Canada offers its residents free health care, an accepting and friendly culture, terrific nature, and the ability to build their lives and grow their careers in one of the most successful countries that have ever existed. A Canadian passport is ranked in the top 5 in the world, its holders can visit 185 countries and territories without a visa or with a visa on arrival. So, it is no wonder why Canadian citizenship is one of the most desired. The question is, how can one obtain it?
Eligibility
To become a naturalized citizen of Canada, applicants must:
- have permanent resident status;
- reside in Canada for at least three years (1,095 days) out of the previous five years;
- have filed personal income taxes for at least three years within the five-year period (if required under the Income Tax Act);
- demonstrate knowledge of Canadian history, as well as proficiency in English or French (for applicants between 18 and 54 years of age);
- and not be under a removal order.
Recent changes
The requirements for Canadian citizenship and the application processes were most recently amended in June 2017. As a result of these amendments, the number of days an individual must spend as a resident before becoming eligible for citizenship was reduced. Moreover, applicants who previously spent time on temporary status in Canada are now able to count some of that time towards the eligibility requirements.
Application process
Applying for Canadian citizenship involves:
- filling a formal application to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC);
- completing a special test;
- paying Canadian citizenship fees (Adults (18 years and older) pay $00 CAD. This amount combines $530.00 CAD of the processing fee and $100.00 CAD of the right of citizenship fee. Minors (under 18 years old) pay just $100.00 CAD of the processing fee);
- and, an interview (in some cases you might be sent one or more of these notices: notice to appear for a citizenship test, notice to appear for an interview with the official, notice to appear for a hearing with an IRCC officer or a judge);
- waiting for the decision (current processing times for the Canadian citizenship application is 5 months, this may vary).
What happens next?
In the case of a positive decision, successful applicants must then attend a ceremony where they receive a certificate of Canadian citizenship and officially become new Canadian citizens.
Performance Immigration will help you to become a Canada citizen. Contact us for details!