Charting your course to Canadian Citizenship: An Ahlawat Law PC guide

Becoming a Canadian citizen is a significant aspiration for many permanent residents, marking the final step in their journey to make Canada their permanent home. This esteemed status grants a host of rights and privileges, including the right to vote, hold a Canadian passport, and enjoy the security of full citizenship. At Ahlawat LAW PC, we are committed to providing clear and accurate information to help you navigate this important process.

This guide draws directly from official Government of Canada sources to outline the steps and requirements for obtaining Canadian citizenship.

Are You Eligible? Key Criteria from IRCC

Before you begin your application, it’s essential to meet the eligibility criteria set out by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). As per the official guidelines:

• Permanent Resident Status: You must be a permanent resident of Canada. This means you must not be under review for immigration or fraud reasons, have unfulfilled conditions related to your PR status, or be subject to a removal order.
• Physical Presence: You must have been physically present in Canada for at least 1,095 days (3 years) during the 5 years immediately before you sign your application.
  • Time spent in Canada as a temporary resident or protected person before becoming a permanent resident can count as one half day, up to a maximum of 365 days, towards your physical presence requirement.
  • IRCC provides an online Physical Presence Calculator to help you with this calculation. It’s recommended to apply with more than the minimum 1,095 days to account for any potential miscalculations.
• Income Tax Filing: You must have filed income taxes, if required to do so under the Income Tax Act, for at least 3 of the 5 years preceding your application.
• Language Abilities: If you are between 18 and 54 years of age on the date you sign your application, you must show that you have adequate knowledge of either English or French. This typically means meeting the Canadian Language Benchmarks (CLB) / Niveaux de compétence linguistique canadiens (NCLC) Level 4 in speaking and listening. Proof can include:
  • Results of an IRCC-approved third-party language test.
  • A diploma or transcripts from a secondary or post-secondary program completed in English or French, in Canada or abroad.
  • Proof of achieving CLB/NCLC Level 4 or higher through certain government-funded language training programs.
• Knowledge of Canada: If you are between 18 and 54 years of age, you must pass a citizenship test. The test covers:
  • The rights and responsibilities of Canadian citizens.
  • Canada’s history, geography, economy, government, laws, and symbols.
  • The official study guide is “Discover Canada: The Rights and Responsibilities of Citizenship.”
• Prohibitions: You may not be eligible if you have a criminal record or are under a removal order, are being investigated for, are charged with, or have been convicted of certain crimes, or if you are otherwise prohibited under Canada’s citizenship laws.

Your Pathway to Citizenship: The Application Process

The application process for Canadian citizenship involves several key steps, as outlined by IRCC:

1. Obtain the Application Package: Download the correct application package from the IRCC website. There are different packages depending on your situation (e.g., adult, minor, Canadian Armed Forces member). The package includes an instruction guide and all necessary forms.
2. Calculate Your Physical Presence: Use the online Physical Presence Calculator available on the IRCC website. Print a copy of your calculation to include with your application. The date of your calculation must match the date you sign your application form.
3. Gather Required Documents: Carefully consult the document checklist (CIT 0007 for adults) specific to your application package. Commonly required documents include:
   • The completed application form(s).
   • The printout of your online physical presence calculation.
   • Colour photocopies of all pages of your passport(s) or travel document(s) for the 5-year eligibility period.
   • Photocopies of two pieces of personal identification (e.g., PR card, driver’s licence).
   • Proof of your English or French language skills (if you are 18 to 54 years old).
   • Two identical citizenship photos meeting IRCC’s specifications.
   • Other documents as specified in the checklist, such as birth certificates or marriage certificates if applicable.
4. Pay the Fees: Citizenship fees must be paid online through the IRCC website. As of early 2025, the fee for an adult citizenship application (18 and over) is $649.75 CAD. This includes a $530 processing fee and a $119.75 Right of Citizenship Fee. The fee for a minor (under 18) is $100 CAD. Always verify the current fees on the official IRCC website before paying. Print the receipt and include it with your application.
5. Submit Your Application: Most applicants can now apply online. However, some situations still require a paper application mailed to the designated IRCC office. The instruction guide will specify how and where to submit your application. Ensure your application is complete and signed. Incomplete applications may be returned, causing delays.

After You Apply: What to Expect

Once IRCC receives your complete application:

• Acknowledgement of Receipt (AOR): You will typically receive an AOR.
• Citizenship Test and Interview (if applicable): If you are between 18 and 54 years old, you will be scheduled for a citizenship test. The test is usually written (multiple choice and true/false questions) and taken online, though in-person or oral tests may be offered under specific circumstances. You must answer at least 15 out of 20 questions correctly to pass. IRCC may also request an interview with a citizenship official to verify information or assess language skills.
• Decision: IRCC will review your application, test results, and any other relevant information to make a decision.
• Citizenship Ceremony (Oath of Citizenship): If your application is approved and you meet all requirements (including passing the test, if applicable), you will be invited to attend a citizenship ceremony. At the ceremony, you will take the Oath of Citizenship, which is the final step to becoming a Canadian citizen. Applicants aged 14 and over must attend the ceremony and take the oath.

Processing Times

According to the IRCC website, the general processing time for a routine citizenship application is approximately 10 months from the time a complete application is received. However, processing times can vary depending on factors such as the volume of applications, the complexity of your case, how easily IRCC can verify your information, and how quickly you respond to any requests from IRCC. You can check current processing times on the IRCC website.

Why Choose Ahlawat LAW PC?

Navigating the Canadian citizenship process can be intricate. While this guide provides an overview based on official information, individual circumstances can vary. Ahlawat LAW PC offers professional legal services to help you understand your eligibility, prepare a thorough and accurate application, and address any complexities that may arise.

Disclaimer: This blog post is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Immigration laws and procedures are subject to change. Please consult the official Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website or contact Ahlawat Law PC for advice tailored to your specific situation.