Requirements for adults (18 and older)
To apply, you must:
- be a permanent resident with no unfulfilled conditions and no removal order
- have been physically present in Canada for at least 1,095 days (3 years) in the 5 years before you sign your application
- have filed income taxes in Canada for at least 3 years in those 5 years, if you had to
- prove English or French at CLB 4 (speaking and listening) if you're 18 to 54
- pass the citizenship test if you're 18 to 54
- take the oath of citizenship
- not be under a prohibition, such as some criminal charges or convictions
How to count your 1,095 days
- The 5-year period ends on the day you sign your application.
- At least 730 days must be as a permanent resident.
- Each day in Canada as a temporary resident (visitor, student, worker) or protected person before you became a PR counts as half a day, up to 365 days.
- Time in prison, on parole or on probation generally doesn't count.
Use IRCC's online physical presence calculator (linked from IRCC's citizenship page) and keep your travel history. If you're close to 1,095, wait a few extra weeks before applying: falling short means a refusal.
Language proof
Accepted proof includes results from an IRCC-approved language test at CLB 4 or higher, or a diploma or degree from a program taught in English or French. IRCC lists exactly which tests and documents it accepts in the application guide. Check your level with our CLB converter.
Children under 18
A parent can apply for a minor child, usually at the same time as their own application. Children don't need to meet the physical presence rule if a parent is a citizen or applying together.
Dual citizenship
Canada allows dual citizenship, but your current country may not. Check with its embassy or consulate before you apply.
Next steps
- Not at 1,095 days yet? Keep your PR valid with our residency obligation guide.
- Card expiring first? See PR card renewal.
- Want someone to check your days and documents? Book a consultation.