Every year, nearly 250,000 people try to become permanent Canadian citizens. Becoming a Canadian citizen is not as easy as being a citizen of other countries, but it is still possible if you are diligent and follow the rules of the Canadian government.
Step
Part 1 of 3: Eligibility
Step 1. Have a visa
To become a Canadian citizen, the first step to take is to move there. However, you need a visa for that. After a tourist visa which is valid for 6 months, you will need another visa such as a work visa or a school visa to remain in Canada.
Apply for any visa you can while still in your country. Often this process takes a very long time. The sooner you apply the better. For your information, you will receive 1/2 credit for every day you spent in Canada before becoming a citizen there
Step 2. Move to Canada
Once all the documents are complete, move to it. Now you can worry about more important things like finding a place to live. Be prepared to present any type of identification as proof that you have a residence permit. Otherwise, you will become an illegal resident.
Step 3. Get the "Maple Leaf Card
" Maple leaf card is another name for Canadian citizen card. If you only have a student or work visa, you will need to replace it. This card allows you to stay in Canada as long as possible.
Of course there are some paperwork to be met, costs, and waiting times. This is mandatory. You cannot change a temporary visa directly to a citizen card. Visit the Canadian immigration website for more information
Step 4. Stay for 1095 days
If you are a permanent Country colour, you must be able to show proof that you have lived for 1095 days in Canada in the last 4 years. These 1095 days don't have to be consecutive. They will check your passport for this.
- As previously mentioned, you will receive 1/2 day credit for each day you spent in Canada before becoming a Canadian citizen.
- Today's 1095 rule does not apply to those under 18 years of age.
Step 5. Be able to speak French or English to communicate effectively
It is required to be a Canadian citizen because the citizens of that country speak this language. When the time comes, you will be given an oral test. If you do not pass, you will not become a Canadian citizen. Don't worry about specific knowledge, they only care about everyday language.
If English and French are not your native languages, Canadian immigration websites have a list of documents they accept as proof that you have passed the language requirements. These will be required as part of your citizenship application
Step 6. Make sure Canada wants you there
If Canada asks you to leave Canada, this is a sign that they don't want you there. A criminal record can also get in your way. If you were in prison or on probation in the 3 years prior to your application, you will be rejected. However, once your record is clear, you can try to apply again.
You are not allowed to be in the status of a criminal investigation. You certainly cannot file an application if you are under police investigation. Basically, stay away from any crime and you'll be fine
Step 7. Know and love Canada
Part of the test to become a Canadian citizen is to show how much you know about Canada. When you apply, they will send you a booklet of sorts for you to study. What you need to know you can also find on the internet.
- Apart from Wayne Gretsky, Justin Bieber, Jim Carrey, maple syrup, beaver, hockey, Celine Dion, beer, mountains, and bacon, we also thank Canada for the Trivial Pursuit, TV, telephone, basketball, and electron microscope. Did we mention free medical treatment and government hospitals that never close?
- You need to know about Canadian history. This includes values, institutions and symbols. To be more specific, try visiting their site which will provide a comprehensive list of what you need to know about Canada.
Part 2 of 3: Completing the Application
Step 1. Download the Canadian citizen App from the Canadian immigration site
When you have downloaded the application, fill it out immediately. Make sure you read the instructions so you are sure you filled in correctly.
Included in the application is a list of documents. Make sure you have everything you need in the correct format. If you do not fill in correctly or include everything required, the application will be sent back to you. You will be easily frustrated when this happens, so make sure you read it properly
Step 2. Make photocopies of all documents
Usually, the citizenship office does not require original documents. If you send the original, you won't have it at the actual interview. Take a checklist of documents and make sure you have them all. Just in case, make a photocopy of your photocopy.
You will need photocopies of your transcripts, school records, travel notes, your Maple Leaf Card, your ID, and proof of language proficiency
Step 3. Pay the required fees
This fee will be mentioned in the instruction manual. This fee is non-refundable and must be paid each time you make this application. In 2013, the fee was $200 CAD and must be paid in Canadian currency.
Highly recommended if you complete this online. However, you can pay through a Canadian financial institution. If you decide to pay directly you need to fill in the payment form (IMM 5401). The cashier will take care of this and then return your form to be included with your application
Step 4. Read the photo instructions in the instruction manual
Make sure you have two photos taken as required. A full list of photo specs can be found here. Write your name under each photo and include this in your citizenship application.
Step 5. Complete the application with all required documents
Check again and again. If it is complete, send it to the address listed in the instruction manual. The address is:
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Case Processing Center – Sydney
Grant Adults
P. O. Box 7000
SYDNEY, NS
B1P 6V6
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If you ship by courier, the address is:
Case Processing Centre, Sydney
Grant Adults
49 Dorchester Street
Sydney, Nova Scotia
B1P 5Z2
Part 3 of 3: Confirming citizenship
Step 1. Study the booklet entitled "Discover Canada: The Rights and Responsibilities of Citizenship." This booklet will be sent to you upon receipt of your application. However, it is also available in an online PDF format and an audio version read by native Canadians. They've thought of everything.
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In the citizenship test, there are several questions about the political system in Canada, geography, and history. You must pass this test to become a Canadian citizen. All information is available in the booklet.
Audio versions are available in English and French, which are sadly not read by Howie Mandel, Leonhard Cohen, or Avril Lavigne
Step 2. Wait for the decision making process
This takes time. CPC will send your application to the nearest CIC to ensure the fastest delivery. You may be asked to come to the office to review your documents. Bring your originals.
From the moment they receive your application until you actually become a Canadian citizen, it will take about 25 months. If something is missing from your application, it can be up to 35 months. Good things come to those who are willing to wait
Step 3. Receive notifications about your interview and citizenship test
Once your application begins processing, you will receive a "Notice to Appear" for your interview. Come at the time and place mentioned. Your interview is basically the same as the test questions.
If you don't speak English and French, this will also act as a test of your language. The examiner will determine whether you are worthy or not
Step 4. Be present for your Citizen oath
This will also be notified to you by mail. This letter will say where and when you must perform this oath. Receiving this notification means that you have passed the test and interview.
You will receive a Canadian Citizen Certificate at the celebration. So don't miss this. After everything you've done, it's finally here. What you have to do is come and take the oath. It's time to celebrate your success
Step 5. Know the situation
You will have dual citizenship or will have to renounce your original nationality. If you are an American citizen, the fee is $450 along with other documents. Aside from the cost, here's what you should consider:
- If you have dual citizenship, there are advantages and disadvantages. Make sure you are comfortable with all these legal requirements. These requirements vary by country, do your research.
- If you renounce your citizenship, it is not an easy thing to take back. Make sure you are absolutely sure before doing it.
Tips
- If your application is not approved, this form will be sent back to you.
- You can check the progress of your application online.
- If you need to fill out a form for children, you can fill it with your own (or once you become a Canadian citizen). The fee is $100.
