Guide CIT 0531 – Application for Canadian citizenship – Adults – Canadian Armed Forces under subsection 5(1)

This is not a legal document. The explanations and definitions are not legal definitions. In case of a discrepancy between the language in this document and the relevant legislation or regulations, the legal text in the legislation and regulations prevails.

For legal information, consult the following documents:

• Immigration and Refugee Protection Act
• Immigration and Refugee Protection Regulations

Overview

Application package

This application package has:

• an instruction guide, and
• the forms you need to fill out.

The instruction guide:

• has information you must know before you submit your application, and
• explains how to fill out the forms and gather your supporting documents.

Read the instruction guide completely and then fill out each of the applicable forms.

The forms are designed with questions that will help the processing of your application.

Symbols used in this guide

This guide uses these symbols to draw your attention to important information:

Important information that you need to know to avoid delays or other problems.

Where to get more information.

Note: Tips that will help you with this application.

Make sure you’re eligible

Who may use this application?

• persons aged 18 years of age or older
• persons having met the service requirements in, or with, the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF):
  • permanent residents (landed immigrants) of Canada who are, or were, serving in the CAF and who were honourably released, or
  • non-permanent residents who are, or were, attached or seconded to the CAF

  Note: If you were released other than honourably from the Canadian Armed Forces, you are not eligible to apply under the Canadian Armed Forces application form. Consider applying under the Application for Canadian Citizenship under Subsection 5(1) – Adults if you meet the requirements for citizenship.

  Citizenship service requirements

  The Citizenship Act provides for an expedited access to citizenship for persons who are serving in, or have served in, the Canadian Armed Forces. The Act requires a person to have completed three (3) years of service in the six (6) years immediately before the date of the application.

  What are the other requirements for citizenship?

  • have met any applicable requirement under the Income Tax Act to file income taxes for three (3) taxation years that are fully or partially within the six (6) years immediately before you apply;

  Note: You need to meet this requirement if you are a permanent resident. If you are not a permanent resident, this requirement does not apply to you.

  Note: You need to submit language proof with your application.
  • Canada’s history,
  • geography,
  • government, and
  • the rights and responsibilities of citizenship

  Note: You will need to pass a written and/or oral knowledge test

  Note: Persons 55 years of age and over at the time of their application are not required to meet the language and knowledge requirements.

  • If you can’t demonstrate you meet the knowledge and/or language requirements due to compassionate grounds, submit supporting evidence with your application.
  • Provide a completed Waiver Request Form [CIT 0116] (PDF, 2.16 MB).
  • If you are requesting a waiver due to a medical condition, we recommend you also provide a Medical Opinion Form for Citizenship Waivers [CIT 0547] (PDF, 2.59 MB), filled out by a medical professional licensed to practice in Canada.
  • You should also provide any additional documentation that we should consider with your waiver request.

  Compassionate grounds include medical and non-medical factors. Examples include (but are not limited to) evidence of

  • a severe medical condition that has lasted (or is expected to last) for at least 1 year, including
    • serious illness
    • physical or developmental disability
    • mental impairment
    • war
    • torture
    • living in a refugee camp
    • other similar circumstances

    Requesting a waiver does not guarantee it will be approved. They are assessed on a case-by-case basis.

    • If you are requesting a waiver of language and knowledge requirements, you only need to provide one Waiver Request Form [CIT 0116] (PDF, 2.16 MB). If you are also providing a Medical Opinion Form for Citizenship Waivers [CIT 0547] (PDF, 2.59 MB), only one is required to request multiple waivers.

    If you are a permanent resident and have any outstanding terms and conditions linked to your Permanent Resident status, you may not be eligible for citizenship. For example, some new permanent residents are required to undergo medical screening after they arrive in Canada. Before applying for citizenship, you should review the documents provided to you when you first came to live in Canada as a permanent resident to ensure that you have met all of your terms and conditions.

    You must not:

    • be subject to any prohibition under the Citizenship Act (see section 8 of the application form CIT 0532), and/or
    • be under a removal order (asked by Canadian officials to leave Canada).

    Family applications

    If more than one member of your family is applying for Canadian citizenship, send all the applications together in the same envelope. The applications will be processed together. If one or more family members’ applications are incomplete, ALL of the applications will be returned to you. Each family member applying must meet the requirements for citizenship based on the application type they submit.

    If your spouse or common-law partner who is not a member of the Canadian Armed Forces wishes to apply for Canadian citizenship

    To apply for Canadian citizenship for your child

    Possible loss of other citizenship

    Important information: You could lose your present nationality or citizenship if you become a Canadian citizen. If you have any questions about this, you should contact the embassy, high commission or consulate of the country of your present nationality before you apply for Canadian citizenship.

    Step 1. Gather documents

    What documents are required?

