Citizenship at a Glance — 2026
✅ Quick Eligibility Check
Full Eligibility Requirements (Adults)
| Requirement | Rule | Exemption |
|---|---|---|
| PR Status | Must be a valid PR. Cannot be under a removal order or immigration investigation. | — |
| Physical Presence | Minimum 1,095 days (3 years) physically in Canada within 5 years before applying | Time as protected person or temp resident (after Apr 17, 2009) counts at half rate |
| Income Tax Filing | Must have filed taxes for at least 3 of the 5 years before applying (if obligated to file) | If you had no income obligation to file, declare accordingly |
| Language Proficiency | English or French at CLB Level 4 minimum (IELTS, CELPIP, TEF) | Exempt if under 18 or 55+ |
| Citizenship Knowledge Test | Pass a 20-question test on Canadian history, values, rights and responsibilities (based on Discover Canada guide) | Exempt if under 18 or 55+ |
| No Criminal Prohibitions | No outstanding charges, on probation, in prison, or under a removal order | — |
Application Steps — CIT 0002 (Adults)
- Verify Eligibility:
Confirm you meet all 5 requirements above. Calculate your physical presence using IRCC's online Presence Calculator.
- Gather Documents:
Completed CIT 0002 form; valid PR card; passport; travel history records; tax filing proof (NOA); 2 passport photos; language test results (if required).
- Pay the Fee:
Pay $653 CAD online (processing fee $530 + right of citizenship fee $100 + biometrics $23). Fee for minors is $100.
- Submit Online:
Apply through the IRCC Secure Portal. IRCC strongly recommends online submission over paper applications for faster processing.
- Biometrics Appointment:
If requested by IRCC, attend a biometrics appointment at a Service Canada Centre. This is now standard for most applicants.
- Citizenship Knowledge Test:
If you are 18–54, you'll be invited to write the test — 20 multiple choice questions based on the free "Discover Canada" study guide. Pass mark is 75% (15/20).
- Citizenship Interview (if needed):
Some applicants are called for an interview if IRCC has questions about language proficiency, physical presence, or other requirements.
- Citizenship Ceremony:
Once approved, you are invited to take the Oath of Citizenship at a ceremony — either in person or virtually. You receive your Citizenship Certificate immediately after.
2026 Fee Breakdown — Adult Application
| Fee Component | Amount (CAD) |
|---|---|
| Processing Fee | $530 |
| Right of Citizenship Fee | $100 |
| Biometrics Fee | $23 |
| Total (Adult) | $653 |
| Minor (under 18) | $100 (no Right of Citizenship fee) |
⚠️ Fees are non-refundable if your application is returned as incomplete or you withdraw it. Only the Right of Citizenship fee may be refunded if you are found ineligible before swearing the oath.
🔗 Useful Links & Official References
⏱️ Processing Time Reality Check
Current mid-2026 processing times are 12–19 months. The timeline runs from receipt of your complete application to the citizenship ceremony. Your application can be paused if IRCC requires additional documents, which may extend the wait. Apply online to avoid mail delays.
📖 Study for the Test
The citizenship knowledge test is 20 questions based on the Discover Canada guide. Practice with our quiz:
Take Practice QuizDownload Discover Canada PDF🗓️ Key Age-Based Exemptions
| Age | Exempt From |
|---|---|
| Under 18 | Language test & knowledge test |
| 55 and over | Language test & knowledge test |
| 18–54 | No exemptions — both required |