Canadian citizenship

Apply to become a Canadian citizen, study for the test or get proof of citizenship.

Alerts

Status of changes to the first-generation limit on citizenship by descent Updated December 15, 2025

On December 15, 2025, the Government of Canada passed Bill C-3 to change the first-generation limit on citizenship by descent.

The Ontario Superior Court of Justice ruled in December 2023 that the limit was unconstitutional for many people. In March 2025, we introduced an interim measure to support those affected.

We will now process all applications submitted under the interim measure using the new rules.

Learn more about this change.

Do you want to become a permanent resident?

Explore permanent residence programs.

Apply for citizenship

Most permanent residents will follow the regular application process for adults and children:

If you belong to one of these groups, you may also be eligible for another application type:

Citizenship test and ceremony

Take the test

Who has to take the test, test format, test invitation, how to take the test

Citizenship ceremony and oath

Get your ceremony date, what to bring, what happens at the ceremony

Study for the test

Read online, listen to the audio version, or order a paper copy of the study guide

Other citizenship services

Apply for a Canadian passport

Get a new passport after you become a citizen

Get proof of citizenship

Apply for, replace or update your citizenship certificate

Resume citizenship

Become a Canadian citizen again after giving up your citizenship

Give up citizenship

Renounce citizenship if you no longer want to be Canadian or can’t be a dual citizen

Changes to citizenship rules and regulations

Find out what rules changed in 2009, 2015, 2017, 2020 and 2025

Get involved with your Canadian community

Reaffirmation ceremony, Canada Day, Citizenship Week

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2025-12-15