To become a Canadian citizen, most applicants must
>> Be a permanent resident
>> Have lived in Canada for at least 3 out of the last 5 years (1,095 days)
>> Have filed your taxes, if you need to
>> Pass a citizenship test
>> Prove your language skills in English or French
You don’t automatically become a citizen when you marry a Canadian.
If you’re the spouse of a Canadian citizen, you must meet the same requirements listed above (no exception).
Children and grandchildren of Canadian citizens
If you have a Canadian parent or grandparent, you may be a Canadian citizen.
>> See if you may be a Canadian citizen
>> To find out for sure, apply for a Canadian citizenship certificate
You (and some minors, if applicable) must have been physically in Canada for at least 1,095 days (3 years) during the 5 years before the date you sign your application.
We encourage you to apply for more than 1,095 days of living in Canada in case there’s a problem with the calculation.
In your calculation, you may be able to include some of the time you spent
>> In Canada as a temporary resident or protected person
>> Outside Canada if you were a Crown servant or a family member of a Crown servant.