Citizenship: Reasons for waiving requirements

This section contains policy, procedures and guidance used by IRCC staff. It is posted on the department’s website as a courtesy to stakeholders.

Certain requirements for a grant or renunciation of citizenship can be waived.

Situations where requirements may be waived

Subsection 5(3) of the Citizenship Act states that the Minister can waive some of the requirements on compassionate grounds for granting citizenship.
Subsection 7.1(3) of the Citizenship Regulations states that the Minister can waive one of the requirements on compassionate grounds for an adult renouncing citizenship.
Subsection 9(2) of the Act states that the Minister can waive some of the requirements on compassionate grounds for an adult renouncing citizenship.