Maple News reports that permanent residents in Canada who meet specific residency, tax, and language requirements may now be eligible to apply for Canadian citizenship. Citizenship offers numerous advantages over permanent residence, including the right to vote, access to a Canadian passport, and the ability to hold dual citizenship.
To qualify for citizenship, applicants must be permanent residents who have physically lived in Canada for at least three out of the last five years (equivalent to 1,095 days). In addition, they must have filed Canadian taxes for a minimum of three years during that period, demonstrate English or French language proficiency, pass a written citizenship test evaluating knowledge of Canadian history, values, and institutions, and take the Oath of Citizenship.
According to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), most individuals can submit their citizenship application online through the official portal. However, certain applicants—such as those applying as family members of Crown servants or those using authorized representatives to submit forms—must apply via a paper-based process. The relevant application packages can be downloaded from the IRCC website.
The current fees for applying for Canadian citizenship are as follows: $630 CAD for adults (18 and over), $100 CAD for stateless adults born to Canadian parents, and $100 CAD for minors (under 18). All payments must be made online through IRCC’s designated payment system.
Applying for Canadian citizenship is a pivotal step for immigrants who plan to make Canada their permanent home. Citizenship not only strengthens one’s legal status but also enriches the sense of identity and belonging in Canadian society. With streamlined processes and digital tools available, IRCC has made the journey toward naturalization more accessible than ever before.
For those unsure about their eligibility or who need assistance navigating the process, immigration professionals can provide guidance personalized to individual circumstances. However, applicants must ensure that all documents are accurate and requirements are met before submitting their application, as rejection due to incomplete or incorrect information may delay the process significantly.
Maple News will continue to monitor updates from IRCC and provide insights to help newcomers and permanent residents successfully integrate and thrive in Canada.