Step-by-Step Canadian Citizenship Checklist for New Applicants

Applying for Canadian citizenship is a proud and exciting moment for many immigrants who have made Canada their home. But before you begin the application process, it’s important to know exactly what is required. This step-by-step checklist will walk you through everything you need to prepare for a successful Canadian citizenship application. Whether you’re doing it on your own or looking for help, following this checklist will help you avoid delays and increase your chances of approval.

✅ Step 1: Check Your Eligibility

Before applying, you must confirm that you meet all the basic eligibility requirements. You can apply for Canadian citizenship if:

• You’re a permanent resident of Canada
• You’ve been physically present in Canada for at least 1,095 days (3 years) in the last 5 years
• You’ve filed taxes in Canada for at least 3 of the last 5 years (if required under the Income Tax Act)
• You can communicate in English or French (for applicants aged 18–54)
• You’re not under a removal order, involved in a criminal proceeding, or serving a sentence

Tip: Don’t apply unless you fully meet these criteria. Otherwise, your application may be rejected and the fee is non-refundable.

✅ Step 2: Calculate Your Physical Presence

You must have been physically present in Canada for at least 1,095 days out of the 5 years before the day you apply.

Use IRCC’s online physical presence calculator to count your days accurately. You’ll need to enter:

• Your dates of travel outside Canada
• Dates you became a permanent resident
• Any time spent as a temporary resident (which counts as half days, up to 365 days max)

Print and include the final calculation result with your application package.

✅ Step 3: Gather Required Documents

Collect all the necessary documents to prove your eligibility. The typical document checklist includes:

• PR card or Confirmation of Permanent Residence
• Passports and travel documents (valid and expired) covering the last 5 years
• Language proof (for ages 18–54), such as:
  • IELTS or CELPIP test results
  • Proof of completed secondary or post-secondary education in English or French
• Tax documents: CRA Notices of Assessment or printouts for 3 years
• 2 pieces of ID (e.g., driver’s license, health card)
• Photographs that meet IRCC’s specifications
• Payment receipt for the application fee

Ensure that all documents are clear, translated (if needed), and up to date.

✅ Step 4: Complete the Application Form (CIT 0002)

Download and fill out the latest Application for Canadian Citizenship – Adults (CIT 0002) form from the official IRCC website. Some helpful tips:

• Use capital letters and black ink if filling by hand
• Be honest and thorough in your answers
• Double-check dates and travel information
• Sign and date where required

If your application is missing a signature or critical information, IRCC will return it without processing.

✅ Step 5: Pay the Application Fee

The current Canadian citizenship fee (as of 2025) is:

• $630 for adult applicants (18 and over)
• $100 for minors (under 18)

Pay online through IRCC’s payment portal and include a printed receipt in your application package.

✅ Step 6: Mail Your Application

Once your forms and documents are ready, mail your complete application package to the address provided by IRCC. We recommend:

• Using a tracked courier service
• Keeping a copy of everything you send
• Including only what is required (avoid sending original passports)

✅ Step 7: Prepare for the Citizenship Test

Applicants between the ages of 18 and 54 will be asked to take a citizenship test covering Canadian history, rights, responsibilities, and more. The test is typically:

• 20 multiple-choice questions
• 30 minutes
• Requires at least 15 correct answers to pass

Use IRCC’s official study guide, “Discover Canada,” which is available online in text and audio formats.

✅ Step 8: Attend Interview and Take the Oath

Depending on your case, IRCC may invite you to:

• Attend an interview with a citizenship official
• Provide more documents
• Take the citizenship test
• Attend the Oath of Citizenship ceremony

Once you take the oath, congratulations—you’re officially a Canadian citizen!

Final Tips for New Applicants

• Double-check your application before mailing it
• Use the online tools IRCC provides to track your progress
• Respond quickly to any IRCC requests for additional documents or clarification
• Stay informed about current processing times and policy updates

Need Help With Your Citizenship Application?

If you want expert help reviewing your documents, filling out forms, or calculating your eligibility, visit us today. Our team is here to make the process smooth, accurate, and stress-free.