I still need to take the test?

No. Applicants aged 55 and older are exempt from the written citizenship test and the language requirement. They must still meet the physical presence and tax filing requirements, and must attend the citizenship ceremony and take the Oath.

Application Process Questions

How much does it cost to apply for citizenship?

The government fee for an adult citizenship application is $630 CAD, which includes a $530 processing fee and a $100 right of citizenship fee. The right of citizenship fee is refunded if the application is not approved. Children under 18 have a reduced fee of $100. Fees can change — always confirm the current amount on the IRCC website before applying.

How long does IRCC take to process a citizenship application?

Processing times vary significantly based on application volumes and the completeness of your file. As of 2025, typical processing times are 12 to 24 months from the date IRCC receives your complete application. Check the IRCC website for the most current processing time estimates.

What documents do I need to submit with my application?

The main citizenship application (CIT 0002) requires: proof of permanent residency, travel history documentation (for physical presence calculation), language proficiency evidence (for applicants aged 18–54), tax filing records (3 of 5 years), identity documents (passport, PR card), and photographs. Always check the current document checklist on the IRCC website, as requirements can change.

Test and Ceremony Questions

What happens at the citizenship ceremony?

The citizenship ceremony is the final step. You attend with family or guests, participate in the ceremony presided over by a citizenship judge or commissioner, take the Oath of Citizenship (swearing or affirming loyalty to the Monarch and commitment to Canadian laws), and receive your Citizenship Certificate. You may also sing O Canada.

Can I apply for a Canadian passport immediately after the ceremony?

Yes. As soon as you receive your Citizenship Certificate at the ceremony, you are a Canadian citizen and can apply for a Canadian passport. The passport application requires your Citizenship Certificate as proof of citizenship.

What if I cannot attend the scheduled ceremony?

If you cannot attend your scheduled ceremony for a valid reason, contact IRCC to request a rescheduled date. You must attend a citizenship ceremony and take the Oath to become a citizen — it cannot be skipped or done remotely in most cases.

Additional Resources

For more detailed information, visit the official IRCC website at ircc.canada.ca. PassPilot's citizenship glossary explains key terms, and our complete test guide covers everything you need to know about the knowledge test.