More often than not, Canadian permanent residents will eventually apply for Canadian citizenship. There are many requirements that one must meet to apply for Canadian citizenship. These include:
- Be a permanent resident
- Physically reside in Canada for at least 3 years in the last 5 years
- File your taxes
- Pass the citizenship test
- Demonstrate language proficiency in English or French
Recently the Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship (IRCC) launched an online portal to allow citizenship applicants to submit their applications online. This portal has been available for the following applicants from August 11, 2021:
- Single citizenship applicants
- Applicants with no representative
- Applicants who are not residing outside Canada as a Crown servant or a family member of a Crown servant
The IRCC is working on making this portal available to families, minor applicants under the age of 18, representatives of applicants and servants of the crown residing outside Canada, and their family members.
How Are Citizenship Applications Processed and What Else Is Involved?
The processing time for citizenship applications is calculated from the time you submit your application online, by mail, or in person. Once your completed application is submitted, you will receive the Acknowledgement of Receipt (AOR) which will contain your Unique Client Identifier (UCI). This indicates that your application is being processed.
In case your application is missing any information or documents, the IRCC will either request additional documentation or return your application. Then you will have to resubmit your completed application.
