Citizenship

Q1: Once I obtain Canadian Permanent Resident status, how soon do I become eligible to apply for Canadian Citizenship?

You must have been physically present in Canada as a permanent resident for at least 1,460 days during the six years immediately before the date of your application. You must also be physically present for at least 183 days during each of four calendar years that are fully or partially within the six years immediately before the date of application. These requirements do not apply to children under 18.

Q2: Do I have to apply for Canadian Citizenship as soon as I am eligible?

No. There is no obligation to apply for Canadian Citizenship at any time.

Q3: What are some of the advantages of obtaining Canadian Citizenship?

Unlike permanent residents, Canadian citizens are allowed to be absent from Canada for extended periods of time without any risk of losing their status. Except in rare cases, Canadian citizens cannot be deported from Canada.

Canadian citizens also receive Canadian passports and are entitled to vote in federal elections.

Q4: Will time spent absent from Canada be counted towards my Citizenship application?

Unless there are exceptional circumstances, time spent outside of Canada (other than for short vacations) will not be counted towards the calculation of at least 1,460 days during six years immediately before the date of your application. You must also be physically present for at least 183 days during each of four calendar years that are fully or partially within the six years immediately before the date of application.

Q5: As a Canadian citizen, am I required to obtain a Returning Resident Permit for absences from Canada?

No. Citizens of Canada are not required to obtain Returning Resident Permits for any absence from Canada. Canadian Citizenship cannot be lost as a result of a long or permanent absence from Canada.

Q6: Can I have dual Citizenship?

Since 1977, Canada has permitted its citizens to hold dual or multi Citizenship. As a result, Canadian citizens will not lose their Canadian Citizenship if they retain their former nationality or become citizens of another country.

If you intend to become a Canadian citizen, you are advised to verify whether the country of your current nationality permits dual citizenship.

Eligibility Criteria