citizenship
The Canadian passport is considered to be one of the most powerful in the world. Being a Canadian citizen has numerous advantages. Canadians are warmly welcomed into the countries and are free to travel anywhere in the world without the need for a visa. Citizenship in Canada entitles you to vote in federal and provincial elections. A permanent resident has fewer rights and advantages than a Canadian citizen. To be eligible for Canadian citizenship, you must meet the following requirements:
Eligibility:
- Become a permanent resident of Canada
- 3 of the last 5 years have lived in Canada
- If applicable, you have to file taxes for 3 out of the last 5 years
- Prove your language skills. (CLB 4 or higher)
- Pass an exam about your Canadian rights, duties and knowledge.
- Applicants may not have a criminal history that is considered prohibitive for granting Canadian citizenship
Who can apply for Canadian citizenship?
You must be a permanent resident of Canada and have resided in Canada for 1,095 days (3 years) in the five years prior to applying for Canadian citizenship.
Some of your time in Canada may be counted in calculating your physical presence as a temporary resident or protected person.
Is it necessary for me to take an English or French test in order to apply for Canadian citizenship?
Yes, you must show confirmation that you can speak and hear in English or French at the Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) of 4 if you are between the ages of 18 and 54.
Prepare for the citizenship test
To become a citizen, you must take a test to meet the knowledge requirement for citizenship if you are between 18 and 54 years of age. You will be required to answer questions about Canada’s values, history, symbols, institutions and the rights, responsibilities and privileges of citizenship, such as voting in elections and obeying the law.