    The table below outlines the documents that you need to include with your application. Refer to the Document Checklist (CIT 0172) ( PDF , 2.63 MB ) to assist you in gathering the necessary documentation.

    If any of the required documents are missing, or photocopies are not clear, your application will be returned to you.

    Additional documents may be required during the processing of your application.

    1. Language requirements

    All applicants 18-54 years of age must submit proof that demonstrates adequate knowledge of English or French (even if your first language is English or French). If you are 18-54 years of age and unable to demonstrate that you have the necessary English or French language ability due to a medical condition, this requirement may be waived. You must submit supporting evidence with your application.

    If you do not have proof of language proficiency or the language level needed, you can take a government-funded language program to help you improve your language skills to get a certificate at a level of CLB/NCLC 4.

    Canadian Language Benchmark/ Niveaux de compétence linguistique canadiens Footnote 1 level 4 is considered “Basic Proficiency” and means an individual can:

    • take part in short, everyday conversations about common topics
    • understand simple instructions, questions and directions
    • use basic grammar, including simple structures and tenses and show that you know enough common words and phrases to answer questions and express yourself
    1. Results from a third-party language test. Your language test result must be equal to the Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB/NCLC) footnote 1 level 4 or higher in speaking and listening skills. If you did the test in the past for immigration purposes or citizenship purposes, we will accept the results even if it has expired. Examples of third-party tests include:
       • Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program General test (CELPIP-G), (not the academic version). You must have achieved a score of:
         • 2H or higher (3L, 3H, 4L, 4H, 5 or 6) in speaking and listening; or
         • CELPIP-General LS – a two-skills (listening and speaking) version of the CELPIP general test You must have achieved a score of:2H or higher (3L, 3H, 4L, 4H, 5 or 6) in listening and speaking; or
       • International English Language Testing System (IELTS), general training, not the academic version. You must have achieved a score of:
         • 4.0 or higher in speaking, and
         • 4.5 or higher in listening. (If the test was done before November 28, 2008, we will accept a 4 or higher); or
       • Test d’Évaluation de Français (TEF), Test d’Évaluation du Français adapté au Québec (TEFAQ) or TEF épreuves orales .
         • After July 1 st , 2012, you must have achieved a score of:
           • B1 or higher (B2, C1 or C2) in listening; and
           • B1 or higher (B2, C1 or C2) in speaking.
         • Before July 1 st , 2012, you must have achieved a score of:
           • Level 3 or higher (4, 5 or 6) in listening; and
           • Level 3 or higher (4, 5 or 6) in speaking.
       • The following list of proof will be accepted if they have been submitted for immigration purposes to Quebec (please note that the following tests align with the Échelle Québécoise and not officially with CLB/NCLC 4):
         • DALF ( Diplôme approfondi de langue française ) – All results or
         • DELF ( Diplôme d’études en langue française ) – B1 or higher or
         • TCF ( Test de connaissance du français ) – B1 or higher or
         • TCFQ ( Test de connaissance du français pour le Québec ) – B1 or higher
    2. You attended a secondary or post-secondary education program in English or French, either in Canada or abroad:
       • A degree, diploma, certificate or official transcripts from a secondary or post-secondary education program showing you studied in English or French, in Canada or abroad.
       • If the original document is in a different language, include:
         • a letter from the school showing that the language of instruction was in English or French along with
         • an official translation of the original document and
         • the address and contact information (phone number) of the education institution
    3. Proof of achieving Canadian Language Benchmark/ Niveau de competence linguistique canadien (CLB/NCLC) level 4 or higher in speaking and listening skills through certain government-funded language training programs are:
       • For Manitoba: Progress report from Manitoba government issued since January 2009. Ensure your report indicates speaking and listening skills are at least at “completing CLB/NCLC level 4” or higher.
       • For Quebec: Bulletins by the Ministère de l’Immigration, de la Francisation et de l’Intégration (MIFI) , Ministère de l’Immigration, de la Diversité et de l’Inclusion du Québec (MIDI) (former department name), or the Ministère de l’Immigration et Communautés Culturelles (former department name) if:
         • The version was issued between June 1st 2011 and October 16, 2012. Ensure that your most recent assessment in “ interaction orale ” is level 4 or higher ( Échelle Québécoise ); or
         • The version was issued since October 16, 2012. Ensure that your most recent assessment is in “interaction orale” or “ compréhension orale ” (listening) and “ production orale ” (speaking) is level 4 or higher ( Échelle Québécoise ).

    Note: Bulletins with results from online FEL Francisation en ligne ) classes are not acceptable for citizenship purposes, e.g. these usually have a course code B or FEL. Note that bulletins issued by the MIFI or the MICC align with the Échelle Québécoise and not officially with CLB/NCLC 4.

