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Citizenship: the main requirements
- Physical presence: at least 1,095 days in Canada during the five years before you apply. Some time spent in Canada before becoming a permanent resident can count partially.
- Taxes: filing income taxes for at least three of those five years, if you were required to.
- Language: applicants aged 18 to 54 must show English or French ability at the required level.
- Knowledge test: applicants aged 18 to 54 take the citizenship test about Canada's history, values and institutions.
- No prohibitions, such as certain criminal charges or convictions, or being under a removal order.
Counting your days correctly is critical. Applications that fall short of the physical presence requirement are refused, and the fee is not refunded. Use IRCC's physical presence calculator and keep your travel records.
PR card renewal and the residency obligation
Your PR card is usually valid for five years. To keep permanent resident status, you must generally have been physically present in Canada for at least 730 days in every five-year period, with some exceptions (for example time spent abroad with a Canadian citizen spouse). Renew your card before you travel, and if you are outside Canada without a valid card, you may need a Permanent Resident Travel Document (PRTD) to return.
Other status services
- Restoration of status for temporary residents whose status has expired, within the time limit.
- Humanitarian and compassionate (H&C) applications for people with strong ties to Canada or hardship if removed.
- Citizenship for children of Canadian citizens and permanent residents.
How we help
We review your travel history and day count, check for anything that could delay your application, prepare and submit it, and help you get ready for the test and interview. For PR cards and PRTDs, we prepare a clear application and address any residency obligation concerns.
Frequently asked questions
Can I apply for citizenship if I travelled a lot?
Yes, as long as you have at least 1,095 days of physical presence in the five years before you apply. Count carefully; trips of even one day matter.
Do children need to take the citizenship test?
No. Applicants under 18 and those 55 or older do not need to take the test or prove language ability.
My PR card expired. Have I lost my status?
No, an expired card does not by itself mean you lost permanent resident status. Status depends on meeting the residency obligation. You should renew the card, especially before travelling.
How long does a citizenship application take?
Processing times change. IRCC publishes current processing times on its website. We will tell you what to expect.
This page is general information, not legal advice. Immigration rules, fees and processing times change often; always confirm current requirements on the official IRCC or IRB website, and get advice about your own situation before you apply. No consultant can guarantee the outcome of an application.