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Citizenship

What are the requirements for becoming a Canadian citizen?

To become a Canadian citizen, you must

Depending on your situation, there may be additional requirements.

Find out if you’re eligible


What is dual citizenship?

Every country decides whom it considers to be a citizen. If more than one country recognizes you as a citizen, you have dual citizenship.

You don’t apply for dual citizenship, and there is no related certificate. Canadians are allowed to take foreign citizenship while keeping their Canadian citizenship.

Ask the embassy of your country of citizenship about its rules before applying for Canadian citizenship.

For more information


Do I become a Canadian citizen when I marry a Canadian?

No. Marrying a Canadian citizen doesn’t give you citizenship.

If you want to become a Canadian citizen, you must follow the same steps as everyone else. There isn’t a special process for spouses of Canadian citizens.

You must meet several requirements to apply for citizenship. You must be physically present in Canada for at least 1,095 days during the 5 years right before the date you applied. This includes time as a

Your Canadian spouse can sponsor you to become a permanent resident if you

You may apply for citizenship if you

There are different rules to determine if children of Canadians born outside Canada have Canadian citizenship.

For more information

Application processing times


I’m Canadian, but my child was born outside Canada. Are they Canadian?

Your child is likely a Canadian citizen if at least 1 parent (legal parent at birth [opens in a new tab] or biological parent)

To find out for sure, apply for a citizenship certificate for your child.

Your child is not automatically a Canadian citizen if they’re an adopted child born outside Canada.


Can I count any time I’ve spent outside of Canada toward the physical presence requirement when applying for citizenship?

You can count time spent outside Canada toward the physical presence requirement for citizenship if you

This doesn’t include employment as a locally engaged person.

The physical presence requirement only uses time after

Find out how to calculate your physical presence


Do I have to use the travel journal?

No, using the travel journal is optional. You don’t need to submit it with your application.

When you apply for a permanent resident card or citizenship, you need to be able to tell us about all your trips outside Canada during certain periods of time. We created the travel journal to help record the dates and destinations of your trips.


If I’m applying for citizenship, do I still have to submit the physical presence calculation if I submit the travel journal?

You must always submit your calculation if the application is for

We’ll return your application if you submit it without your calculation.

You don’t need to submit the travel journal with your application. It’s for your personal use only (to help you complete the physical presence calculation).

Find out how to calculate your physical presence

If I’m transferring through different countries at the airport, or by car or train, do I need to record it in my travel journal?

If you don’t leave the airport during your stop, then you don’t need to record that country in your travel journal.

If you leave the airport, even if it’s only for a couple of hours, you should record the date and destination in the travel journal.

If you’re traveling by car or train, you’ll need to record dates and destinations of the countries you passed through.


How do I get more copies of the travel journal?

You can print more copies of the travel journal.


What is a non-routine citizenship application?

We consider your application non-routine or complex if

It may take us longer than the normal processing time to review a non-routine application.

For more information


Can I get my citizenship application processed urgently?

Yes, we can process applications for citizenship services urgently in some situations.

We’ll review your application to see if it qualifies. Even if you qualify, we can’t guarantee we’ll process your application urgently.

Find out when and how to apply urgently to


My citizenship application is being processed. How will the 2017 legislation changes affect my application?

If we received your completed application before October 11, 2017, then only some of the changes will apply to you.

Language and knowledge requirements

If you were a minor (an applicant between 14 and 17 years of age at the time you applied) you won’t need to meet language requirements or take a knowledge test.

If you were between 18 and 54 years old when you applied, you will still need to meet the language requirement and pass a knowledge test.

If you were between 55 and 64 years old when you applied, you won’t need to meet language requirements or take a knowledge test.

If you have received a notice to appear for a knowledge test or language assessment, IRCC will be contacting you about the next steps in your application.

Time spent in Canada

The changes to the amount of time you must be physically present in Canada do not apply to you. You must meet the physical presence requirements that were in place at the time you submitted your application.


I hired a representative before June 11, 2015 and my citizenship application is still in process. Can they continue to act as my representative?

Yes. As long as your citizenship application was received and deemed complete before June 11, 2015, any person who is advising or representing you can continue throughout the duration of that specific application (or until four years has passed).


Who can represent me on my citizenship application?

If your citizenship application is received after June 10, 2015, any paid representatives you may have hired must be authorized to do so. This would include members of the College of Immigration and Citizenship Consultants, lawyers or notaries including paralegals and students at law.


How much does it cost to apply for Canadian citizenship?

View our application fees list for adults and children under 18.


I am a citizen of another country. Will I lose that citizenship if I become a Canadian?

Under Canadian law, you can be both a Canadian citizen and a citizen of another country.

However, some countries won’t let you keep their citizenship if you become a Canadian citizen.

The consulate or embassy of your other country of citizenship can tell you whether this applies to you.


What photos do I need to include with my citizenship application?

You need to provide photos if you’re applying to:

Your photos must meet our requirements such as size, colour and information must be written on the back of the photo. We’ll return your application if your photos don’t meet the specifications.

Check the citizenship photo specifications for more information.


Can I leave Canada after I mail my citizenship application?

Yes. You can leave Canada after we receive your application.