    • If you received British Columbia’s English Language Services for Adults (ELSA) training in 2008 and 2009, an ELSA certificate confirming language level CLB 4 or higher.
    • If you received British Columbia’s English Language Services for Adults (ELSA) training since 2010, an ELSA report card or an ELSA certificate confirming language level CLB 4 or higher
    • English as a Second Language (ESL) / Anglais langue seconde (ALS)
    • French as a Second Language (FSL) / Français langue seconde (FLS)
    • Citizenship and Language Training (CL) / Instruction civique et enseignement de la langue (ICEL)

    Format: Clear and legible photocopy. Must be in English or French. Foreign diplomas, certificates or transcripts must be translated if they are not in English or French. (See note above in section 2).

    • If you are 18-54 years of age and unable to demonstrate that you have the necessary English or French language ability due to compassionate grounds, this requirement may be waived. You must submit supporting evidence with your application, including a completed Waiver Request Form [CIT 0116] (PDF, 2.16 MB). If you are requesting a waiver due to a medical condition, we recommend you also provide a Medical Opinion Form for Citizenship Waivers [CIT 0547] (PDF, 2.59 MB), filled out by a medical professional licensed to practice in Canada. You should also provide any additional documentation that we should consider with your waiver request.
      Compassionate grounds include medical and non-medical factors. Examples include (but are not limited to) evidence of
      • a severe medical condition that has lasted (or is expected to last) for at least 1 year, including
        • serious illness
        • physical or developmental disability
        • mental impairment
        • war
        • torture
        • living in a refugee camp
        • other similar circumstances

        2. Passport(s)/Travel Document(s)

        Provide a colour photocopy of all the pages of your current passport(s) and travel documents, including the biographical page which is the page that has your name, photo, date and place of birth, , issue date and expiration date.

        Also, provide colour photocopies of any renewal pages of the passport(s)/travel document(s).

        Note: If any of these documents are no longer in your possession please explain why.

        Format: Clear and legible colour photocopy

        3. Evidence of Service in the Canadian Armed Forces

        Evidence of service in the CAF means the documents below that IRCC and the CAF have agreed are available to persons serving in or with the CAF.

        If you are currently serving in the CAF, provide:

        • a letter from your Commanding Officer that outlines your service history; and
        • a photocopy of your Member’s Personnel Record Resume (MPRR).

        If you have been released from the CAF, provide:

        • a photocopy of your MPRR; and
        • a photocopy of your Certificate of Service.

        If you are attached or seconded to the CAF, provide:

        • a letter from your Commanding Officer that outlines your service history; and
        • a photocopy of your instructions/orders supporting attachment/secondment.

        If you were previously attached or seconded to the CAF, provide:

        • a photocopy of your instructions/orders supporting attachment/secondment.

        The letter from your Commanding Officer must:

        • be on official letterhead;
        • state the date you enrolled in, or were attached or seconded to, the CAF;
        • state the number of years and/or days of service; and
        • include the Commanding Officer’s phone number and e-mail address for verification.

        Note: if you have non-consecutive periods of service, please provide separate documents to confirm each period of service.

        4. Two (2) pieces of personal identification

        Both pieces of identification should show your name and date of birth, one of which must have your photo on it.

        • a Canadian driver’s licence
        • a copy of the biographical page of your passport/travel document
        • military identification
        • a foreign national identity document (for non-permanent residents only), etc.

        If there is information on both sides of your personal identification documents, provide a photocopy of both sides.

        Note: Permanent Resident cards, Social Insurance Number (SIN) cards, bank cards and credit cards are not acceptable pieces of identification.

        Format: Clear and legible photocopy

        5. Payment receipt

        For more information. See Step 3. Pay the Fees

        Receipt showing total payment of application fees for individual or family members applying together.

        6. Use of a Representative form (IMM 5476) (as required)

        For instructions on completing the Use of a Representative form (IMM 5476), see: Guide 5561 – Instructions – Use of a Representative.

        Format: Original

        7. Additional documents (as required)

        Possible documents are:

        • translations of documents that are not in English or French
        • supporting documents to prove a name change
        • supporting documents to prove a date of birth correction
        • Waiver Request Form [CIT 0116] (PDF, 2.16 MB)
        • Medical Opinion Form for Citizenship Waivers [CIT 0547] (PDF, 2.59 MB)

        Format: Clear and legible photocopy

        Step 2. Complete the application

        Filling out the application

        Follow the step-by-step instructions below to complete the application form.

