Canadian Citizenship

Adult permanent residents applying for Canadian citizenship under the ordinary grant provisions must meet the current statutory requirements that apply to their circumstances. Americans should also distinguish an ordinary grant after permanent residence from possible citizenship by descent, discussed in our Canadian citizenship for Americans guide. Eligibility should be confirmed before filing, particularly where there is extensive travel, criminal history or uncertainty about physical presence.

Physical presence

Most adult applicants must have been physically present in Canada for at least 1,095 days during the five years immediately before signing the application. At least 730 of those days must generally be spent in Canada as a permanent resident.

Time in Canada before permanent residence

Qualifying time spent in Canada as a temporary resident or protected person during the five-year eligibility period can count as one-half day, up to a maximum credit of 365 days.

Income tax filing

If required under the Income Tax Act, an applicant generally must have met personal income-tax filing obligations for at least three taxation years that fall wholly or partly within the five-year eligibility period.

Language and citizenship knowledge

Applicants who are 18 to 54 years old when they sign the application generally must demonstrate adequate knowledge of English or French and meet the citizenship knowledge requirement. IRCC describes the required speaking and listening ability as approximately CLB/NCLC level 4 or higher.

Prohibitions

Criminal proceedings, certain sentences, removal orders and other statutory prohibitions can affect eligibility. Applicants should also accurately disclose travel and immigration history.

Calculate before applying

IRCC provides an official physical-presence calculator. Applicants should retain the calculation and reconcile passports, travel records and other evidence before submission.