While Canada is known as a multicultural community, there is little doubt that obtaining Canadian citizenship is desirable. In fact, more than 80 percent of candidates opt to apply for citizenship when they become eligible.
Are you a Permanent Resident in Canada? Continue reading to learn more about the benefits of Canadian citizenship.
What are the benefits?
There are many reasons why long-term Permanent Residents should consider applying for Canadian citizenship. Some of these reasons include:
- Canadian citizens cannot be deported.
- Unlike Permanent Residency cards, you do not need to renew your Canadian citizenship.
- Canadian citizens can vote in elections.
- The children of Canadian citizens are also entitled to citizenship even if they are born outside of Canada.
- Canadian citizens receive a Canadian passport (Canada’s Passport Power ranks 8th in the world)
Eligibility Criteria
Now that you know about some of the benefits of Canadian citizenship, you may be thinking about applying. To be eligible to become a Canadian Citizen, you must meet the following eligibility criteria.
- Age: Applicants 18 years old or older apply as adults, while those under 18 apply as minors with a parent or guardian.
- Status: Applicants must be Permanent Residents to apply for Canadian citizenship. Refugees must apply for Permanent Residency and then Canadian citizenship.
- Time in Canada: Applicants must be physically in Canada for three of the last five years. In other words, applicants must have spent 1095 days in Canada before applying for citizenship.
- Income Tax: Adult applicants must file their income tax for at least three of the last five years on the date of the application.
- Criminal history: Having a criminal record can prevent applicants from gaining Canadian citizenship.
- Language proficiency: Applicants between 18 – 54 years old must meet language proficiency requirements. They must possess a Canadian Language Benchmark Level 4 in speaking and listening in either English or French.
- Citizenship test: Applicants between 18 – 54 years old must pass the citizenship test. The applicant must answer at least 15 out of 20 multiple choice questions to pass. Questions on the test will focus on Canada’s history, geography, economy, government, laws, symbols, and the rights and responsibilities of Canadians.
New in Canada?
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