        The following are the forms that must be filled out and submitted:

        • Application for Canadian citizenship – Adults – Canadian Armed Forces under Subsection 5(1) [CIT 0532] ( PDF , 2.9 MB )
        • Use of a Representative (IMM 5476), if applicable
        • Request for a Change of Sex or Gender Identifier [IRM 0002] (PDF, 1.34 MB)
        • Request to Correct a Date of Birth for a Permanent Resident Document or Citizenship Certificate [IRM 0003] (PDF, 2.4 MB)
        • Waiver Request Form [CIT 0116] (PDF, 2.2 MB)
        • Medical Opinion Form for Citizenship Waivers [CIT 0547] (PDF, 2.6 MB)

        Note: The information you provide on your application and supporting documents may be subject to verification. Throughout the application process, if you or someone on your behalf provides any misleading or fraudulent information or withholds any information that could cause an error in the administration of the Citizenship Act, you could be charged with an offence under the Citizenship Act, your application for citizenship could be refused, and you could be prohibited from reapplying for citizenship for five (5) years.

        Be complete and accurate

        Complete all sections. If any section is not applicable to you, write “N/A” (“Not applicable”). If your application is incomplete it will be returned to you.

        Note: If you need more space for any section, use an extra sheet of paper and indicate the number and/or letter of the section you are completing and submit it along with your application.

        Section 1

        Question 1A

        What is your preferred language for correspondence and interview? English or French?

        Check the box to indicate if you have any special needs that require accommodation. If yes, please explain.

        Some examples of special needs are:

        • wheelchair access;
        • sign language interpretation (for example, deaf individuals may have a sign language interpreter to assist with the assessment of “listening and speaking” ability;
        • personal assistance (for example, you will be accompanied by a care attendant, an interpreter, a service animal, a sighted guide, etc.);
        • materials in accessible formats (for example, the study guide is available in large print, audio version or Braille);
        • If the special need is not listed, please explain in the space provided.

        Note: It is important to provide the information if you need assistance in order for IRCC to make the necessary arrangements to accommodate you.

        Section 2

        Question 2 Have you applied for Canadian citizenship before? If yes, write the year when you last applied.

        Section 3

        Question 3A

        Copy the Client ID# or Unique Client Identifier (UCI) exactly as it appears on your most recent immigration document. Immigration documents include:

        • Work permit (IMM 1102 or IMM1442B
        • Permanent Resident Card (PR card)
        • Confirmation of Permanent Residence (IMM 5292 or IMM 5688)
        • Record of Landing (IMM 1000)
          • If there is no client ID number listed, provide the document number located at the bottom right corner that begins with a W followed by 9 digits (Example: W 012 345 678)

          Write your last name (surname/family name) and given name(s) exactly as they appear on your immigration document. If your name was shortened (truncated) on the immigration document, it will appear in full length on your citizenship certificate, up to 50 characters for the family name(s) and 50 characters for the given name(s).

          Write your current last name (surname/family name) and given name(s), if different from question 3B.

          Important information: You must provide supporting documents for any change in your name. See: “Name Change” in the Gather Documents section.

          • have used another name in the past (such as your birth name, married name), or
          • are known by a name other than the one you listed above (such as a nickname or community name).

          Section 4

          Question 4A
          • date of birth exactly as it appears on your immigration document (examples are noted in Question 3A above), and
          • place of birth, including the city or town and country.

          Are you requesting a different date of birth on your citizenship certificate?

          If yes, see Date of birth correction section in this guide in Gather Documents.

          Note: A request for a different date of birth is subject to approval by IRCC.

          Question 4B

          Check the box or indicate your:

          • gender (whether you are F Female, M Male or X Another gender)
          • height (how tall you are), either in centimeters or feet/inches
          • eye colour, and
          • legal marital status.

          Important information: This information must be completed for our records. Gender, eye colour and height will be shown on your citizenship certificate.

          Section 5

          Question 5A

          Write your current home address, complete with:

          • street address
          • city or town
          • province or territory
          • postal code

          Complete if mailing address is different from home address.

          If the mailing address is that of a representative, you must indicate their mailing address(es) in this section and complete the IMM 5476 form.

          List the telephone number(s) where you can be reached.

          Write how long you have lived at your current home address.

          Indicate your e-mail address using this format (if applicable): name@provider.net

          If you provide your e-mail address, IRCC may correspond with you about your application via e-mail if necessary.

          If the e-mail address is that of a representative, you must indicate their e-mail address in this section and complete the IMM 5476 form.

          Section 6

          Question 6A

          Check the box to indicate if you are a permanent resident (landed immigrant). If yes, write the date when you became a permanent resident (landed immigrant).

          To find this date, refer to your:

          • Record of Landing – IMM 1000
          • Confirmation of Permanent Residence – IMM 5292
          • Confirmation of Permanent Residence – IMM 5688
          • Permanent Resident Card

          Your entry to Canada and your status will be verified by Canadian officials.

