How to Get Dual Citizenship in Canada

Canada has set rules and regulations guarding its citizenship application process. Canadian citizens are free to have dual citizenship in any country they wish without it affecting their Canadian citizenship status. However, to apply for dual citizenship in Canada, there are a set of guidelines to determine your eligibility status.

In this blog post, you will learn almost all you need to know about applying for dual citizenship in Canada, from eligibility to processes involved in getting it done.

What makes you Eligible for Dual Citizenship in Canada?

To become eligible for Canadian dual citizenship,

• you must be a permanent resident of the country and must’ve been residing within the country’s territory for at least five years
• You must be able to speak and write at least one of the country’s official languages (English or French)
• You must have filed your tax for at least three years of your five years of residence, or IRCC won’t consider your application
• You must not have been convicted of any offense for at least four years before you apply
• You are currently not serving a jail term

The IRCC will reject your proposal if you fail to meet any criteria. A different set of requirements applies if you fall under these categories of people.

• Applying for someone under 18 years old
• Of you are a Canadian applying for an adopted child born outside of Canada
• If you are a past Canadian citizen who wants to reclaim your citizenship
• If you are currently a member of the Canadian armed forces

What will you get by being a Canadian Citizen?

You can partake in almost anything eligible for citizens when you get Canadian citizenship. Some of this includes;

• Voting in an election for municipal, provincial and federal political offices
• Holding dual citizenship of your home country and Canada
• Your offspring will automatically be Canadian citizens by birth
• Contesting for offices in all levels of government
• A Canadian passport will replace your permanent resident card. Using your Canadian passport, you can travel to many countries without needing a visa.

Steps to Becoming a Canadian Citizen

Now that you know the requirements and advantages of being a citizen, the next section will teach you about the process of getting dual citizenship in Canada.

1.    Get the Original Citizen Application Form

The initial step is to get the citizen application form. Note that there is a separate form for adults and minors. If you are above 18 years, you should obtain the “Adults Form,” while minors should get the “Minors Form” both are available online at the IRCC website.

2.    Complete and Submit the Correct Application Package

The next step is to complete and submit the application, and you can do this either on paper or online. You must submit all the necessary documents, including proof you can speak and write the country’s official language. The documents can either be submitted online or by mail.

3.   Citizenship Test or Interview

After submitting the necessary documents, you will take a citizenship test to determine if you are fit to hold Canadian citizenship. At the interview, the authorities will test your understanding of citizenship responsibilities, Canada’s history, geography, government, and voting processes.

4.   Oath of Citizenship

This last process of your citizenship application is taking the oath of citizenship at your citizenship ceremony. The ceremony is after the IRCC deemed you fit to become a complete Canadian citizen. It is at this ceremony you will receive your citizenship certificate.

Conclusion

Those are almost everything you need to know about acquiring Canadian dual citizenship. Note that dual citizenship doesn’t affect your Canadian citizenship unless you renounce it yourself through a legal order. Understanding the requirements and processes involved will be of great help whenever you are applying for Canadian dual citizenship.