Canadian Citizenship by Naturalization: Apply as a Permanent Resident
Citizenship by naturalization is how a permanent resident becomes a Canadian citizen by applying to IRCC. You need at least 1,095 days in Canada in the 5 years before you apply, with at least 730 as a permanent resident. This guide shows the rules, the steps and the fee. Our quiz finds your earliest date to apply.
since 1991
What is citizenship by naturalization?
Citizenship by naturalization is Canadian citizenship you receive after you apply as a permanent resident and meet IRCC’s rules. You need the day count, English or French skills, a passed test if you are 18 to 54, and you take the oath (IRCC, checked October 2026).
Most people apply online. If you want a representative to complete and submit your application, you apply on paper.
Who can apply?
Adults who are permanent residents, with no removal order or unmet conditions, can apply if they meet the day count, tax, language and test rules and have no prohibitions. Children under 18 follow different rules and pay $100.
Why the details matter
- Signing date: you must meet every rule the day before you sign, and your day count must match that date
- 90 days: IRCC returns an application that arrives more than 90 days after you sign it
- Complete files: an incomplete application is returned, and the processing clock restarts
Which case sounds like yours?
Check where you stand before you apply.
Apply now if you
- Have 1,095 days in Canada in the last 5 years
- Have at least 730 of those days as a PR
- Meet the tax, language and test rules
Wait if you
- Have fewer than 730 days as a PR
- Counted your days before PR in full
- Were on probation or parole during those days
Not sure? Take the citizenship eligibility quiz to find your earliest date to apply.
Your naturalization journey, in five parts
Each part has its own rules. Source: IRCC.
Count your days and find the earliest date you can apply.
You need CLB level 4 in speaking and listening if you are 18 to 54.
Apply online or on paper, pay $653 and submit within 90 days of signing.
The test has 20 questions. You need 15 right.
An officer may invite you to an interview. Then you take the oath.
Not sure where you stand?
We count your days, check your documents and tell you your next step.
Rules every applicant should know
1,095 days in 5 years
You must be in Canada at least 1,095 days in the 5 years before you apply. The days do not need to be in a row.
730 days as a PR
At least 730 of your days must be as a permanent resident. Each day before PR counts as half a day, up to 365 days.
Some time does not count
Time in prison, on parole or on probation does not count toward your days.
Taxes may be required
If the law requires it, you must have filed taxes for at least 3 of the 5 years before you apply.
Language and test, ages 18 to 54
You must show adequate English or French, at CLB level 4 for speaking and listening, and pass the citizenship test.
The signing date rule
You must meet every rule the day before you sign, and IRCC must receive your application within 90 days of signing.
Related pages
These pages cover each step in detail.
How to avoid a refused or returned application
Five habits keep your application on track.
Count days with records
Use passport stamps and travel records to build a day-by-day list.
Match your signing date
Your day count must be right for the day before you sign.
File your taxes
Check that the years you need are filed, if the law requires it.
Prove your language
Keep results or records that show CLB level 4 in speaking and listening.
Get advice early
If you have long trips, past refusals or a criminal record, ask before you apply.
Want your application reviewed?
We count your days, check your documents and tell you if you are ready.
Your naturalization path, step by step
Six steps from your first count to the oath.
Check your eligibility
Take the quiz to find your earliest date to apply.
Count your days
Confirm 1,095 days, with at least 730 as a PR.
Prepare your documents
Gather language proof, identity documents and your travel and tax history.
Apply and pay the fee
Submit within 90 days of signing and pay $653.
Pass the citizenship test
If you are 18 to 54, study Discover Canada and get 15 of 20 right.
Take the oath
Attend a ceremony, in person or virtual, and take the oath.
Five mistakes that delay citizenship
These mistakes cost time and sometimes a second fee.
Signing too early
You must meet every rule the day before you sign.
Counting pre-PR days in full
Days before PR count as half days, up to 365.
Missing the 90 days
IRCC returns applications that arrive more than 90 days after signing.
Skipping tax filing
If the law requires you to file, missing years can hurt your application.
Sending an incomplete file
An incomplete application is returned and the clock restarts.
Want a second set of eyes?
We review your days and your documents before you apply.
Naturalization facts at a glance
Key facts from IRCC, checked October 2026. Last updated: October 2026.
Why clients choose Amir Ismail & Associates
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A strategy built for your profile
We identify the fastest realistic pathway for you, not a template.
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Documentation review that prevents costly errors and refusals.
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Naturalization FAQs
How do I become a Canadian citizen by naturalization?
You apply to IRCC as a permanent resident after at least 1,095 days in Canada in the 5 years before you apply, with at least 730 as a PR. You also need English or French at CLB level 4 and a passed test if you are 18 to 54, then you take the oath (IRCC, checked October 2026).
How many days do I need in Canada?
You need at least 1,095 days in the 5 years before you sign your application, and at least 730 must be as a permanent resident. The day you sign does not count, so you must meet the rule the day before. Use our eligibility quiz to find your earliest date.
Do days before PR count?
Yes, but only as half days. Each day as a temporary resident or protected person counts as 0.5 days, up to 365 days of credit. They cannot replace the 730 days you need as a PR.
How much does it cost?
The adult fee is $653, which includes the $123 right of citizenship fee. A child under 18 pays $100 (IRCC fee list, checked October 2026). Fees can change, so check the IRCC fee list before you pay.
Do I apply online or on paper?
Most people apply online, which IRCC says is faster and has built-in checks. You apply on paper if you want a representative to complete and submit your application, or if you are a Crown servant counting time outside Canada.
What happens after I apply?
IRCC checks that your application is complete and sends an acknowledgement of receipt with your application number and client identifier. If you are 18 to 54, you then take the citizenship test, and most applicants attend a ceremony to take the oath.
Do I have to take the citizenship test?
Most applicants aged 18 to 54 must take it. The test has 20 questions, you get 45 minutes, and you need 15 correct. You get up to 3 attempts in 30 days, and if you fail all three, IRCC invites you to a hearing.
What language level do I need?
If you are 18 to 54 when you sign, you must show adequate English or French. IRCC sets this at CLB or NCLC level 4 for speaking and listening. See our language tests page to convert your scores.
Do I need to file taxes?
You may need to. If the law requires you to file, you must have filed taxes for at least 3 of the 5 years before you apply.
Can I leave Canada after I apply?
Yes, as long as you keep your permanent resident status, can respond to IRCC within 30 days, and can attend any test, interview or ceremony.
Does Canada allow dual citizenship?
Yes, Canada lets you hold other citizenships. Whether your other country lets you keep its citizenship is a separate question, so ask its embassy before you apply.
Can my child apply with me?
Yes. A child under 18 who is a permanent resident can apply for $100. If a parent is a citizen or applies at the same time, the child needs no test, language proof, day count or tax filing.