If you are a permanent resident of Canada and want to take the next step of becoming a citizen, you need to know the requirements and the process. Becoming a citizen of Canada is not only a privilege but also a responsibility. You will gain new rights and duties as a member of the Canadian society. In this article, we will explain how to transition from Canada permanent resident to citizen in a few steps.
Requirements for Canada Permanent Resident to Citizenship
To be eligible to apply for citizenship, you must meet the following criteria as a permanent resident of Canada:
- You must have lived in Canada for at least 3 out of the last 5 years (1,095 days). You can count some of the time you spent in Canada as a temporary resident or protected person if you were a Crown servant or a family member of a Crown servant.
- You must have filed your taxes for at least 3 years during the 5 years right before the date you apply. You need to provide proof of your income tax filing with your application.
- You must pass a citizenship test on your knowledge of Canada’s history, geography, government, and symbols. The test is usually written, but it can also be oral if you are 55 years or older or have a disability that prevents you from taking the written test.
- You must prove your language skills in English or French. You need to show that you can speak and listen at an intermediate level (Canadian Language Benchmarks 4) by providing evidence such as transcripts, diplomas, certificates, or test results.
There are some situations that can prevent you from becoming a citizen, such as having a criminal record, being involved in a war crime, or lying on your application. You can check your eligibility online by answering some questions on the official website.
Process for Canada Permanent Resident to Citizen
You can apply for citizenship online or on paper, depending on your situation. The fees are the same for both methods: $630 for adults (18 or older) and $100 for minors (under 18). You need to pay your fees online and include the receipts in your application.
To apply online, you need to have access to a scanner or camera, an email address, and a credit card. You also need to meet certain technical requirements for uploading your documents. You can find the online application form and instructions on the official website.
To apply on paper, you need to download and print the application package from the official website. You also need to fill out the forms, gather the required documents, pay the fees online, and mail your application to the appropriate address.
After you submit your application, you will receive a confirmation letter and a processing number. You can use this number to check and update your application status online. You can also prepare for the test and interview by studying the official study guide and practicing with sample questions.
Ceremony for Citizenship
The final step of becoming a citizen is taking the oath of citizenship and receiving your citizenship certificate at a ceremony. The oath is a promise to respect Canada’s laws and values. The ceremony is usually held within six months after you pass the test and interview.
At the ceremony, you will need to bring your original permanent resident card or record of landing, your confirmation of permanent residence if you have one, and two pieces of identification. You will also need to dress appropriately and arrive on time.
After the ceremony, you will officially become a citizen of Canada and enjoy all the rights and responsibilities that come with it. You can apply for a Canadian passport, vote in elections, run for office, travel with ease, and celebrate your new identity.
Transitioning from Canada permanent resident to citizen is not an easy process, but it is rewarding and fulfilling. You need to meet certain eligibility requirements, apply online or on paper, pass a test and interview, and attend a ceremony. By following these steps and preparing well, you can achieve your dream of becoming a citizen of Canada.