If you’ve obtained permanent residency and lived in Canada for a few years, you may be eligible to take the final step: becoming a Canadian citizen. This guide breaks down the full Canadian citizenship application process in 2025—from checking eligibility to submitting your forms and passing the citizenship test.
Benefits of Canadian Citizenship
- The right to vote and run for political office
- A Canadian passport with visa-free access to over 180 countries
- Freedom from PR renewal obligations
- Eligibility for federal jobs and security clearances
- Ability to pass citizenship to children born abroad
Step-by-Step: How to Become a Citizen in Canada
Step 1: Check Your Eligibility
You must meet the following requirements to apply for citizenship in 2025:
- Be a permanent resident (PR) of Canada
- Physically present in Canada for at least 1,095 days (3 years) in the last 5 years
- Filed your income taxes for at least 3 years
- Pass a language test (English or French) if aged 18–54
- Pass the citizenship test (if required)
- No serious criminal history
Step 2: Gather Required Documents
- Permanent Resident (PR) card or immigration documents
- Language test results (IELTS, CELPIP, TEF, TCF)
- Travel history for the past 5 years
- Tax documents (e.g., Notice of Assessment from CRA)
- ID documents such as passport or national ID
- Digital photo meeting IRCC requirements
Step 3: Complete the Application Form
Download and complete the correct form from the IRCC website:
- Form CIT 0002 – Adults aged 18 and over
- Form CIT 0003 – Minors under 18
Ensure all information is accurate to avoid delays.
Step 4: Pay the Application Fee
- Adults: CAD 630
- Minors: CAD 100
You can pay online through the IRCC payment portal. Save the receipt to submit with your application. Fees may change, so always confirm the latest citizenship cost Canada.
Step 5: Submit the Application
Mail your completed application and supporting documents to the correct address provided by IRCC. Currently, applications are mailed to the Case Processing Centre in Sydney, Nova Scotia.
Step 6: Receive Acknowledgement and Tracking
Once IRCC receives your application, you’ll get an Acknowledgement of Receipt (AOR). You can then track your application status online.
Step 7: Take the Citizenship Test and Interview (if applicable)
Applicants aged 18–54 must take the Canadian citizenship test—a 20-question multiple choice test about Canada’s history, laws, geography, and symbols. Some applicants may also be invited for an interview.
Step 8: Wait for Decision
If your application is approved, you’ll receive an invitation to attend a citizenship ceremony.
Step 9: Attend the Citizenship Ceremony
You must take the Oath of Citizenship at a formal ceremony to officially become a Canadian citizen. This can be done in person or virtually.
Processing Time for Citizenship in Canada (2025)
- Standard processing: 10–14 months
- Additional time may be needed for complex cases
Optional: Hire an Immigration Lawyer
While you can apply on your own, hiring a legal expert may be helpful—especially if you have a complex history or need help gathering documents. Immigration lawyer fees can range from CAD 1,000 to CAD 3,000.
Conclusion
Becoming a citizen is the final step in your immigration journey. By following this naturalization process closely, ensuring your paperwork is accurate, and preparing for the test, you’ll be well on your way to full Canadian citizenship. If you’re ready to move from PR to citizen, the time to apply is now.