Naturalisation by residence in Canada (2026)

Last reviewed: 9 October 2026

In short: Naturalisation needs 1,095 days of physical presence in Canada in the five years before applying. Applicants aged 18 to 54 need adequate English or French and must pass a knowledge test. Giving up the previous nationality is not required by Canada.

RuleWhat applies
Years of residence requiredOrdinary naturalisation by residence3 years [1]
Shortened residence periodsOrdinary naturalisation by residenceDays spent in Canada as a temporary resident or protected person before becoming a permanent resident count as half a day each, up to 365 days (section 5(1.001)). A permanent resident who completed three years of service in the Canadian Armed Forces in the six years before applying does not need to meet the physical presence requirement (section 5(1.2)). [1]
Language level requiredOrdinary naturalisation by residence⚠ Not yet verified
Integration or civic knowledge testOrdinary naturalisation by residenceYes [1]
Giving up previous nationalityOrdinary naturalisation by residenceNot required [2]

Notes

  • At least 730 of the 1,095 days must be as a permanent resident, according to IRCC. The applicant must also have met any income tax filing requirement for three taxation years within the five years, and have no unfulfilled conditions on permanent resident status.
  • Further day-counting rules apply to Crown service abroad and to the spouse and children of such persons (section 5(1.01) to (1.03)).
  • The language and knowledge requirements apply to applicants aged 18 to 54. The test is in English or French and covers rights and responsibilities of citizens and Canadian history, geography, government, laws and symbols.
  • Applicants may lose their other citizenship under the law of their other country. IRCC advises checking with the other country.

Sources

  1. Department of Justice Canada (Justice Laws website): Citizenship Act (R.S.C., 1985, c. C-29), section 5 (consulted 9 October 2026) · all sources
  2. Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC): Apply for Canadian citizenship: adults and minor children (Who can apply) (consulted 9 October 2026) · all sources

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General information, not legal advice. Rules change: check the official source before you fly or ride.