          If conditions were imposed at the time you were granted permanent resident status that you have not complied with, you should contact your local IRCC office to clarify this situation before applying for citizenship. You cannot be granted citizenship if you have unfulfilled (outstanding) conditions relating to your status as a permanent resident.

          Write the date when you first came to Canada to live.

          List all countries of which you are a citizen.

          Write if you are a permanent resident (or the equivalent) of any country other than Canada.

          If yes, list the country (countries) and the date(s) you obtained this status.

          Write all your Canadian addresses for the six (6) years immediately before the date of your application, including the postal codes.

          If you were residing, employed or attending school outside Canada, you must also list all your foreign addresses, including the postal codes.

          1. Check the box to indicate if you are or were enrolled in the Canadian Armed Forces during the six (6) years immediately before the date of your application. If yes, provide the details.
          2. Check the box to indicate if you are or were attached or seconded to the Canadian Armed Forces during the six (6) years immediately before the date of your application. If yes, provide the details.
          3. Check the box to indicate if you were released from the Canadian Armed Forces during the six (6) years immediately before the date of your application. If yes, provide the date of release and check the box to indicate the category of release.

          • Other than honourable release (Item 1, Misconduct; Item 2, Unsatisfactory Service)
          • Honourable release (Item 3, Medical; Item 4, Voluntary; Item 5, Service Completed)
          • as set out in the Queen’s Regulation and Orders, Article 15.01 Release of Officers and Non-Commissioned Members.

          Under the Income Tax Act

          • you may need to file income tax returns for 3 taxation years
          • these 3 years must be fully or partially within the 6 years before you apply for citizenship

          Check the box to indicate if you have a social insurance number (SIN), a temporary tax number (TTN) or an individual tax number (ITN).

          If you check “Yes”

          • Provide the most recent number that you used to file your income taxes (SIN, TTN or ITN).
          • For the past 6 taxation years
            • write the years for which you needed to file personal income taxes
            • under Required to file column
              • check “Yes” if you needed to file your income tax that year.
              • check “No” if you didn’t need to file a tax return that year
              • check “Yes” if you filed a tax return that year
              • check “No” if you didn’t file a tax return that year

              With your consent, we’ll

              • share your income tax filing information with the CRA
              • use this information to check if you meet the income tax filing and physical presence requirements of the Citizenship Act

              If you don’t provide your consent, we’ll return your application to you without processing it.

              If you check “No”

              You’re declaring that you don’t have a SIN, TTN or ITN.

              To check your personal tax information, you may refer to the CRA’s My Account online.

              Section 7

              Question 7A Check which type of language proof you are submitting. See Language Proof section in this guide in “Step 1. Gather Documents” Question 7B Check the box to indicate if you are deaf and whether this affects your ability to submit proof of language ability. You must submit supporting documentary evidence to assist decision makers in understanding the basis of your claim. See Language Proof section in this guide in “Step 1. Gather Documents”. Question 7C Check the box to indicate if you have a disorder, disability or condition that is cognitive, psychiatric or psychological in nature which affects your ability to submit proof of language ability. You must submit supporting documentary evidence to assist decision makers in understanding the basis of your claim.

              Section 8

              Question 8A-J

              Answer all of the questions by checking "Yes" or "No". For any yes responses provide details and if applicable, attach court documents.

              Note: IRCC checks with the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) and the Canadian Security and Intelligence Service (CSIS) to find out if there are any criminal or security reasons which could prevent you from acquiring Canadian citizenship.

              You may be required to provide fingerprints and/or court documents to ensure that you are not prohibited under the Citizenship Act.

              Section 9

              Question 9

              Citizenship Certificate Type

              If your application is approved you will be issued a citizenship certificate as proof of citizenship. Citizenship certificates come in either paper or electronic (printable PDF) format. Citizens can have only one type of certificate but are allowed to print a copy of their electronic certificate.

              Check the box next to the type of citizenship certificate that you would like to receive, either paper or electronic citizenship certificate.

              Unless you have requested a paper certificate, you must provide an email address in the application form to receive your e-certificate.

              Section 10

              Question 10A

              Check either "Yes" or "No" to indicate whether you authorize IRCC to provide your name, address and preferred official language to your federal Member of Parliament so that they can send you a letter of congratulations if you become a Canadian citizen.

              Check either "Yes" or "No" to indicate whether or not you authorize IRCC to provide your name, residential and mailing address, gender, date of birth, Unique Client Identifier (UCI) and the date your citizenship was granted to Elections Canada in order to add you to the National Register of Electors (the Register). When you become a Canadian citizen and are 18 years of age or older, you have the right to vote in federal elections and referendums. Elections Canada maintains the Register and uses it during a federal election or referendum to produce voters’ lists and to communicate with eligible voters.

