Canadian Citizenship After Permanent Residence

Grant of Canadian citizenship (adults)

Adult permanent residents can apply for a grant of citizenship once they have been physically present in Canada for at least 1,095 days during the five years before signing the application. Days spent in Canada as a temporary resident or protected person within that window count as half days, with the credit capped at 365 days. Applicants may need to have filed Canadian taxes for at least three of those five years. Those aged 18 to 54 must show English or French at Canadian Language Benchmark level 4 in speaking and listening, and must pass the citizenship test. Criminal and security prohibitions can bar a grant.

Physical presence

1,095 days within the 5 years before applying

Pre-PR credit

Half days, up to 365 days in total

Language

CLB 4 speaking and listening, ages 18–54

Test

Required for applicants aged 18–54

Adult fee

CAD 653 (CAD 530 processing + CAD 123 right fee)

Dual citizenship

Allowed under Canadian law

Requirements

• Hold valid permanent resident status with no unmet conditions and no removal order.
• Be physically present in Canada for at least 1,095 days in the five years before signing.
• File Canadian taxes for at least three years within that period, if required to file.
• Prove CLB 4 speaking and listening in English or French, if aged 18 to 54.
• Pass the citizenship test, if aged 18 to 54.
• Not be under a criminal or security prohibition.

How to apply

1. Count days with IRCC's physical presence tools and keep a margin above 1,095.
2. Submit the application and pay the adult fee.
3. Take the citizenship test if aged 18 to 54.
4. Attend the ceremony and take the oath of citizenship.