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Canadian Citizenship: Three Years in Five, and Other Requirements
Global Immigrate consultants · Published · Updated
Written by Global Immigrate consultants · Reviewed by Oscar Yip, Founder & Managing Director
Summary
Canadian permanent residents who have been physically present for 1,095 days (three years) in five years, and meet tax, language and knowledge-test requirements, can apply for citizenship. The conditions, counting days, the process and dual nationality.
The basic requirements
Requirement
Detail
Status
Canadian permanent resident
Residence
At least 1,095 days (three years) of physical presence in the five years before applying
Tax
Filed as required
Language
Ages 18–54 must show English or French ability
Test
Ages 18–54 must pass the citizenship test
Time before becoming a PR
Days spent in Canada with legal status (such as a work permit) before becoming a PR can partly count under the rules. Entrepreneur applicants running a business on a work permit may therefore qualify sooner.
The process
Count your days and confirm you qualify
Prepare language evidence and tax records
Submit the citizenship application
Take the citizenship test and interview, if required
Attend the citizenship ceremony
Planning advice
Keep full travel records.
Entrepreneur applicants start building days on their work permit, so record from the start.
Check your totals regularly to time your application.
Dual nationality
Canada allows dual nationality, but check your current country’s rules.
FAQ
How do PR and citizenship residence requirements differ?
Keeping PR needs two years in five; citizenship needs three years in five.
Do children take the test?
The test and language requirements apply to people aged 18–54.
Must I give up my current nationality?
Canada allows dual nationality, but check your current country’s rules.
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