              The Canada Elections Act also allows Elections Canada to provide voter information to provincial and territorial election agencies for uses permitted under their respective legislations and to provide voter information (name, address, and gender only) to members of Parliament, registered political parties and candidates at election time. The UCI and the date your citizenship was granted will only be used by Elections Canada for administrative purposes, and will not be shared by Elections Canada except as required by law.

              If you check "Yes", IRCC will provide your name, residential and mailing address, gender, date of birth, UCI and the date your citizenship was granted to Elections Canada in order to add you to the Register, but only after you become a Canadian citizen. If you check "No", IRCC will not provide your information to Elections Canada. You will still have the right to vote in federal elections and referendums, but you will have to take the necessary steps to be added to the list.

              More information about the Register and its uses is available at Elections Canada. You can also call Elections Canada at 1-800-463-6868. Question 10C

              If you are 18 years or older and reside in Québec, indicate whether you authorize IRCC to provide your name, residential address and the date at which you started to reside at that address, gender, date of birth, your Unique Client Identifier (UCI) and the date your citizenship was granted to the Chief Electoral Officer of Québec so that your name can be added to the Permanent List of Electors (voters) if you become a Canadian citizen.

              Your application for citizenship will in no way be affected by your answer to this question.

              The Election Act allows the Chief Electoral Officer of Québec to:

              • provide voter information to provincial political parties and members of the National Assembly as well as municipal and school boards to compile and update lists of electors (voters) lists for municipal and school elections, and
              • notify the elector in writing that their name has been entered on the permanent list of electors, requesting that the elector correct or complete the information which concerns them, where required.

              The Chief Electoral Officer of Québec receives the UCI for administrative purposes only, while the date your citizenship was granted allows them to validate that you qualify as an elector based on the electoral laws it administers. This information is subject to no other use or communication.

              If you do not provide this authorization, you will still be able to vote, but you will have to go to the revision office and present two supporting documents to register your name on the list of electors to be able to vote in a provincial, municipal or school election.

              Check "Yes" box to authorize IRCC to contact the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) or the Department of National Defence (DND) to verify the details of your service and to use the information to determine your citizenship eligibility. By selecting "Yes" you are also authorizing the CAF or the DND to provide the details of your service to IRCC.

              Subsection 8(1) of the Privacy Act and paragraph 241(5)(b) of the Income Tax Act allows the CRA to provide personal information to IRCC, with the consent of the relevant individuals.

              This consent is required under paragraph 2(2)(d) of the Citizenship Regulations.

              Check "Yes" box to authorize the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) to provide details of your tax filing information to IRCC. By selecting "Yes" you are also authorizing IRCC to collect your tax filing information from the CRA in order to determine whether you meet the income tax requirement for citizenship.

              This section is to be completed ONLY if you successfully completed LINC/CLIC language training program at CLB/NCLC 4 from January 2008-October 2012 and you have no certificate available.

              Check "Yes" box to authorize IRCC to access your LINC/CLIC results in order to determine your citizenship eligibility.

              If you choose "No", you will be required to submit alternate acceptable proof of language ability with your application.

              Section 11

              Question 11

              If you appoint this person, firm or organization as your representative, you must complete the Use of a Representative form (IMM 5476) (PDF, 0.26 MB). Note that once you appoint a representative, all correspondence from IRCC regarding your application will be directed to them and not to you.

              For instructions on completing the Use of a Representative form (IMM 5476), see: Guide 5561 – Instructions – Use of a Representative.

              Section 12

              Question 12

              Sign and date the application form with the signature you currently use on other official documents.

              Note: Your application will be returned to you if:

              • the form is not signed and dated,
              • stale-dated (dated more than 90 days before IRCC receives it),
              • post-dated (dated into the future).

              Note: You must be eligible to apply for Canadian citizenship the day before you sign the application form.

              Note: Your application will be returned to you if:

              • You have appointed an individual, firm or organization as your representative and you did not submit the Use of a Representative form (IMM 5476) with your application or the form you submitted is incomplete.
              • You appoint a compensated representative who is not:
                • a member of the designated body (a consultant who is in good standing of the College of Immigration and Citizenship Consultants (CICC);
                • a lawyer or paralegal who is a member in good standing of a Canadian provincial or territorial law society and a student-at-law under their supervision; or
                • a notary who is a member in good standing of the Chambre des notaires du Québec or a student-at-law under their supervision.

                Citizenship photos

                • include two (2) identical citizenship photos
                • print the Citizenship Photo Specifications page and take it to a photographer to make sure you get the correct size photo
                • don't staple, glue or otherwise attach the photo directly to the application

                Your application will be returned if you do not include two (2) photos that meet the citizenship photo specifications.

                Translation of documents

                You must include the following along with any document that is not in English or French:

                • the English or French translation; and
                • an affidavit from the person who completed the translation (if they are not a certified translator).

