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Permanent residence & citizenship

Canadian Canadian Citizenship (Naturalisation)

The process by which eligible permanent residents can become Canadian citizens by meeting residence, language and knowledge requirements.

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Important information

Immigration rules and fees can change. This information is for general guidance only and does not constitute legal advice. Always check the latest requirements on the official Canada government website before you apply.
On this page
Official name
Grant of Canadian citizenship (naturalisation)
Route type
Citizenship for existing permanent residents
Physical presence
At least 1,095 days (3 years) in the 5 years before applying
Status requirement
Valid permanent resident status (no unfulfilled conditions)
Language and test
Required for applicants aged 18-54; those 55+ and minors are exempt

Who it is for

  • Permanent residents who have lived in Canada long enough to meet the physical presence rule
  • Adults and minor children applying (minors usually apply with or after a parent)

Requirements

  • Have valid permanent resident status
  • Have been physically present in Canada at least 1,095 days in the past five years
  • Have filed income taxes if required, for the relevant years
  • Meet the language requirement and pass the citizenship test (ages 18-54)

What you can do

  • Become a Canadian citizen, gaining the right to a Canadian passport and to vote
  • Adults take the oath of citizenship (minors under 14 are not required to take the oath)

How to apply

  • Use the physical presence calculator and gather supporting documents
  • Apply online where eligible (some applicants must apply on paper)
  • Take the citizenship test (if required) and, for adults, attend the oath of citizenship

Official sources

For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always refer to the official government sources.

Verified against official gov.uk sources · last reviewed 2026-08-21. Information only — not legal advice.

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