Citizenship Application

To become a Canadian citizen, most applicants must

• be a permanent resident

• have lived in Canada for at least 3 out of the last 5 years (1,095 days)

• have filed their taxes

• pass a citizenship test

• prove their language skills in English or French

Other requirements may apply.

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There are additional or different requirements if you are:

• applying for a minor (under age 18)

• a Canadian applying for your adopted child born outside Canada

• a current or former Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) member applying under the fast-track process

• a past Canadian citizen who want your Canadian citizenship back (including current and former CAF members)

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Spouses of Canadian Citizens

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You don’t automatically become a citizen when you marry a Canadian.

If you’re the spouse of a Canadian citizen, you must meet the same requirements listed above (no exception).

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Children and Grandchildren of Canadian Citizens

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If you have a Canadian parent or grandparent, you may be a Canadian citizen.