                Translations may be done by:

                • a person who is fluent in both languages (English or French, and the unofficial language); or
                • a Canadian certified translator (a member in good standing of a provincial or territorial organization of translators and interpreters in Canada).

                If the translation isn’t done by a Canadian certified translator, the person who completed the translation must provide an affidavit swearing to their language proficiency and the accuracy of the translation.

                The affidavit must be sworn in the presence of:

                In Canada:

                • a notary public;
                • a commissioner of oaths; or
                • a commissioner of taking affidavits.

                Authority to certify varies by province and territory. Consult your local provincial or territorial authorities.

                Outside of Canada:

                Authority to administer oaths varies by country. Consult your local authorities.

                Important information: Translations must not be done by the applicants themselves nor by members of the applicant’s family. This includes a parent, guardian, sibling, spouse, common-law partner, conjugal partner, grandparent, child, aunt, uncle, niece, nephew and first cousin.

                Note: An affidavit is a document on which the translator has sworn, in the presence of a person authorized to administer oaths in the country where the translator is living, that the contents of their translation are a true translation and representation of the contents of the original document. Translators who are certified in Canada don’t need to supply an affidavit.

                Certified true copies

                To have a photocopy of a document certified, an authorized person must compare the original document to the photocopy and must print all of the following on the photocopy:

                • the name and signature of the authorized person;
                • their official position or title;
                • the name of the original document;
                • the date they certified the document; and
                • the phrase “I certify that this is a true copy of the original document”.

                Who can certify copies?

                Only authorized people can certify copies.

                Important information: Certifying of copies must not be done by the applicants themselves nor by an applicant’s parent, guardian, sibling, spouse, common-law partner, conjugal partner, grandparent, child, aunt, uncle, niece, nephew or first cousin.

                People authorized to certify copies include the following:

                In Canada:

                • a notary public;
                • a commissioner of oaths; or
                • a commissioner of taking affidavits.

                Authority to certify varies by province and territory. Check with your local provincial or territorial authorities to learn who can certify documents.

                Outside Canada:

                Authority to certify international documents varies by country. Check with your local authorities to learn who can certify documents in your country.

                Step 3. Pay the fees

                You must pay your fees online (opens in a new tab) . If you have forgotten your password for the online payment system, you can reset it.

                The fee is $630 for each applicant 18 years of age and older applying for Canadian citizenship.

                Calculating your fees

                If more than one member of your family is applying for Canadian citizenship pay the fees all together.

                Use the table below to calculate the total amount of fees to be paid. The fee payment receipt must be included with this application.

                Adult (18 and over)

                Processing fee ($530) and right of citizenship fee ($100)

                Minor (under 18)

                Processing fee ($100)

                Explanation of fees and refund

                This section describes the fees that are required and if they are refundable. All payment must be made in Canadian funds.

                Processing fee

                Amount: $530 for each adult and $100 for each minor

                You can’t get a refund of your processing fee once we start processing your application, even if you are refused. If you choose to withdraw your application, or abandon your application, you will only be refunded the Right of Citizenship fee.

                Right of Citizenship Fee

                Amount: $100 for each adult applicant

                You will be refunded your right of citizenship fee if you don’t become a citizen.

                The $100 Right of Citizenship Fee is in addition to the Processing Fee of $100 for a total of $200.

                Note: We will issue the refund to the person indicated on the Payer Information section of the receipt. If there is no name indicated on the receipt, we will send the refund to the applicant.

                Payment Issues

                No fee included or insufficient fees

                If you do not pay the full fees for your application(s) we will return your application(s). We will only start processing your application after you return it with the correct fees.

                For immigration applications, see section 10 of the IRPR and for citizenship applications, see section 13 of the Citizenship Act for more information.

                Overpayment

                If you pay more than the fees needed for your application(s) we will start processing your application, and send you a refund as soon as possible.

                Note: You don’t have to ask for a refund. It will be done automatically.

                Note: If you’re eligible for a refund, we will issue the refund to the person indicated on the Payer Information section of the receipt (if a receipt is attached to a paper application or uploaded as part of an online application). If you paid directly within an online application (no receipt attached), or if there is no name indicated on the receipt, we will send the refund to the applicant.

                Only online payments are accepted in Canada. If any other forms of payment are received, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) will return your application.

                How to pay the fees for your application

                To pay your fees for your application you’ll need:

                • a valid e-mail address;
                • access to a printer (you’ll need to print the receipt), and
                • a credit card, Debit MasterCard ® or Visa ® Debit card.

                Visit the link below and follow these instructions to pay:

                • Go to Online Payment.
                • Follow the online instructions.
                  • At the end, click on the button to print the IRCC official receipt with barcode. Print two copies.
                  • Keep the second copy of the receipt for your records.