If you need to leave Canada and want to stay eligible for Canadian citizenship, you must:

Make sure your PR card won’t expire while you are outside Canada.

We usually only mail letters, notices and other documents to addresses in Canada. In some cases, you may receive an email from us. You must reply to these letters or emails within a specified amount of time. If you don’t reply within the time frame and don’t provide an acceptable reason for not being able to keep your appointment with us or providing requested information, we may stop processing your application.

You must attend appointments and other events at our offices, like your:

These events only take place in Canada. If you can’t attend the appointment or event, you must either e-mail or write to the local office that sent you the event notice. You can also use the online web form to contact us.


What if I cannot attend my citizenship appointment with IRCC? Can I reschedule it?

Yes. If you are not available on the date and time of your appointment, write us a letter of explanation. Send this letter to the IRCC office that scheduled your original appointment. You can send this letter by mail, or online, using this Web form. We will reschedule your appointment on a different date.

If you do not attend your appointment, you must contact us within a certain amount of time. The notice we sent you inviting you to the appointment will tell you when you must contact us. Use this Web form and tell us why you missed your appointment. If you do not contact us in time, we will close your application. You will have to apply again and pay the required fees.


Where can I find out the status of my citizenship application and the processing time?

To check the status of your application, you can:

Find out more about improvements to our processing times and reducing the backlog.


What can I do if my citizenship application is refused?

You can apply for Canadian citizenship again. This new application must include all the required forms and documents, including a new application fee. There is no waiting period before you can reapply. However, you should make sure you meet the requirements for Canadian citizenship before you reapply.

If your citizenship application is refused, you may also seek judicial review of the decision by the Federal Court of Canada. This is not an appeal of the decision. You have thirty (30) days from the date on the refusal letter to apply.


My citizenship application was returned to me. Do I have to recalculate my physical presence (time lived in Canada) before I resubmit it?

If you applied online

Yes, you need to update your calculation in your online account before you resubmit your application.

On the “Physical presence calculator” section, you’ll find a question that asks, “Has anything changed in your physical presence in Canada between [last calculation date] and [yesterday’s date]?

If yes (you left Canada or served a sentence in that time range):

If no (you didn’t leave Canada or serve a sentence), click on the “Calculate my physical presence” button.  

If you applied on paper

Check the letter we sent with your incomplete application. It tells you if you have to recalculate your physical presence.

You must recalculate your physical presence if your application was returned because

Make sure the application date in the calculator and date of signature on the application form are the same.


Do I need to ask the Canada Border Services Agency for a history of entries when applying for citizenship?

No. Provide consent by checking the “Yes” box for question 14B “Have you held travel documents and or passports during your eligibility period” on your citizenship application. This will give us permission to get your history of entries from the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA). It will also take less time than you asking the CBSA for your history.

We use your history of entries to make sure that you have been in Canada long enough to qualify for citizenship.

If you do not provide consent by checking the “Yes” box, you may be asked to send a request for personal information to the CBSA to get your history of entries. Doing this may make the time to process your application longer than the routine processing times for citizenship.


What happens if I check “Yes” on Question 14B (“Consent to the CBSA and IRCC”) on the application for citizenship?

When you check “Yes”, you are giving us permission to get your history of entries from the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA). We need this information to process your citizenship application.

You must check this box because one government department cannot share your personal information with another department without your permission. If you do not check the “Yes” box, you may be asked to request your history from the CBSA and then send it to us. This process takes longer and may make your application take longer than the routine processing times for citizenship.


Can I submit an old version of the application form for Canadian citizenship?

It depends on the application and how old the form is.

The newest version is always available in your application package.

You can find the version date on the bottom left corner of the form. For example, “CIT 0002 (01-2019)” means the version date is January 2019.

If you submitted a form older than October 2020 or 2017

If you used the correct form and we returned the application to you as incomplete, you


Who has to take the citizenship test?

If you’re between 18 and 54 years old on the day you sign your application, you have to take the citizenship test. 

Learn more about who must take the test


Is the citizenship test difficult?

The citizenship test covers the range of topics and subjects found in the citizenship study guide entitled Discover Canada: The Rights and Responsibilities of Citizenship. You should study this guide to prepare for the test. On the test, you can expect to see questions that ask about


Does the study guide have sample questions to help me prepare for the citizenship test?

Yes, you can find study questions for the citizenship test in Discover Canada.


When can I take my online citizenship test?

You can only take your test during the 30-day period shown on your invitation. You must wait until you receive your invitation. You can’t access the test until we invite you.

After you receive your invitation, you

You cannot sign in to the test


My application status says I’ve been scheduled for an online test. Why haven’t I received an invitation?

This means we have scheduled your test and that the invitation is on its way to you. You must wait until you receive the invitation before you can take the test.

If you haven’t received your invitation by the “start date” in the citizenship application tracker, send an email to IRCC.CitOnlineTest-TestenligneCit.IRCC@cic.gc.ca. In your email, include


Where can I find my online test invitation?

We’ll send the invitation to the latest email address you gave us. This can be the email provided

To avoid missing the invitation,

If you or your representative did not give an email address in the application,

Read the invitation (a PDF attachment in the email) for detailed instructions.


In my invitation, the time between the online test “start date” and “end date” is not 30 days. What should I do?

