Maple News reports that more than 80% of Canadian permanent residents apply for citizenship when they become eligible — a striking statistic that underscores the enduring appeal of becoming a Canadian. While individual motivations vary, there are several key factors driving this high level of interest.
First and foremost, Canadian citizenship offers long-term certainty. Once granted, citizenship is generally permanent and difficult to lose. Legislative updates, particularly those introduced in 2017 under the Trudeau government, have further protected citizens from involuntary revocation. Unlike permanent residents, citizens are not subject to residency obligations and cannot be deported for criminal offenses.
Travel freedom is another major draw. Canadian passport holders enjoy visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to more than 180 countries, including the U.S., U.K., and nearly all European Union states. In fact, Canada’s passport ranks among the top 10 globally in terms of mobility power, according to the Henley Passport Index. Citizens also hold the constitutional right to enter, remain in, and leave Canada freely.
Citizenship also opens doors for future generations. Children born in Canada are automatically granted citizenship, and those born abroad to Canadian citizens are eligible as well — a privilege not extended to permanent residents. This transference of status can provide stability and opportunities for the next generation.
Employment advantages further strengthen the case for citizenship. Certain government roles, public sector careers, and security-sensitive jobs are reserved exclusively for citizens. Holding a Canadian passport may give applicants a competitive edge for these positions.
Perhaps most significantly, citizenship unlocks full political rights. Only citizens may vote in federal, provincial, or municipal elections, and only citizens can run for public office. Immigrants who have naturalized can even aspire to become Prime Minister, as Canadian law does not restrict that role to natural-born citizens.
Canada also allows dual citizenship, which means applicants are not required to renounce citizenship elsewhere — an appealing feature for many immigrants. This flexibility enables individuals to maintain ties with their country of origin while fully integrating into Canadian society.
Lastly, the emotional and symbolic value of Canadian citizenship carries great weight. Naturalization ceremonies are deeply meaningful events that signify a newcomer’s full membership in the Canadian family — an affirmation of belonging, identity, and shared values.
As Maple News observes, Canadian citizenship is more than just a legal status; it’s a gateway to rights, protections, opportunities, and belonging in one of the world’s most respected countries.