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 Nov 21, 2025
Canada is modernizing its citizenship laws. Bill C-3, An Act to Amend the Citizenship Act (2025), has received Royal Assent. This means that Canadians will soon have a fair, clear way to pass on citizenship to their children born or adopted outside Canada. Until Bill C-3 comes into effect, an interim measure remains in place for people impacted by the first-generation limit on citizenship by descent.
Find out:
Before you apply
Do you want to become a permanent resident?
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 and 2020
Get involved with your Canadian community
Reaffirmation ceremony, Canada Day, Citizenship Week