                  Do not exit without printing the receipt! The printed receipt is your proof of payment!

                  Note: The only acceptable form of payment is online payment. If you send any other form of payment, IRCC will return your application.

                  Step 4. Submit your application

                  Send your completed application to one of the following addresses:

                  Mail your completed application in a stamped envelope to the address shown below:

                  Regular Mail

                  IRCC Case Processing Centre
                  CAF – Citizenship
                  P.O. Box 8200
                  Sydney, NS B1P 0G7

                  Courier

                  IRCC Digitization Centre - Citizenship
                  3050 Wilson Ave
                  New Waterford, NS B1H 5V8

                  If you are sending more than one application

                  If you are sending more than one application (for example, applications for family members), you may send one receipt to cover all applications. Mail the receipt (if applicable) and all applications together in one envelope so that they will be processed together.

                  Note: If you are sending more than one application, and one of the applications is incomplete, all the applications will be returned to you.

                  What happens next

                  Processing your application

                  The list below presents the phases of the Citizenship process of most applications. In some cases, processing may take longer.

                  Application review and file creation

                  The Case Processing Centre (CPC) in Sydney makes sure your application

                  • meets the minimum processing requirements;
                  • includes all the required documents;
                  • that the appropriate fee payment has been made.

                  If your application is complete, processing starts.

                  You will receive:

                  • acknowledgement of receipt;
                  • the citizenship study guide.

                  Note: The study guide is available in alternate formats including audio.

                  Your application will be returned if:

                  • it doesn’t meet the minimum processing requirements;
                  • doesn’t include the correct fee payment; and/or
                  • isn’t complete.

                  If returned, we send you a letter that explains why your application is incomplete and what the next steps are.

                  The letter will tell you:

                  • which forms, documents or fees are missing
                  • if you have to
                    • refill the application form
                      • if so, use the newest version of the form: Application for Canadian citizenship – Adults – Canadian Armed Forces under Subsection 5(1) [CIT 0532] (PDF, 2.92 MB)
                      • sign and date the form
                      • if the letter doesn’t ask for a new receipt, include the same receipt when you resubmit the application

                      Be sure to check the Document Checklist [CIT 0172] (PDF, 2.63 MB). Once you get the information we ask for in the letter, resubmit your complete application.

                      Prepare for your test

                      During the processing period, if you are between the ages of 18 and 54, you should:

                      • prepare for the citizenship test and/or interview on Canada’s history, geography, government, and the rights and responsibilities of citizenship based on the study guide and
                      • continue to maintain and improve your English or French if necessary.

                      If you have requested a waiver of the knowledge requirement (i.e., citizenship test), you will not be invited to the test. Instead, your waiver request will be assessed. You will only be invited to the citizenship test if you knowledge waiver request is denied.

                      If we invite you to an interview, test, and/or hearing, your invitation will tell you what to bring.

                      If applicable, you will be tested on your knowledge of:

                      • English or French
                      • Canada’s history, geography, government, and the rights and responsibilities of citizenship (the citizenship test).

                      We will send you one or more of these notices:

                      • Notice to appear to take a citizenship test
                      • Notice to appear for an interview with a citizenship official
                      • Notice to appear for a hearing with a citizenship officer or a citizenship judge

                      Decision

                      • The CPC sends your application to the IRCC office nearest to your home for further processing.
                      • The IRCC office completes the steps necessary for a decision to be made on your application.
                      • You may be asked to come to the IRCC office for a review of the original documents you submitted in support of your application, as well as your current passport and travel document. If applicable, you will be evaluated on your knowledge of English or French and on your knowledge of Canada’s history, geography, government, and the rights and responsibilities of citizenship.

                      Correspondence you may receive:

                      • Notification to appear to take a citizenship test; and/or
                      • Notification to appear for an interview with a citizenship official; and/or
                      • Notification to appear for a hearing with a citizenship official.

                      Take the oath

                      If you meet all the requirements for citizenship, the IRCC office notifies you of the time and place of your citizenship ceremony.

                      What you receive:

                      • Notification to appear to take the oath of citizenship
                      • Certificate of Canadian citizenship received at the ceremony after taking the oath of citizenship

                      Note: To avoid delays or closure of your application, tell us as soon as possible if you can’t attend the scheduled ceremony.

                      If you are unable to understand the significance of taking the oath of citizenship due to mental disability, you can request a waiver. To request an oath waiver, please provide a Medical Opinion Form for Citizenship Waivers [CIT 0547] (PDF, 2.59 MB), filled out by a medical professional licensed to practice in Canada. You should also provide any additional documentation that we should consider with your waiver request.

                      • Requesting a waiver does not guarantee it will be approved. Waiver requests are assessed on a case-by-case basis.