Contact IRCC.CitOnlineTest-TestenligneCit.IRCC@cic.gc.ca with


What do I do if I missed my online citizenship test?

You need to take the test within the 30-day period in your test invitation. Within this period, you have up to 3 chances to take the test (for example, you have 2 other chances to retake the test if you fail the first time).

If you don’t take the test at all during those 30 days, find out what to do next.


Can I take the online test in a public library or with a public computer?

Yes, you may take the test in a public library or with a public computer, as long as you’re doing the test by yourself in


I signed in to the online test, but the page shows a “You can’t take the test right now” message. What should I do?

You may see this message if you signed in either

You can’t sign in before you get the test invitation. The invitation will explain that you have a 30-day period to access the test and include the start and end dates of your access.

You also can’t sign in outside this period or after you submit the test.

If you’re within the correct 30-day period and still see the message, make sure you entered the correct information, including

You’ll find the application number and UCI in your test invitation.

If you still have issues signing in, contact IRCC.CitOnlineTest-TestenligneCit.IRCC@cic.gc.ca. In your email, include


I submitted a group or family application. How will we access the online test?

For family or group applications, each person will get their own

If you used the same email, all test invitations will be sent to that address.

Check the test invitation to find the person’s individual application number, UCI and test dates.

Take care that each person uses their own information to sign in to the test. If you use the wrong login information, you could invalidate your test.


What do I do if I get a “403 Error” message when I sign in to the online test?

If you get this error message, try

If you still have issues signing in, contact IRCC.CitOnlineTest-TestenligneCit.IRCC@cic.gc.ca. In your email, include


When I sign in to the online test, why do I see a blank screen or a message that my browser isn’t supported?

To access the test, use Chrome or Safari.

If you’re already using these browsers, try:

If you still have issues signing in, contact IRCC.CitOnlineTest-TestenligneCit.IRCC@cic.gc.ca. In your email, include


Why do I have to sign in again when I get the online citizenship test link?

You will need to sign in again to reconfirm your identity after you click the test link before you take a photo of your personal identification.

Find out more about why you have to sign in again and all the steps to access the online citizenship test.


Do I have to start the online test immediately after I take a photo of myself?

You don’t have to. If you’re not ready to start the test after you take your picture, you may close your browser. When you’re ready, you’ll need to sign in again and get a new test link.

You must still complete the test within 30 days from the date in your test invitation.

Find out more about what happens before you start the test


Can I ask someone to help me sign in to the online test?

Yes. You can ask someone (such as a family member) to help you sign in and access the test.

The person who helps you can’t


What if I decline the privacy notice for the online test?

You’ll go back to the sign-in page. If you declined by mistake, enter your application number and UCI again to continue.

If you don’t want to accept the privacy notice, you won’t be able to continue to the online test. You may have to wait until in-person tests resume. To reschedule your test, email the office that sent you the test invitation. The email is in the Accommodation section of your invitation.

Find out more about accessing the online citizenship test.


What if I don’t agree with the terms and conditions of the online test?

If you don’t agree with the terms and conditions, you can’t continue. You will go back to the sign in page.

You can email the office that sent you the test invitation (the email is in the Accommodation section of your invitation).

Find out more about accessing the online citizenship test.


Who gets the online test link when I click the “Email me the test link” button?

When you click the “Email me the test link” button, we’ll send the test link to your email address or your representative’s email address. This is the same email you provided

If you change your email after you receive the invitation,

Find out more about who gets the test link.


I clicked the “Email me the test link” button but don’t get the online test link. What should I do?

First, check the spam and junk folder. If the test link isn’t there, you can ask for another link by clicking the “Resend the test link” button.

Find out more about what to do if you still don’t get the link.


What do I do if my online test link expires?

The test link expires after 15 minutes. If your link expired, sign in again to get a new test link.

Find out more about how the test link works.


Will I get the online test link if I have a representative?

If you provided your representative’s email address in your application, they’ll get the test link. You can ask us to send the test link to your email address.


I got disconnected during the online test. Can I use the same test link to return to the test?

Yes, you can. If you have multiple test links, use the latest test link you received.

If you go past the 45-minute time limit while disconnected,


I accidentally clicked the “Resend the test link” button. Do I have to use the new online test link?

Yes. If you clicked the “Resend the test link” button multiple times, use the latest test link you received. When a new test link is sent, the old one will no longer work.


My webcam isn’t working and can’t connect to the online test system. What should I do?

Find out how to fix webcam issues in

If you still can’t fix the issue, contact IRCC.CitOnlineTest-TestenligneCit.IRCC@cic.gc.ca. In your email, include


My webcam is working, but it can’t connect to the online test system. What should I do?

When this happens, you may see the error message “We could not connect to your webcam for monitoring, please check your webcam and internet connection and try again.”

To solve this issue, try using a different device to take the test.

If you can’t return to the test within 45 minutes (the test’s time limit), contact the email in the “Rescheduling” section in your test invitation. In your email, tell us

We’ll reschedule your test once we review your email.

It usually takes us 4 to 8 weeks to reschedule your test, but it may take longer.


During the online test, my webcam shows a black or static image. What should I do?

Try using a different device to take the test.

