To apply for Canadian citizenship as an adult, you must:
- be a permanent resident
- be 18 years of age or older
- have been physically present in Canada as a permanent resident for at least 1,460 days during the six years immediately before the date of your application. You must also be physically present for at least 183 days during each of four calendar years that are fully or partially within the six years immediately before the date of application. See residence calculator.
- have an adequate knowledge of either English or French (see What is meant by “adequate knowledge of English or French”)
- have an adequate knowledge of Canada and the responsibilities and privileges of citizenship
- not be under a removal order (in other words, the Government of Canada has not ordered you to leave the country)
- not be a security risk
- not be criminally prohibited inside or outside Canada
- have met your personal income tax filing obligations in four taxation years that are fully or partially within the six years immediately before the date you apply
- attend a ceremony and take the oath of citizenship