Citizenship

For individuals who immigrate to Canada, getting Canadian citizenship is the biggest accomplishment. Immigrants first have to become permanent residents before they can apply for Canadian citizenship.

Unlike permanent residents, citizens of Canada get the right:

• to vote and run for political office.
• to obtain a Canadian passport.
• to receive diplomatic support from embassies and consulates abroad.
• hold all kinds of government jobs that need a high-level security clearance.

Moreover, unlike permanent residents, Canadian citizens can travel and live outside of Canada as long as they want. They will never lose their Canadian citizen status and can return to Canada whenever they want.

Eligible applicants such as permanent residents have to undergo the Canadian citizenship test where they may also sit on an interview by a citizenship judge. Once the application for Canadian citizenship is approved, they attend a Citizenship Ceremony where they take the Oath of Citizenship and officially become a Canadian citizen.