If you can’t return to the test within 45 minutes (the test’s time limit), contact the email in the “Rescheduling” section in your test invitation. In your email, tell us

We’ll reschedule your test once we review your email.

It usually takes us 4 to 8 weeks to reschedule your test, but it may take longer.


What kinds of photos do you need from me for the online test?

At steps 6 and 7 of your sign-in process, you must take photos of your

If you ask someone else for help, the person who helps you can’t be


What should I do if I can’t retake the photos for my online test?

If you need help or you’re not able to retake your photos, contact IRCC.CitOnlineTest-TestenligneCit.IRCC@cic.gc.ca.

In your email, include


Can I retake my online test photo (of my ID or myself) after I approve it?

You can retake the photo after you approve it only if you have not started the test. To do this:

  1. Wait for at least 15 minutes until your current test link expires.
  2. Sign in again using the original test link in your invitation.

If you’ve already started the test, you cannot retake the photo after you approve it.


What should I do if the online test photo of my personal identification (ID) or face is unclear?

You can

Your photos must be clear and easy to see. Make sure that the biographical information on your ID is easy to read.

If we can’t clearly see your photos,


I took a picture of my face instead of my personal identification (ID) for the online test. What should I do?

If you accidentally took a picture of your face instead of your photo ID at step 6 of the sign-in process, you don’t have to contact us.

We’ll

Depending on the result of our review, your test result may be invalid and we may send you a new invitation.

If you have to take the test again, it can take a few weeks or months to schedule (depending on

our capacity).

You don’t need to contact us to reschedule your test. If you contact us, we won’t have further information or schedule you sooner.


Do I have to download the online test photos that I take of my ID and myself?

You do not need to download the photos. You can download them if you want to. It’s optional.


When do I get my official online test result?

Once you submit the test, the result page will immediately display your score. You need to get at least 15 out of 20 questions correct to pass the test. This score is not your official test result.

After you take the test, one of our officers will review your result to make it official. They’ll record your official test result as 1 of 3 options:

Your result is only official after this review.

Your application status will show as “completed” if you received a pass or a fail.

Your status will show “in progress” if your

Depending on your official result, your updated application status will be 1 of 4 options:

Find out more about how and when you’ll get your official test result.

You can also check your application status.


I got disconnected and can’t see my online test result. What should I do?

In this situation, the test system may have automatically submitted your answers. To get your test result, contact the email in the Rescheduling section of your test invitation. In your email, tell us


Do I get a confirmation email after I complete the online test?

We won’t automatically send you a confirmation email. As a confirmation, you can print or email the test result page to yourself using the buttons at the bottom of the page.


I forgot to print or email the online test result to myself. How do I get my test result?

Contact the email in the Rescheduling section of your test invitation. In your email, tell us


Do I have to report my online test result to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC)?

No, you don’t have to contact us after you submit the test. Our database records your answers and test result automatically.


What are my next steps after taking the online test?

If you pass the test

You may have to do an interview with a citizenship officer. If you have to do an interview after the test, it will happen

Otherwise, wait until you are invited to the citizenship ceremony.

If you don’t pass the test

What you’ll need to do will depend on how many times you have not passed.

Find out more about what to do after you take the test.


I’ve completed the online test, but my application status is outdated. What should I do?

This is because we still need time to further review and officially confirm

Once we complete the review, we’ll update your application status.

You don’t have to contact us or do anything further. If you contact us, we won’t update your application status sooner.


Why did I get another test invitation after I passed the online test?

You may be receiving another invitation because

Read the invitation to find out why we’re asking you to take the test again.

If you think you’re getting another invitation by mistake, contact the email in the “Rescheduling” section of your test invitation. In your email, include


I’m taking the online test with Microsoft Teams. Who do I contact if I need help?

Contact the office that sent you the test invitation by replying to your invitation email. In your email, include


What do I do if I’m disconnected during the online test?

If you’re disconnected,

Make sure your Internet connection is stable during the test.

Find out more about what to do before and during your test.


I clicked the “Exit” button or closed the page by mistake during the online test. What do I do?

You can always sign in again as soon as possible. Even if you left in the middle of your test, the 45-minute timer will continue. When 45 minutes have passed, the system will automatically submit your test with any answers you selected.

If you’re not able to complete the test due to technical issues or emergencies, you may have to

Find out more about what to do before and during your test.


What personal information do you collect for the online test?

The personal information we collect includes


After I apply for citizenship, how long will it be before I can take the test?

We’re now inviting applicants to take the citizenship test online.

In-person tests may also be available if you need an accommodation.

For the latest instructions, wait for and check your invitation.

Every application is different. The wait time for your test invitation depends on your situation and our current processing time (updated weekly).

For example, you may wait longer if your application is non-routine.

Send a complete application

To submit a complete application

  • all sections of the “Review before you submit” page in your account must have a “Ready” status (if applying online)
  • read the document checklist in the application package (if applying on paper)

Your wait time may be longer if you send an incomplete application.

Wait for your test invitation

You can’t take the test without an invitation.

When you check your application status, go to the “Citizenship test” section of the citizenship status tracker. If it shows “In progress”, that means

You still have to wait for the invitation to arrive before you can take the test.

If you have an emergency

If you need to take the test sooner due to an emergency, check if you qualify for urgent processing.


