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Becoming a Canadian Citizen

March 14, 2021

The moment you arrive in Canada, you can start preparing to become a Canadian citizen. You will need to demonstrate a deep commitment to this country by living in Canada, learning to communicate in at least one of the official languages, learning about Canada and obeying Canadian laws.

To be eligible for Canadian citizenship:

  • You must be a permanent resident;
  • You must live in Canada for at least three years before applying to become a citizen;
  • You will need to have adequate knowledge of either English or French;
  • You will need to demonstrate your knowledge of Canada and the rights, responsibilities and privileges of citizenship;
  • You must be 18 years old or more to apply;
  • You must pass a citizenship test if you are 18 years of age or older; and
  • You must attend a citizenship ceremony and take the oath of citizenship.

Citizenship requirements and the way they are assessed are subject to change. Please check the CIC website for the most up-to-date information.

Under the current rules, adults who are 55 years old or older do not have to meet the language and knowledge requirements but are encouraged to do so.

When you apply for citizenship, you may also apply on behalf of your minor children (less than 18 years old). These minors must be permanent residents of Canada, but they are not required to meet the residency, language or knowledge requirements.

To get more information and an application kit to become a Canadian citizen, visit www.cic.gc.ca. To learn more about Canada and the meaning of Canadian citizenship, read the free study guide for the citizenship test called Discover Canada: The Rights and Responsibilities of Citizenship available online at www.discovercanada.gc.ca.

Source: Welcome to Canada: What you should know

www.cic.gc.ca, Citizenship and Immigration Canada. Reproduced with the permission of the Minister of Public Works and Government Services Canada, 2013

Index of articles

    Banking & Planning

  • 11 tips to help you get settled in Canada
  • Opening a Canadian Bank Account
  • Canadian Citizenship Documents
  • Global Money Transfers
  • Money and Finances
  • Daily Life

  • 11 tips to help you get settled in Canada
  • Things to Know About Getting medical insurance in Canada
  • How to get a Driver’s License in Canada
  • Bring out the bucket list and explore your new home!
  • 8 Things for Newcomers to Consider When Settling in Canada
  • Employment

  • Applying for a Canadian Social Insurance Number
  • How to Prepare for Your Job Interview in Canada
  • Canada’s Top 10 Occupations in Demand in 2021 and Beyond
  • Fine-tune Your Resume for Canadian Employers
  • Tips and advice about working in Canada
  • Housing

  • Which Canadian City is Right for You?
  • Renting in Canada
  • Buying a Home in Canada
  • Shipping & Moving
  • Immigration

  • Top 5 Tips for Adapting to Your New Home in Canada
  • What Newcomers or Immigrants to Canada Should Know about Workers Rights in Canada
  • Becoming a Canadian Citizen
  • Language Proficiency Tests and Certificates
  • Canadian Citizenship Documents
  • Study & Education

  • Language Proficiency Tests and Certificates
  • Improving your English and/or French
  • Post-Secondary Education
  • Elementary and Secondary Education
  • Why study in Canada?

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Located on Canada’s east coast along the Atlantic Ocean, New Brunswick offers a distinct way of life and exciting career opportunities. We value the experiences and skills of newcomers. Our provincial immigration programs allow the Government of New Brunswick to nominate individuals with the greatest ability to become economically established in New Brunswick.

New Brunswick’s combination of renowned natural beauty, lively culture, low cost of living, and laid-back vibe means that you can have the career you love with the lifestyle you want.

Get the information you need to Make Your Move to New Brunswick

Visit OpportunitiesNB or Email Immigration@gnb.ca

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