To apply for Canadian citizenship, follow these steps:

Eligibility Criteria

• Be a permanent resident of Canada.
• Have lived in Canada for at least 1,095 days (3 years) out of the last 5 years.
• Have filed income taxes for at least 3 years within the 5-year period, if required.
• Demonstrate proficiency in English or French if you are between 18 and 54 years old.
• Pass a citizenship test on Canadian history, geography, government, and rights.
• Be ready to take the Oath of Citizenship upon approval

Application Process

Step 1: Choose How to Apply

• Most applicants can apply online through the official IRCC portal.
• Some must apply on paper, such as crown servants or their family members, or if you want a representative to submit the application for you

Step 2: Gather Required Documents

• Completed application form (CIT 0002 for adults).
• Proof of permanent residency (e.g., PR card).
• Identification documents (passport or travel documents).
• Proof of language proficiency, if applicable.
• Payment receipt for application fees (CAD $630 for adults, CAD $100 for minors).
• Photos meeting IRCC specifications

Step 3: Pay Fees

• Pay the application fees online via the official IRCC payment system.
• Keep the payment receipt to include with your application

Step 4: Submit Your Application

• If applying online, create an IRCC account, fill out the forms, upload documents, and submit.
• If applying on paper, mail your completed application package to the correct IRCC address using a tracked postal or courier service

Step 5: Track Your Application

• Use the IRCC citizenship application tracker online to monitor your application's status

Step 6: Prepare for Citizenship Test and Interview

• Study for the citizenship test covering Canadian history, geography, government, and rights.
• Attend an interview if requested by IRCC

Step 7: Attend Citizenship Ceremony

• Once approved, attend the citizenship ceremony to take the Oath of Citizenship and officially become a Canadian citizen

Processing times typically take around seven months from application submission

. This process ensures you meet all legal requirements and submit a complete application for Canadian citizenship.