What if I cannot attend my citizenship appointment with IRCC? Can I reschedule it?

Yes. If you are not available on the date and time of your citizenship test, the notice inviting you to the test will tell you how to contact us to reschedule it.

Learn more about what to do if you miss your citizenship test.


Can I bring my child to the in-person citizenship test?

We’re now inviting applicants to take the citizenship test online.

In-person tests may also be available if you need an accommodation.

For the latest instructions, wait for and check your invitation.

No, only the person scheduled for the test can be in the testing room.

If you need accommodation, contact the office that sent your invitation to explain your situation. They will let you know if they can accommodate your child. For example, you may be able to bring someone to supervise your child in the waiting room of the test location.


What should I do if I missed my citizenship test?

Find out what to do if you missed your test.


When do I know if I passed the citizenship test?

We’re now inviting applicants to take the citizenship test online.

In-person tests may also be available if you need an accommodation.

For the latest instructions, wait for and check your invitation.

You need to get at least 15 out of 20 questions correct to pass the test.

Online test

You’ll get your unofficial test score right after you submit the test.

After your test, we’ll need time to review your answers and the information you submitted before the test. It can take several months before the test score becomes official.

Learn more about how we review your online test result.

In-person test

You’ll get your official test score right after you take the test.


What happens if I fail the citizenship test?

Find out what to do if you fail the citizenship test.


How long will I wait between my citizenship test and the ceremony?

It will vary based on your situation and our current processing time (updated weekly).

Learn more about the wait time for your citizenship ceremony.


Can I bring my child to the citizenship ceremony?

If your child is not becoming a Canadian citizen at the ceremony

This can be because your child is

Follow the instructions below based on the type of ceremony you’ll attend.

Ceremony type Can your child attend the ceremony?
Video oath ceremony (virtual citizenship ceremony) Yes, they may attend the ceremony virtually with you.
In person ceremony It depends on your ceremony’s venue or location. Check your invitation to make sure you can bring your child.

If your child is an applicant who’s becoming a Canadian citizen at the same ceremony as you

Follow the instructions below based on the age of your child.

Age of the child Do they have to attend the ceremony?
Between 14 and 17 years old Yes
13 years old or younger No, but they’re welcome to attend in most cases. To be sure, check your ceremony invitation.

Find out who must attend the ceremony


How do you measure how well I can speak English or French when applying for citizenship?

To measure if you have adequate knowledge of English or French we use:

You must reach CLB/NCLC Level 4 or higher to get Canadian citizenship.

CLB/NCLC is the official standard used in Canada to describe, measure and recognize how well adult immigrants can communicate in their second language. We use this standard to make sure we evaluate everyone the same way.

The ways we measure how well you can speak and listen in English or French include:

Using the CLB/NCLC, a citizenship officer will make the final decision if you have adequate knowledge of English or French.


What language level do I need when I apply for citizenship?

If you’re between 18 and 54 years old when you sign your application, you must show an adequate knowledge of speaking and listening skills in English or French.

An “adequate knowledge” is equivalent to level 4 in Canadian Language Benchmarks (CLB) or Niveaux de compétence linguistique canadien (NCLC).

Learn more about the language requirement


What documents can I use to prove that I meet the citizenship language requirement?

You can send us one of a number of different documents to show that you meet the language requirement, including:

For information on other forms of proof accepted, see:

You need to reach level 4 or higher to apply for citizenship. We use your documents to determine if you have reached this level for speaking and listening in English or French.

We will review the language proof you send us. We won’t process your application and will return it to you if your proof:


What third-party language tests will you accept as proof I have adequate knowledge of English or French when I apply for citizenship?

A third-party test is a test done by an organization that isn’t Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).

We accept third-party test results as proof of your language ability from organizations including:

We will accept tests that you previously submitted for immigration purposes to Quebec, including:

We don’t accept any other third-party test results, even if they’re similar.

Visit each organization’s website to learn how to write the exams. Since we don’t run them, we don’t track when and where they’re offered.

In some cases, you may send test results that you already sent to us or the Ministère de l’Immigration, de la Francisation et de l'Intégration (MIFI). We’ll accept the test results that you sent with your application for:

See the complete list of acceptable documents.


I graduated from an English-or French-language high school/college/university. What can I use to show that I can communicate in one of the official languages when I apply for citizenship?

You may send a transcript, diploma or certificate showing that you graduated from a secondary school or from a post-secondary program in Canada or abroad. These materials must show that the program was in English or French. A single course in an official language is not enough to meet this requirement.

See the complete list of acceptable documents.


Can I use the government-funded language program I took to prove that I meet the citizenship language requirement?

Yes, you can use a federal or provincial language program to prove that you meet the language requirement for your citizenship application.

Federal language program

When you submit your citizenship application, you need to include a language certificate from a

Your results for speaking and listening skills must be equal to either a language level 4 or higher of the

If you did your training

Provincial language program

We also accept results from language programs in

Submit a certificate or report card from the program. It must show that you completed the training at a CLB/NCLC level 4 or higher (or equivalent).

See the complete list of acceptable documents if you apply as


Can I provide my LINC/CLIC placement test as a proof that I meet the citizenship language requirement?

