Apply for a Canadian citizenship certificate: How to apply

Applying for a minor

For minors (under 18 years old), refer to our policy on parental consent. If you're applying for a minor, remember that the questions apply to the minor.

Get the application package

The package includes the instruction guide and all the forms you need to fill out.

Use the instruction guide to help you fill out the forms correctly.

You must:

• fill out all the forms
• include all documents listed in the document checklist

Missing information or documents can delay your application.

The first time you apply

If this is the first time you're applying, you will need to send:

• original documents or
• clear and easy-to-read copies of all documents
  • copies must be certified, meaning a person approved by us must compare the original document to the copy and confirm that they are the same
  • you can find more information about this in part 1 of the application guide

If documents aren't in English or French, you will need:

• the original documents, or clear and easy-to-read certified copies
• a translation of the documents
• a sworn statement from the person who did the translation

We can't accept translations by family members.

If you have applied before

If you have had a citizenship or naturalization certificate in the past, you must send:

• all originals you had before
• any pink transmission copies you still have
• photocopies of all other needed documents

Apply for proof of citizenship urgently

Processing times show how long it takes us to process applications for a citizenship certificate (proof of citizenship). We can process applications faster in special cases.

Apply for proof of citizenship urgently

Pay the application fee

You can pay your fee online. Other ways of paying your fee may be available depending on where you are applying from.

If you’re submitting more than one application at the same time, you can pay all the fees together.

You can’t get a refund once we start processing your application.

The instruction guide in your application package can help you understand which fees apply to you and show you how to pay them.