Once you become a permanent resident of Canada, the timeline to apply for citizenship depends on meeting certain physical presence and eligibility criteria. Generally, you can apply for Canadian citizenship once you have been physically present in Canada for at least 1,095 days (3 years) out of the 5 years preceding your application. This requirement is crucial, as days spent outside Canada may delay eligibility.
In addition to the physical presence requirement, you must also meet the following conditions:
– Have filed taxes in Canada for at least 3 years during the qualifying period, if required under the Income Tax Act.
– Demonstrate adequate knowledge of English or French (if you’re between 18 and 54 years old).
– Pass a citizenship test on Canadian history, laws, symbols, and values (also if you’re 18 to 54).
– Not be under a removal order or involved in certain criminal proceedings.
Once your application is submitted and acknowledged (you receive the Acknowledgement of Receipt or AOR), processing times can vary, but as of mid-2025, IRCC reports an average processing time of about 12 months from the date of application to the oath ceremony.
In total, if you meet the residency requirement as soon as eligible and apply promptly, the full process from becoming a PR to becoming a citizen typically takes 4 to 5 years. However, this can be shorter or longer depending on your circumstances and application backlog at the time.