No. You must provide evidence that you have reached CLB/NCLC 4 or higher in speaking and listening as part of a LINC/CLIC course to meet the language ability requirement for your citizenship. A placement test done by a LINC/CLIC assessment center is not accepted as evidence.


I’ve lost my certificate or transcript showing I meet the citizenship language requirement. What can I do?

If you have lost your certificate, most third-party testing bodies and provincially-funded language training programs will send you a copy of your certificate. Contact the organization where you completed the language training or testing.


Can I submit the results from a third-party language test that I took when I first applied to immigrate to Canada as proof I meet the citizenship language requirement?

Yes. You may send the same third-party language test results from your immigration application with your application for citizenship. There is no expiration date for third-party language test results for citizenship applicants.


Do you accept certificates from private language schools as proof I meet the citizenship language requirement?

No. If you have taken private language classes, those classes are not enough to prove that you speak French or English well enough to apply for Canadian citizenship. You must take an IRCC-approved third-party language test. If you achieve CLB/NCLC 4 or above on this test, submit the results with your citizenship application.


How can I apply for a citizenship certificate or search of citizenship records?

There are 2 ways to apply: online or on paper. You can only apply online to get your own citizenship records. To apply for someone else’s citizenship records, you need to apply on paper.

We process online and paper applications the same way and at the same speed.

There are some differences between applying online and on paper. This includes how

Find out how to apply for


When and how do I apply urgently for a citizenship certificate?

Processing times tell you how long it took us to process most complete applications in the past. We can process applications faster than our normal processing times in special cases.

You can ask for urgent processing if you need a citizenship certificate to

Your request for urgent processing must include

We’ll review your request to see if it qualifies. Even if you qualify for urgent processing, we can’t guarantee that you’ll get your citizenship certificate on time.

Urgent processing for dual Canadian citizens

Dual Canadian citizens can apply for a citizenship certificate urgently. To qualify, you must

  • also be a citizen of a visa-exempt country
  • have proof of air travel to Canada within 6 months following the date of application
  • have applied at the same time for a citizenship certificate and a Canadian passport

You can apply for urgent processing


Urgent processing: Submitted paper application (from outside Canada and the United States)

Contact the Canadian embassy, consulate or high commission (opens in a new tab)  where you submitted your application.


Urgent processing: Submitted paper application (from Canada or the United States)

Fill out the web form (opens in a new tab)  to explain why you need urgent processing.

Include


Urgent processing: Submitted online application

Fill out the web form (opens in a new tab)  to explain why you need urgent processing.

Include


Urgent processing: New online application

We’ll ask you if you need urgent processing in the application.

Answer yes, and

  • give an explanation of why you need urgent processing
  • upload documents to support your explanation

Create an account or sign in


Urgent processing: New paper application

  1. Complete the application package(opens in a new tab).

    Include with your application

    • a letter explaining why you need urgent processing
    • documents to support your explanation
  2. Pay your application fee (opens in a new tab) .
  3. Submit your application.

Can I update my application for a citizenship certificate?

Yes, you can update your application after you submit it. How you do that depends on how you applied.

How you applied How to contact us and update your application
Online application from inside Canada or the United States Use the web form
Online application from outside Canada and the United States Contact the Canadian embassy, high commission or consulate you selected in the online application
Paper application from inside Canada or the United States Use the web form
Paper application from outside Canada and the United States Contact the Canadian embassy, high commission or consulate you sent your application to

If you change your contact information (such as your address or email)

  • it takes time for us to update your information
  • check in case we sent the update to your old contact information

Find out more on how to


I live abroad and applied online. How will I get my citizenship certificate?

If you asked for an electronic certificate (e-certificate) in your application

A link with instructions to access to your e-certificate will be available in your IRCC secure account(opens in a new tab) .

If you asked for a paper certificate in your application

If your mailing address is in the United States, we’ll mail your citizenship certificate to the address in your application.

If your mailing address is outside Canada and the United States


How do I get a citizenship certificate (proof of citizenship) for someone under 18 years old?

You


How do I fill out my application for a citizenship certificate if I don’t know everything about my parents or grandparents?

If you don’t know the information we ask for on the form, enter ‘unknown’ in the spaces provided. If it doesn’t apply to your parents or grandparents, enter ‘not applicable’ or ‘NA’.

We collect information about your parents and your grandparents, because it helps us:

If we don’t have enough information about your parents or grandparents, your application may be delayed and/or we may not be able to assess your claim.


For my citizenship certificate application, can I provide documents that aren’t in English or French?

Yes. If you provide a document that isn’t in English or French, you must send it with

Check the translation requirements if you applied


What documents should I send with my application for a citizenship certificate (proof of citizenship)?

The Document checklist [CIT 0014] (PDF, 0.99 MB) explains

Do not send birth or marriage certificates issued in Quebec before January 1, 1994. For more information, contact the Directeur de l’état civil du Québec.

If your documents aren’t in English or French, send us a


My citizenship certificate was mailed to me, but I never received it. What do I do?

It depends on when and where we sent your certificate.

