If you are considering coming to Canada, or have recently immigrated, you may be wondering how to become a Canadian citizen. While the process may seem complicated, the Immigration Lawyers at Brace Law want to make your move to Canada as smooth as possible, and can assist you in understanding the requirements of becoming a Canadian citizen. Below are 10 of the most common questions we get about becoming a Canadian citizen, answered for you!
1. How do I become a Canadian citizen?
In order to become a Canadian citizen there are some criteria that must first be met. You must:
- Be a permanent resident
- Have lived in Canada for 3 out of the last 5 years
- Have filed your taxes if you need to
- Pass a citizenship test
- Prove your language skills
2. What is the difference between citizenship and permanent residency in Canada?
The main difference between citizenship and permanent residency in Canada is that prior to becoming a citizen, one must become a permanent resident. Both permanent residence and citizenship have a different application process and requirements. Learn more about becoming a permanent resident or citizen, and whether you are eligible for either status, by contacting the immigration lawyers at Brace Law.
3. What language level do I need when I apply for Canadian citizenship?
To become a Canadian citizen, you must show adequate knowledge of both of Canada’s official languages, English and French, by proving you are able to speak and listen at the Canadian Language Benchmarks Level 4 (CLB 4) or higher. To learn more about how your language level is measured, contact our immigration lawyers at Brace Law.
4. Who must take the citizenship test?
If you are between the ages of 18 and 54, you must take the citizenship test at the time you apply for citizenship.
5. Can I become a Canadian citizen when I marry a Canadian?
No, marrying a Canadian citizen doesn’t give you Canadian citizenship. To become a Canadian citizen, you must go through the general application process, as the requirements to attain citizenship are the same across all individuals. For assistance with your citizenship application, contact our immigration lawyers at Brace Law.
6. Can I include time spent outside of Canada as my physical presence requirement when applying for citizenship?
This is applicable only in limited scenarios, such as being employed with the Canadian Armed Forces.
7. Can I leave Canada after mailing my citizenship application?
Yes, you can leave Canada after the application has been received. To ensure you stay eligible for Canadian citizenship, one of the requirements asks that you keep your Permanent Resident card with you on your travel so that you are able to return to Canada.
8. What if my citizenship application is refused?
If your application is refused, you can reapply right after receiving your decision. However, you should ensure you meet the requirements before reapplying. Contact the immigration lawyers at Brace Law to ensure that you are submitting a complete application.
9. If I am Canadian, and my child was born outside of Canada, are they Canadian?
Your child may be considered a Canadian citizen if at least one parent (legal or biological) was either born in Canada or became a Canadian citizen prior to the birth of the child.
10. What is dual citizenship?
Dual citizenship is when more than one country considers you to be a citizen.
We hope that this list has answered your most pressing questions about becoming a Canadian citizen. If you still have questions, would like more information about the process, or need assistance applying for citizenship, the team at Brace Law is here to help.
We serve our clients in English, Albanian, Italian, Arabic, Punjabi, Hindi, Farsi and Urdu with offices in Oakville and Vaughan. Call us at 905-815-6555 or email admin@bracelaw.ca. We can help! We Offer Consultations & Meetings by Phone & Virtually. Affordable Fees. Choose Brace Law and consider it handled.
