How do you apply for Canadian citizenship in 2026?

For a standard adult grant under subsection 5(1), you must hold valid PR status with no unfulfilled PR conditions and no removal order. IRCC requires at least 1,095 days physically in Canada during the five-year eligibility period before the day you sign the application. That period must include enough days as a permanent resident (IRCC guidance requires a minimum of two years as a PR to meet the presence test). Days as an authorized temporary resident or protected person before PR can count as half days, up to a maximum of 365 days toward the total.

Run the official Physical Presence Calculator and keep travel histories. IRCC encourages applying with a cushion above 1,095 days so a missed trip does not sink the file. You can apply with a valid or expired PR card if you still hold PR status: get a PR card covers card renewals for travel, which is a different problem from citizenship eligibility.

If you are 18 to 54 when you apply, you must show adequate English or French and knowledge of Canada. Language is usually proven with an accepted test or certain Canadian education credentials. Knowledge is assessed after you apply through the citizenship test (and sometimes an interview) based on the official study guide. French or English choice for the process matters in practice if you live in Quebec or work in bilingual federal roles: Canadian language requirements.

IRCC also expects personal income tax filing for the years that apply within the eligibility window when CRA rules require it. Keep notices of assessment handy after you file Canadian taxes and maintain CRA My Account. Update your IRCC address so invitations arrive: update address with IRCC.

After approval, you take the oath of citizenship at a ceremony (in person or online when IRCC offers it). Only then are you a citizen.