Eligibility
Canadian Citizenship Eligibility Requirements
Before applying for citizenship, you must meet all eligibility requirements set by IRCC. A single unmet condition is enough to result in the rejection of your application or a lengthy wait for regularization. In case of refusal, administrative remedies are available.
Days of Physical Presence
You must have been physically present in Canada for at least 1,095 days out of the last 5 years before your application date. Partial days count as full days.
Permanent Resident Status
You must be a permanent resident at the time of application and must not be subject to a removal order or an ongoing security investigation.
Age & Language Test
If you are between 18 and 54 years old, you must demonstrate adequate proficiency in English or French and pass the Canadian knowledge test.
Tax Returns
You must have filed Canadian income tax returns for 4 tax years within the 5-year period preceding your application (if you were required to file).
No Prohibition
No criminal conviction in the 4 years preceding the application (inside or outside Canada). Some criminal records may be eligible for rehabilitation — consult us.
Government Fees
IRCC fees are $653 CAD per adult (18 years and over), non-refundable. For minors (under 18): $100 CAD. These fees cover processing and the ceremony.
Official IRCC Method
How to Calculate the 1,095 Days
minimum days of physical presence required
over a 5-year period (1,825 days) preceding the application date
Days Counted at 100%
Every day you were physically present in Canada as a permanent resident. Arrival and departure days each count as a full day.
Days Before PR — 50% Rule
Days spent in Canada before obtaining permanent residence (as a visitor, student, or temporary worker) count at 50%, up to a maximum of 365 usable days.
Excluded Days
Days spent outside Canada do not count, regardless of the reason (vacation, work abroad, family visit). There are no exceptions to this rule.
IRCC Calculation Tools
IRCC provides an online days calculator on its official website. Our firm performs this precise calculation and maintains a certified record in your file.
Warning: Do not underestimate the importance of this calculation. IRCC verifies entries/exits through CBSA. Inconsistencies between your declaration and border data can result in refusal for misrepresentation — a very serious consequence. Mohamed Rachid Trissia performs this calculation with you during the consultation.
Building Your File
The CIT 0002 File — Complete List
Form CIT 0002 is the main form for an adult citizenship application. It must be accompanied by numerous supporting documents to prove your eligibility.
Practical tip: Physical presence evidence should be filed chronologically, covering each month or quarter of the 5-year period. The more complete and organized your evidence, the less likely IRCC is to send an Additional Document Request (ADR) that could delay processing by several months.
Full Process
Citizenship Application Process — Step by Step
The Canadian citizenship application follows a structured process that can take 12 to 24 months. Here are the key steps, from eligibility check to the oath ceremony.
Eligibility Verification & Day Count
Before taking any steps, precisely calculate your days of physical presence in Canada over the last 5 years. Our firm performs this certified calculation with you, cross-referencing passport stamps, travel records, and CBSA data. An incorrect calculation can result in refusal or a misrepresentation charge — an extremely serious consequence.
Document Collection & File Assembly
Collection of all supporting documents: CIT 0002 form, presence evidence (bank statements, leases, T4s, tax returns), photos, PR card, passports from the past 5 years, proof of language proficiency. Our firm provides a personalized list and verifies each document against IRCC criteria.
Online Submission via IRCC Portal
Since 2020, all adult citizenship applications must be submitted online. The file is uploaded to the IRCC portal with the payment of government fees ($653 per adult). IRCC sends an acknowledgment with a file number — the processing timeline begins.
Admissibility Review & Additional Document Request
IRCC first reviews the admissibility of your file (are all required documents present?). If information is missing, IRCC sends an Additional Document Request (ADR). Responding quickly and completely is crucial to avoid additional delays of several months.
Knowledge Test (Ages 18–54) & Possible Interview
Applicants aged 18 to 54 receive a summons for the citizenship test (online or in person). The 20-question test requires a minimum score of 15/20 (75%). A second attempt is possible if the first is failed. If IRCC has concerns about your file, an interview with an officer may be required.
Oath Ceremony & Certificate Issuance
After final approval, you receive a summons to the citizenship ceremony (in person or virtual). You take the Oath of Citizenship before a citizenship judge, surrender your PR card, and receive your citizenship certificate. You can then apply for your Canadian passport the next day.
2025 Processing Times: IRCC targets a 12-month processing time for straightforward applications and up to 24 months for complex files or those requiring an interview. These timelines are indicative and may vary based on volumes. Our firm monitors your file progress through the IRCC portal and keeps you informed at every step.
Mandatory Exam (Ages 18–54)
The Citizenship Test
The citizenship test evaluates your knowledge of Canada — its history, geography, values, and political system. It is mandatory for applicants aged 18 to 54.
📜 Canadian History
- Indigenous Peoples
- French and British colonization
- Confederation 1867
- The two World Wars
- The Charter of Rights
🗳️ Government & Politics
- Constitutional Monarchy
- House of Commons / Senate
- Roles: PM, GG, Lt. Governor
- Rights and responsibilities
- Right to vote
🗺️ Geography
- Provinces and territories
- Provincial capitals
- Oceans and regions
- Natural resources
- National symbols
🤝 Rights & Values
- Canadian Charter of Rights
- Fundamental freedoms
- Gender equality
- Pluralism and multiculturalism
- Citizen obligations
Test format: 20 multiple-choice questions, taken online or in person. Minimum score: 15/20 (75%). Duration: 30 minutes. The free official resource is the "Discover Canada" guide (IRCC), available in English.
Exemptions: Persons under 18 or 55 and over are exempt from the knowledge test. Persons with mental health issues or cognitive disabilities may request a medical exemption.
Budget & Timeline
Government Fees & Processing Times 2025
After the ceremony: The citizenship certificate is issued on site. You can then apply for your Canadian passport from Passport Canada (separate fees: approximately $160 CAD for an adult, valid 10 years). No additional waiting — the passport can be requested the day after the ceremony.
Ready to Become a Canadian Citizen?
Mohamed Rachid Trissia, RCIC, verifies your eligibility, calculates your days of presence and prepares your complete CIT 0002 file — accurately and without unnecessary delays.