We sent your certificate to an address in Canada or the United States

If it’s been less than 6 weeks since we sent your certificate

If 6 weeks to 6 months have passed since we sent your certificate

Contact us and we’ll replace it:

When you contact us, provide your

If more than 6 months have passed since we sent your certificate

You need to

We sent your certificate to a Canadian embassy, high commission or consulate

If it’s been less than 8 weeks since we sent your certificate

If 8 weeks to 6 months have passed since we sent your certificate from Canada

You can contact the Canadian embassy, high commission or consulate

If more than 6 months have passed since we sent your certificate

You need to


I legally changed my name. How do I change the name on my citizenship certificate or card?

To change the name on an application in progress

To change the name on your citizenship certificate

To change the name on your citizenship card, you


How do I update my citizenship certificate or card with my reclaimed Indigenous name?

If you’ve reclaimed your Indigenous name, you can change the name on your citizenship certificate or card. To do that, apply for a new citizenship certificate. There will be no cost for this change until May 30, 2026.

We no longer give out citizenship cards or the commemorative certificates that came with them. If you apply to update or replace your citizenship card, we will send you a citizenship certificate.

When you apply, include either an eligibility form or a statutory declaration, depending on your situation.

Include an eligibility form [IRM 0004] (PDF, 1.8 MB) if you either

  • amended your birth certificate or
  • obtained a legal change of name document

Include a Statutory Declaration [IRM 0005] (PDF, 1.8 MB) if you

  • are applying for a free replacement certificate and
  • can’t amend your birth certificate or obtain a legal change of name document
    • You’ll also need to include proof that you can’t obtain these documents (for example, a rejection letter from your province or territory).

We’ll use these forms to determine if you’re eligible for a free replacement certificate.

You’ll have to pay the usual fees if

  • you’re applying for your first citizenship certificate
  • you’ve declared your citizenship certificate lost, stolen or damaged

Apply for a citizenship certificate.


I want to replace or update my citizenship certificate. What do I do with my current certificate?

You can only have 1 valid citizenship certificate. Your next steps depend on the type of certificate you have.

If you have an electronic certificate (e-certificate)

When you submit your application to replace or update your certificate

If you have a paper citizenship certificate or citizenship card

When you apply for a certificate, you must return

If you find an old certificate after you get a new one, send it to the Case Processing Centre in Sydney, Nova Scotia.

If you don’t return them, it will delay the processing of your application.

Check your instruction guides

To learn more, check your instruction guide:


I’ve lost my citizenship card/certificate. How do I replace it?

If your card or certificate was stolen, report the theft to your local police department.

If you don’t plan to apply for a replacement for at least 6 weeks after the loss or theft

Replacing your citizenship card

We stopped giving citizenship cards and the commemorative certificates in February 2012. We won’t send you a new card or replace a commemorative certificate.

To replace a lost or stolen card, you need to apply for a citizenship certificate (8½ x 11 paper certificate).

Replacing your citizenship certificate

You need to apply for a citizenship certificate if yours was stolen or lost.

Other documents we accept as proof of citizenship

Find out which other documents you can use to prove your Canadian citizenship.


Can I replace my citizenship certificate or card if there’s a mistake on it?

If you received an electronic citizenship certificate (e-certificate), find out how to access it.

It depends on

If we made the mistake and it’s been 90 days or less

We’ll replace your certificate for free. Your next steps depend on the certificate type that you have.

Electronic certificate (e-certificate)

If you have an e-certificate, how you contact us depends on what you applied for :

For most applications to become a Canadian citizen (citizenship grant)

This includes applications for

  • adults
  • minors 14 and above
  • Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) members

How to send the request

Email the office that sent you your ceremony invitation. If possible, reply directly to the invitation email, so we can answer you faster.

In the email

  • type this in the subject line: “E-certificate error – application number (provide your application number(opens in a new tab)  )”
    • For example: E-certificate error – application number C123456789
  • provide the applicant’s name and date of birth
  • tell us what needs to be fixed
If your request is urgent

To send an urgent request, follow the instructions above and

  • add “Urgent” at the beginning of the email’s subject line
    • For example: Urgent - E-certificate error – application number C123456789
  • explain why it’s urgent (for example, if you have an emergency)
  • attach a document to support your explanation

After you send the email

We’ll review your request to confirm if we can replace your certificate for free.

If we determine that we did not make the mistake

For other citizenship applications

This includes applications

  • for a minor aged 13 and under to become a Canadian citizen
  • for proof of citizenship (citizenship certificate)
  • to resume Canadian citizenship after giving it up

How to send the request

Email us at IRCC.ECertificatePilot-PiloteCertificatE.IRCC@cic.gc.ca.

In the email

  • type this in the subject line: “E-certificate error – application number (provide your application number(opens in a new tab) )”
    • For example: E-certificate error – application number C123456789
  • provide the applicant’s name and date of birth
  • tell us what needs to be fixed
If your request is urgent

To send an urgent request, follow the instructions above and

  • add “urgent” at the beginning of the email’s subject line
    • For example: urgent - E-certificate error – application number C123456789
  • explain why it’s urgent (for example, if you have an emergency)
  • attach a document to support your explanation

After you send the email

We’ll review your request to confirm if we can replace your certificate for free.

If we determine that we did not make the mistake

Paper certificate

If you have a paper certificate, find out how to send request and what to expect after you send it:

How to send the request

  1. Prepare these documents:
    • the citizenship certificate with the mistake
    • a note explaining what needs to be fixed

    If your request is urgent, you also need to

  2. Send your documents to us.

    Send them to us by mail or courier if you got the certificate after applying.

