Apply – Search of citizenship records

The package includes the application guide and all the forms you need to fill out. Download and print the application package.

Read the guide carefully before you complete the application form. The fee for processing your form is not refundable, so make sure you are eligible for a search of citizenship records before you apply.

The application package contains instructions. Read those instructions, and be sure to provide the required documents. If information or documents are missing, your application may be delayed.

Applying for someone else

If you are applying for someone else, you may need to provide additional documents.

If the person is alive, you can complete the form but the other person must sign and date section 4B so their personal information can be given to you.

If the person has been deceased less than 20 years, you will need to provide the date of death and a proof of death (for example, a death certificate). You will also have to provide proof of your relationship to the deceased person (for example, a marriage certificate, if you were married to the person).

If the person has been deceased for more than 20 years, you can complete the form as the applicant. You will need to provide identification and pay the fee.

The fee is $75. The application processing fee is payable in Canadian funds only.

Payment of fees online is the preferred method of payment.

To pay your fees online, you must:

• Have a PDF Reader.
• Have a printer.
• Have a valid email address.
• Pay with a Visa®, MasterCard® or American Express® credit card.
• Print the “receipt of payment” page and include it with your application.
• Pay your fees online when you are ready.

To pay your fees at a financial institution in Canada, you must:

• Obtain an original payment receipt form (IMM 5401): Order it online or contact the Call Centre.
• Fill the receipt form and bring it with you when you go to pay your fees.
• Include the completed payment receipt form (IMM 5401) with your application.

To pay your fees at the Canadian consular mission (embassy, high commission or consulate) responsible for your area, you must:

• Find out which method of payment is required. The consular mission determines the payment method (cheque, money order, cash).

For more detailed instructions, read the “Citizenship Fees” section of the application guide.

If you live in Canada, mail your completed application form and the required documents to

Citizenship and Immigration Canada
Case Processing Centre - Sydney
Search of Records
P.O. Box 10010
Sydney, Nova Scotia  B1P 7C1

If you live outside Canada, mail your completed application form and the required documents to the Canadian embassy, high commission or consulate responsible for your area.