Becoming a Canadian citizen is an important milestone for permanent residents living in Canada. Citizenship provides the right to vote, obtain a Canadian passport, and fully participate in Canadian society.
If you’re planning to apply for citizenship for yourself or your child, understanding the application process is essential. This guide explains how to apply for Canadian citizenship for adults and minors, the required documents, application methods, and fees.
Who Can Apply for Canadian Citizenship
Before applying, you must meet several eligibility requirements. In general, you may apply for Canadian citizenship if you:
- Are a permanent resident (PR) of Canada
- Have lived in Canada for at least 1,095 days (3 years) during the last 5 years
- Filed your income taxes (if required)
- Demonstrate English or French language ability (if aged 18–54)
- Pass the Canadian citizenship test (if aged 18–54)
Parents or legal guardians may also apply for citizenship on behalf of minor children under 18.
Ways to Apply for Canadian Citizenship
Applicants can submit their citizenship applications in two ways:
1. Apply Online (Recommended)
Most applicants can now apply for citizenship online. Online applications are considered faster, easier, and more efficient.
Benefits of Applying Online
Applying online provides several advantages:
1. Fewer Errors
Built-in system checks help identify mistakes before submitting your application.
2. Immediate Confirmation
You receive an email confirmation immediately after submitting your application.
3. Cost-Effective
No printing or mailing costs are required.
4. Environmentally Friendly
Online applications reduce paper use.
Through your online account, you can:
- Fill out application forms
- Upload required documents
- Pay the application fees
- Track your application progress
2. Apply on Paper
Some applicants must still submit paper applications.
Situations Requiring Paper Applications
You must apply on paper if:
- You include time spent outside Canada as a Crown servant
- You are the family member of a Crown servant
- A representative will complete and submit your application for you
The government continues working to allow all applicants to apply online in the future.
Applying as a Family or Group
Canada allows families or groups to apply together online.
This option is available when:
- Adults apply with other adults
- Parents or legal guardians apply for minor children
Important Rules for Group Applications
- Each adult must have their own online account
- Accounts are linked together
- Each applicant must sign their own application
- Applicants cannot access each other’s full application details
One adult will submit all applications together once everyone signs their forms.
Applying for Minor Children
Parents or legal guardians can apply for citizenship for minors under 18.
There are two types of minor applications:
Minor 5(1)
A minor without a Canadian parent.
Minor 5(2)
A minor with a Canadian parent or a parent applying for citizenship at the same time.
Parents can apply online for up to 20 minors per account.
Signature Requirements
- Parents or guardians must sign the application
- Minors aged 14 to 17 must also sign
When a Minor Must Apply Alone
A minor can apply independently only if:
- No parent or legal guardian can apply for them
- They do not have a Canadian parent
- No parent is applying for citizenship at the same time
The minor must:
- Create their own online account
- Complete the application themselves
- Request permission to apply alone
Immigration authorities will review and either approve or reject the request.
Canadian Citizenship Application Fees
The government charges processing fees depending on the applicant’s age.
Adult Application Fee
Total cost: $649.75
This includes:
- Processing fee: $530
- Right of citizenship fee: $119.75
Minor Application Fee
Total cost: $100
This covers only the processing fee.
Payment Options
Applicants may:
- Pay individually and upload separate receipts
- Have one group member pay and upload a single receipt for everyone
If the full fee is not paid, the application will be returned.
Required Documents for Adult Applications (Paper)
If you apply on paper, you must submit several documents with your application.
1. Document Checklist (CIT 0007)
This checklist ensures that all required documents are included in your application.
2. Citizenship Application Form (CIT 0002)
The official application form must be fully completed and signed.
Passports and Travel Documents
Applicants must provide colour photocopies of passports and travel documents used during their eligibility period.
The eligibility period includes:
- The 5 years before applying
- At least 730 days spent as a permanent resident
Passport copies must include the identity page showing:
- Name
- Photo
- Date of birth
- Place of birth
- Passport number
- Issue and expiration dates
Language Proof Requirement (Ages 18–54)
Applicants aged 18 to 54 must prove they can communicate in English or French.
Accepted language proof includes:
Education in English or French
You may submit:
- Diploma
- Transcript
- Certificate
- Report card
If the document is not in English or French, a certified translation is required.
Accepted English Language Tests
Applicants can also provide results from:
- CELPIP General
- CELPIP General LS
- IELTS General Training
- PTE Core
Minimum scores typically require CLB Level 4 or higher in listening and speaking.
Expired test results are often still accepted.
Accepted French Language Tests
French-language tests accepted include:
- TEF
- TEFAQ
- DELF
- DALF
- TCF
- TCFQ
Applicants usually need a B1 level or higher.
Canadian Language Training Programs
Some government language programs are also accepted as proof.
Examples include:
- Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada (LINC)
- Provincial ESL or FSL programs
- Provincial language training certificates
Applicants must demonstrate Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) level 4 or higher.
Personal Identification Requirements
Applicants must provide two pieces of identification.
Each ID must include:
- Name
- Photo
- Date of birth
Examples include:
- Permanent resident card
- Driver’s licence
- Health card
- Foreign government ID
- Passport identity page
If the ID is not in English or French, a certified translation is required.
Citizenship Photos
Applicants must submit two identical colour photos that meet official citizenship photo specifications.
Police Certificates
You must provide police certificates if you:
- Lived outside Canada
- For 183 days or more consecutively
- During the last 4 years
- After turning 18 years old
Certificates must be issued:
- After your last stay in that country, or
- Within 6 months of submitting your application
Translations of Documents
Documents not in English or French must include:
- The original document
- A certified translation
Certified translators must be members of a recognized provincial or territorial translator association.
If the translator is not certified, you must also submit:
- A sworn affidavit confirming translation accuracy.
Additional Documents (If Applicable)
Depending on your situation, you may need additional documentation.
Examples include:
Use of a Representative Form (IMM 5476)
Required if someone assists you with the application.
Name Change Documents
Examples:
- Marriage certificate
- Divorce decree
- Legal name change certificate
- Adoption documents
Date of Birth Correction
Applicants must submit proof if requesting a different birth date on their citizenship certificate.
Gender Identifier Change Form (IRM 0002)
Used to update gender information on citizenship certificates.
Citizenship Application Refunds
Refunds may be issued if:
- Your application is withdrawn
- Your application is closed before a final decision
- You paid more than the required fee
- You do not become a Canadian citizen
Refunds are issued to the person listed in the payer information section of the receipt.
Should You Use a Representative?
A representative can help you with your application.
A representative may be:
- A family member
- A friend
- A lawyer
- An immigration consultant
However, hiring a representative is optional.
Using a representative does not guarantee approval or faster processing.
Final Thoughts
Applying for Canadian citizenship is an important step toward fully participating in Canadian society. While the process requires careful preparation, understanding the requirements and gathering the correct documents can make the application much easier.
Most applicants today benefit from submitting their applications online, which reduces errors and speeds up processing.
Before applying, ensure that you:
- Meet the eligibility requirements
- Have completed your physical presence calculation
- Gather all required documents and proof
With proper preparation, you can move one step closer to becoming a proud Canadian citizen.