    • to become a Canadian citizen (grant of citizenship)
    • to resume your Canadian citizenship after giving it up
    • for a citizenship certificate (proof of citizenship) from Canada or the United States
      • This includes online and paper applications.

If you applied for a citizenship certificate from outside Canada and the United States, send your documents to the Canadian embassy, high commission or consulate(opens in a new tab) 

  • where you submitted your paper application or
  • that you chose in the online application

After you send the request

We’ll review your request to confirm if we can replace your certificate for free.

If we determine that we did not make the mistake

If we didn’t make the mistake or it’s been more than 90 days

We won’t be able to replace your certificate for free.

If you still want to correct the mistake, you must apply on paper to replace the certificate and pay the fee.

 We stopped issuing the citizenship cards in 2012

If you want to fix a mistake on a citizenship card, you must apply for a citizenship certificate and pay the fee.


How can I apply for a citizenship certificate or search of citizenship records?

There are 2 ways to apply: online or on paper. You can only apply online to get your own citizenship records. To apply for someone else’s citizenship records, you need to apply on paper.

We process online and paper applications the same way and at the same speed.

There are some differences between applying online and on paper. This includes how

Find out how to apply for


When and how do I apply urgently for a search of citizenship records?

We can process applications faster than our normal processing times in special cases.

You can ask for urgent processing if you need to

Your request for urgent processing must include

We review your request to see if it qualifies. Even if you qualify, we can’t guarantee that you’ll get your search of citizenship record on time.

You must choose between applying online or on paper.

  • To get someone else’s record , you can only apply on paper.
  • Do not submit both online and paper applications for the same request.
    • If you do, we won’t process your duplicate application.

You applied on paper from Canada or the United States

Fill out the web form (opens in a new tab)  to explain why you need urgent processing.

Include

  • your full name, date of birth, email address and telephone number(s)
  • a message that starts with “Request for urgent processing”

You applied on paper from outside Canada and the United States

Contact the Canadian embassy, consulate or high commission (opens in a new tab)  where you submitted your application.


You applied online

Fill out the web form (opens in a new tab)  to explain why you need urgent processing.

Include:

  • your full name, date of birth, email address and telephone number(s)
  • a message that starts with “Request for urgent processing”
  • any documents that will support your explanation

You haven’t applied yet: Get your own records urgently

You may choose to apply online or on paper for your own records.

Apply online urgently

We’ll ask you if you need urgent processing in the online application.

Answer “Yes” and

  • explain why you need urgent processing
  • upload documents to support your explanation

Our online application tool works best in Google Chrome. Once you start the application, you have 60 days to submit it.

Create an account or sign in

Apply on paper urgently

  1. Complete the application package (opens in a new tab)

    Include with your application

    • a letter explaining why you need urgent processing
    • documents to support your explanation
  2. Pay your application fee (opens in a new tab) 
  3. Submit your application

You haven’t applied yet: Get someone else’s records urgently

To get someone else’s record (opens in a new tab) , you need to apply on paper .

Do not apply online. If you do, we won’t process your online application.

  1. Complete the application package (opens in a new tab) 
    • Include with your application
      • a letter explaining why you need urgent processing
      • documents to support your explanation
  2. Pay your application fee (opens in a new tab) 
  3. Submit your application

What is a hearing conducted by videoconference?

A hearing conducted by videoconference is the same as an in-person hearing except you speak to an IRCC official or Citizenship judge through one of our computers in an IRCC office. An IRCC official will be with you to make sure you can see and hear the interviewer properly. We use videoconferences so you have your hearing as quickly as possible.

Prepare for a videoconference hearing the same way that you would any other hearing. Review your Notice to Appear to make sure you bring everything you need. You do not need to bring any computer equipment of your own.


I sent a citizenship application for a minor under subsection 5(1) and paid $530. Will I get a refund?

On February 14, 2018, the fee for minors applying under subsection 5(1) was reduced from $530 to $100.

Yes. If a citizenship application for a minor under subsection 5(1) was made on or after June 19, 2017, the person who paid the $530 fee will get a refund of $430.


How will you refund the fee for my citizenship application for a minor under subsection 5(1)?

On February 14, 2018, the fee for minors applying under subsection 5(1) was reduced from $530 to $100.

The refund is automatic. You don’t need to apply for it. We’ll contact you directly if you submitted your application and paid the original fee. The person who paid the fee will get the refund.

If you paid the fee with a credit card, we’ll refund the $430 to the card used to pay the fee. If the card is expired or no longer valid, we’ll send you a cheque.

If you paid the fee with an online debit card, we’ll send you a cheque.

We’re committed to making the refunds within 12 weeks of February 14, 2018. If you don’t receive your refund by then, contact us.


I paid the $530 fee for a citizenship application for a minor under subsection 5(1), but didn’t send in my application. What do I do?

On February 14, 2018, the fee for minors applying under subsection 5(1) was reduced from $530 to $100.

If you paid the $530, but haven’t submitted your application yet, then you may request a refund for the fee. To request a refund, follow the instructions for those who paid online and applied on paper.

When you submit your application, you’ll need to pay the $100 fee. See pay your fees.


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