The moment you arrive in Canada, you can start preparing to become a Canadian citizen. You will need to demonstrate a deep commitment to this country by living in Canada, learning to communicate in at least one of the official languages, learning about Canada and obeying Canadian laws.
To be eligible for Canadian citizenship:
- You must be a permanent resident;
- You must live in Canada for at least three years before applying to become a citizen;
- You will need to have adequate knowledge of either English or French;
- You will need to demonstrate your knowledge of Canada and the rights, responsibilities and privileges of citizenship;
- You must be 18 years old or more to apply;
- You must pass a citizenship test if you are 18 years of age or older; and
- You must attend a citizenship ceremony and take the oath of citizenship.
Citizenship requirements and the way they are assessed are subject to change. Please check the CIC website for the most up-to-date information.
Under the current rules, adults who are 55 years old or older do not have to meet the language and knowledge requirements but are encouraged to do so.
When you apply for citizenship, you may also apply on behalf of your minor children (less than 18 years old). These minors must be permanent residents of Canada, but they are not required to meet the residency, language or knowledge requirements.
To get more information and an application kit to become a Canadian citizen, visit www.cic.gc.ca. To learn more about Canada and the meaning of Canadian citizenship, read the free study guide for the citizenship test called Discover Canada: The Rights and Responsibilities of Citizenship available online at www.discovercanada.gc.ca.
Source: Welcome to Canada: What you should know
www.cic.gc.ca, Citizenship and Immigration Canada. Reproduced with the permission of the Minister of Public Works and Government Services Canada, 2013
