A person does not become a citizen of Canada merely because he has lived in the country for a very long period of time or even for his entire life. It is acquired by birth, by blood, by adoption, and by naturalization.
Naturalization is the legal process that transforms a permanent resident into a Canadian citizen. In order to be naturalized, the permanent resident must apply for a
grant of citizenship after certain criteria are met. Most of these applications are decided by a citizenship officer
Who can apply
To be eligible to become a Canadian citizen, 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
Other requirements may apply.