Citizenship Refusals

Canadian Citizenship by Naturalization — Latest Requirements

To qualify for citizenship through naturalization, permanent residents may apply once they have accumulated at least 3 years (1,095 days) of qualifying physical presence in Canada within the preceding 5 years.

Canadian Citizenship Requirements

• Physically present in Canada for at least 183 days during each of the 3 qualifying years within the 5-year period.
• Filed income taxes for any 3 taxation years that fall fully or partially within the last 5 years.
• Intend to reside in Canada, OR work outside Canada with/for:
  • the Canadian Armed Forces,
  • the federal public administration,
  • the public service of a province,
  or accompany a spouse/parent who is doing so.
• Ability to communicate in English or French (not required if age 65+).
• Knowledge of Canada, its history, values, laws, and symbols (not required if age 65+).
• Be 18 years of age or older to apply as an adult.
• Meet the Citizenship Language Requirement (ages 14–64).

Minor Application (Under 18 Years)

Minors may apply for citizenship if they are a permanent resident and have a parent who is either a Canadian citizen or applying for citizenship at the same time. No language test or knowledge test is required for minors.

Who Is Ineligible for Citizenship

• Individuals under a removal order.
• Those with certain criminal charges or convictions in Canada or abroad.
• Applicants who previously had citizenship refused for misrepresentation.
• Individuals whose Canadian citizenship was revoked.

Processing of Citizenship Applications

Applications are submitted to the Case Processing Centre in Sydney, Nova Scotia. After completeness checks and eligibility review, applicants are typically scheduled for:

• a citizenship knowledge test (if required),
• an interview with a citizenship officer,
• and final oath ceremony upon approval.

Average processing time is around 12 months, though this may vary.

Citizenship Language Requirement (Ages 14–64)

Applicants must show speaking and listening skills in English or French at a minimum of CLB/NCLC 4. They must be able to:

• Participate in short, daily conversations.
• Understand simple instructions.
• Use basic grammar and vocabulary in spoken communication.

Accepted Proof of Language Ability

• Results of an IRCC-approved language test (IELTS, CELPIP, TEF, TEFAQ).
• Diploma or transcripts showing secondary or post-secondary study in English or French.
• Government-funded language program results showing CLB/NCLC 4+.
• Expired language test results used previously for permanent residence are also accepted.

Citizenship Refusal & Appeals

If your application is refused, you may appeal to the Federal Court. A Notice of Application must be filed within 30 days of receiving the refusal.

Need Help?

If you require assistance with the Canadian citizenship application, document preparation, or reviewing your eligibility, contact us. We can guide you through every step.