Citizenship

Apply for Canadian Citizenship

• What are the language requirements for Canadian citizenship?

  When you are applying for Canadian citizenship, you must prove that you know enough of either French or English so that you can understand other people and they can understand you.

• How do I apply for Canadian Citizenship?

  To apply for citizenship, you must meet certain eligibility criteria and complete an application. IRCC will return your application if it is incomplete and missing certain documents.

• How can I prepare for the citizenship test?

  The test is made up of multiple-choice questions about Canada, including Canada's history, geography, political system, national symbols, identity and values, and of the rights and responsibilities of citizenship.

• What if my Canadian citizenship certificate is lost or stolen?

  Report your lost or stolen citizenship certificate to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). You can apply for a new citizenship certificate.

• Will a criminal record affect my immigration status?

  You may not be able to stay in Canada if you have a criminal record. But there are exceptions if you've received a pardon.

• Do I have to give up my citizenship when I become Canadian?

  You do not have to give up your citizenship to become Canadian. You should check the laws of the country you are from to see if it allows dual citizenship.

Citizenship Certificate

Rights and Responsibilities of Citizenship

• What are my rights and responsibilities as a Canadian citizen?

  Becoming a Canadian citizen means that you acquire certain rights and responsibilities.

• Do I have to give up my citizenship when I become Canadian?

  You do not have to give up your citizenship to become Canadian. You should check the laws of the country you are from to see if it allows dual citizenship.

• What should I know about the Canadian Census?

  The census is how the government counts the population and gathers information that helps different levels of government make plans and decisions. The next census will be in May 2026.