Processing Times: Citizenship Certificate (Proof of Citizenship)

The table below shows the time required to process routine citizenship certificate applications. Processing times are based on how long it took to process 80 percent of all cases between October 1, 2011 to September 30, 2012.

Note: If you are applying through a Canadian embassy, high commission or consulate from outside Canada, add an additional 3 to 4 months to the total processing time.

If you are applying on behalf of a minor child residing outside Canada and the application is submitted directly to the Case Processing Centre in Sydney, Nova Scotia, add an additional 6 to 8 months to the total processing time.

For more information: If it has been longer than the time shown above since you applied, and you live:

• inside Canada, please contact the Call Centre. However, Call Centre agents cannot speed up the process of your application or make decisions on your case.
• outside Canada, you may contact the office where you submitted your application.

Learn about:

• The citizenship certificate application process
• Why your application for a citizenship certificate can be delayed

What is a routine application?

An application is considered routine if:

• you include in your application all the necessary documents and information specified in the application guide;
• you include proper photographs; and
• you include the correct fees.