Canadian Citizenship Application

Canadian Citizenship

An application for Canadian citizenship involves several steps. Pilkington Immigration in St. Catharines, ON can help you navigate the process and help you understand the requirements for citizenship. To become a Canadian citizen, you must meet the following qualifications:

  • be a permanent resident
  • have lived in Canada for 3 out of the last 5 years
  • have filed your taxes, if you need to
  • pass a test on your rights, responsibilities and knowledge of Canada
  • prove your language skills (if you are between the ages of 18 and 54 only)

For children who were adopted or born abroad and whose parents are Canadian citizens born in Canada, a separate Canadian Proof of Citizenship application is required.

Canadian Citizenship

Canadian Citizenship Test

Once your application has been approved, you may need to take a citizenship test. The citizenship test is designed to allow you to demonstrate what you know about Canada.

There are 20 questions which cover:

  • Rights and Responsibilities of Canadians
  • History
  • Geography
  • Economy
  • Government
  • Laws
  • Symbols

The test is administered in either French or English and is 30 minutes long. The test is both multiple-choice and true/false questions. During COVID-19 pandemic this test has been administered online and will continue to do so until further notice. You will be invited to take the citizenship test after receiving confirmation that your completed application has started being processed. After the test, you will meet with an official for an interview.

Oath of Citizenship

The oath of citizenship is the final stage of citizenship process. You will typically receive your ceremony date two weeks before the ceremony. If you are unable to attend, you will need to provide a reason as to why you cannot attend and a new date can be scheduled. Adults and children 14 or older need to attend the citizenship ceremony and take the oath. Children under 14 are able to attend the ceremony but are not required to swear the oath. During COVID-19 this ceremony has been conducted online and will continue until further notice.

Parent/Guardian Applying for Minor

The application under subsection 5(2) is intended for minors (persons under the age of 18) who are permanent residents of Canada who are applying at the same time as their parent or who already have a Canadian parent.

Minor Without Canadian Parent

This application under subsection is intended for minors (under 18) who are permanent residents and do not have a parent applying for citizenship at the same time as them, and do not already have a Canadian parent. This application must be made by a person who has custody of the minor or who is empowered to act on their behalf by virtue of a court order or written agreement or by operation of law. The authorized person applying on behalf of the minor does not have to be a Canadian citizen. Minors who do not have an authorized person to apply on their behalf can request a waiver of this requirement on the application form.

Client Reviews

Pilkington team: A big thanks to all staff for the help and support during Donna’s journey to Canadian citizenship.

Al Fergusson

The firm was extremely helpful in all aspects. Definitely appreciated having experts guiding me with all of the important details to get a successful result. Thanks again!

Cyril Maqsood

Lawyer Mr. Yosheel was highly recommended for the best global mobility immigration. We could not agree more!

Kharoud Manveer

Contact Us Today for Help With Your Case

With offices in four countries for businesses and individuals seeking solutions to their immigration needs to the United States or Canada, the team at Pilkington Immigration in St. Catharines, ON has the expertise and ability to find global solutions to local needs.

Call us today at 844-728-1012 or Request an Appointment for a free five-minute consultation.