CITIZENSHIP

Before you apply, be sure you are eligible the day before you sign and date your application. There is no refund of the processing fee if you apply before you are eligible for citizenship.

You could lose your present nationality or citizenship if you become a Canadian citizen. If you have any questions about this, you may consult us.

Who can apply to become a Canadian citizen?

You must:

• be a permanent resident (landed immigrant) in Canada;
• have resided in Canada for a total of 3 years (1095 days) out of the 4 years on the day before you apply;
• know enough English or French to carry on a simple conversation;
• know enough about Canada’s history, geography, government, and the rights and responsibilities of citizenship to pass a test (adults 60 years of age and over are exempt)

Under some situations, you may still apply for citizenship even though you do not have 1095 days in Canada. Contact us for more information.

How to calculate residence

The Citizenship Act requires a person to reside in Canada 1095 days (3 years) in the 4 years immediately before the date of the application. You may count ½ time (up to a maximum of 730 half days which equals 365 days) for the time you resided in Canada before you became a permanent resident. The time you resided in Canada after you became a permanent resident counts as full time. Remember, you count only the last 4 years. For example, if you apply for citizenship on November 1, 2003 you calculate your time in Canada from November 1, 1999. Any time in Canada before November 1, 1999 is not counted.

Contact us for a free preliminary consultation on how to calculate residence.

Criminal record may affect your residence and your eligibility for Canadian Citizenship. If you think this may apply to you, please contact us.