Step-by-Step Canadian Citizenship Application Checklist



Becoming a Canadian citizen is an exciting milestone, but the application process can feel overwhelming. To help you navigate it smoothly, we've created this step-by-step Canadian citizenship application checklist to ensure you meet all requirements and submit a complete, error-free application. Click here

If you're ready to apply, follow this guide to avoid common mistakes, gather the necessary documents, and track your progress toward Canadian citizenship.

1. Check Your Eligibility for Canadian Citizenship

Before you begin, ensure you meet the basic eligibility requirements:

✔️ Permanent Resident (PR) Status – You must be a PR and have no unfulfilled conditions on your status.
✔️ Physical Presence in Canada – You must have lived in Canada for at least 1,095 days (3 years) in the past 5 years before applying.
✔️ Tax Filing – If required, you must have filed taxes for at least 3 out of the last 5 years.
✔️ Language Proficiency – If you're between 18-54 years old, you must demonstrate proficiency in English or French (CLB Level 4 or higher).
✔️ No Criminal Ineligibility – Certain criminal convictions may make you ineligible.

📌 Tip: Use the official Physical Presence Calculator on the Government of Canada website to check if you qualify!

2. Gather the Required Documents

Here’s a checklist of all the documents you need to include with your Canadian citizenship application:

Personal Identification & Immigration Documents

✔️ PR Card (Valid or Expired) OR Record of Landing (IMM 1000)
✔️ Valid Passport(s) or Travel Document(s) covering the last 5 years
✔️ Identification (Driver’s License, PR Card, or Provincial ID)

Proof of Physical Presence in Canada

✔️ Travel History – List of trips outside Canada in the past 5 years
✔️ Employment or Study Records – If applicable, documents proving residency
✔️ Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) Notices of Assessment for tax years filed

Language Proof (For Applicants 18-54 Years Old)

✔️ CELPIP, IELTS, or TEF Test Results (CLB Level 4 or higher)
✔️ High School or Post-Secondary Diploma in English/French
✔️ Proof of Completion of Government-Funded English/French Program

Additional Documents (If Applicable)

✔️ Name Change Documents (If your legal name has changed)
✔️ Police Clearance (If you’ve lived outside Canada for 183+ days in the past 4 years)
✔️ Custody Documents (If applying for minors with shared custody)

📌 Tip: Ensure all documents are clear and legible copies. You may be asked for original documents later.

3. Complete the Canadian Citizenship Application Form (CIT 0002)

The Citizenship Application Form (CIT 0002) is the main form required for your application. Here’s how to fill it out correctly:

✔️ Use the latest version of the form (download from the official IRCC website).
✔️ Answer all questions truthfully and completely.
✔️ List all addresses, employment, and travel details for the past 5 years.
✔️ Double-check dates and spelling to avoid errors that could delay your application.

📌 Tip: If applying for a minor (under 18), use form CIT 0003 instead.

4. Pay the Citizenship Application Fee

The processing fee must be paid online before submitting your application. Here’s the current fee structure:

💰 Adult (18 and older) – $630 CAD
💰 Minor (under 18) – $100 CAD

✔️ Payment must be made on the official IRCC payment website.
✔️ Save and print the receipt as proof of payment.

📌 Tip: Fees are non-refundable, even if your application is denied.

5. Submit Your Application (Online or by Mail)

Option 1: Online Submission (Recommended)

✔️ Upload all documents and forms using the IRCC online portal.
✔️ Make sure scanned copies are clear and in PDF, JPG, or PNG format.
✔️ Submit and receive confirmation instantly.

Option 2: Paper Submission (By Mail)

✔️ Print and sign your application (use black ink).
✔️ Organize documents in order (as per IRCC guidelines).
✔️ Mail your package to the IRCC processing center using a trackable method.

📌 Mailing Address:
Case Processing Centre – Sydney
Citizenship Grants
P.O. Box 7000
Sydney, NS B1P 6V6
Canada

📌 Tip: Double-check your application before sending to avoid delays or rejections.

6. Track Your Citizenship Application Status

After submitting your application, you can track your status online using:

✔️ IRCC Online Status Tracker – You’ll receive an application number to log in.
✔️ Email Updates from IRCC – Watch for any additional document requests.

📌 Processing Time: It typically takes 12-24 months to complete the citizenship process.

7. Prepare for the Canadian Citizenship Test & Interview

If you're between 18-54 years old, you must pass the Canadian citizenship test. Here’s what to expect:

✔️ 20 multiple-choice questions on Canada’s history, government, geography, and rights.
✔️ 75% passing score required (15/20 correct answers).
✔️ If you fail, you get another chance or may have to attend an interview.

📌 Tip: Study the official “Discover Canada” guide and take practice tests online.

8. Attend the Citizenship Ceremony & Take the Oath

If you pass the test and your application is approved, you’ll receive an invitation to attend a citizenship ceremony.

✔️ You’ll take the Oath of Citizenship.
✔️ Receive your Canadian citizenship certificate.
✔️ Officially become a Canadian citizen! 🎉

📌 Tip: After becoming a citizen, you can apply for a Canadian passport immediately!

Final Thoughts: Get Ready to Become a Canadian Citizen!

✅ Check your eligibility before applying.
✅ Gather all necessary documents to avoid delays.
✅ Fill out the application form correctly and double-check your details.
✅ Pay the correct fees and keep the receipt.
✅ Submit your application online for faster processing.
✅ Prepare for the citizenship test and be ready for the ceremony.

By following this Canadian citizenship application checklist, you’ll ensure a smooth process and be one step closer to officially calling Canada your home!

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