Citizenship and Immigration Canada
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Resumption of Canadian citizenship

Consult this section to find out how long it takes to resume Canadian citizenship.

General processing time for routine applications

Currently, routine applications to resume Canadian citizenship are processed in approximately 13-16 months.

Please see below for details of each step in the application process.

The process is divided into three (3) steps:

Step Processing Time

Step 1:
Your application is received at the Case Processing Centre (CPC) in Sydney, Nova Scotia. Citizenship and Immigration Canada reviews your application, the documents and the citizenship fees you sent to ensure they meet the minimum processing requirements.

If your application does not meet the minimum processing requirements, your application will be returned to you.

Once your application has been reviewed by the CPC, you will then be able to access your case status online using e-CAS or by contacting the Call Centre.

The processing time for the application is approximately 13-16 months.
Step 2:
If your application is complete, the Case Processing Centre will forward your application to the Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) office closest to your home for processing.

The local CIC office will complete the necessary steps for a citizenship judge to make a decision on your application. If additional information or documents are needed, the local CIC office will contact you.

An interview with a citizenship judge may be required. Should this be necessary, you will be notified by mail regarding the time and place of your interview.

Step 3:
You will be notified by mail regarding the decision on your citizenship application.

If you meet the requirements, you will be invited to a citizenship ceremony where you will take the oath of citizenship and receive a certificate of Canadian citizenship.

If you do not meet the requirements, you will be informed in writing.

What is a routine application?

An application is considered routine if:

  • we receive all the necessary documents and the correct fees;
  • you meet the residence requirement;
  • you are not asked to provide additional documents such as fingerprints, a residence questionnaire or documents proving residence in Canada;
  • you are not subject to any immigration, security or criminal prohibitions; and
  • you do not need a hearing with a citizenship judge.