Canadian Citizenship Test Steps — Complete Guide 2025
Becoming a Canadian citizen is a proud milestone — and understanding the process step-by-step makes your journey smooth and stress-free. This guide breaks down every step of the Canadian citizenship process, from checking eligibility to taking your citizenship test and interview.
Step 1: Check If You’re Eligible
Before you apply, make sure you meet the eligibility requirements:
You are a permanent resident of Canada.
You’ve lived in Canada for at least 1,095 days (3 years) in the last 5 years.
You’ve filed your taxes (if required) for at least 3 years.
You can communicate in English or French.
You understand the rights, responsibilities, and history of Canada.
If you meet these requirements, you’re ready to start your application.
Step 2: Gather Your Documents
You’ll need:
Your permanent resident card or landing papers.
Language proof (CELPIP, IELTS, or approved school record).
Identification documents like a driver’s license or passport.
Tax documents (T4 or CRA Notice of Assessment).
Prepare everything before starting your application to avoid delays.
Step 3: Apply for Canadian Citizenship
You can apply:
Online through the IRCC portal, or
By paper application if you prefer mail.
Pay your application fee ($630 for adults) and submit all required documents.
After submission, IRCC will send you an acknowledgment of receipt (AOR) to confirm they’ve received your application.
Step 4: Wait for Processing
The current processing time is about 10–14 months, depending on your case.
During this period, IRCC may:
Ask for additional documents.
Invite you to take the Canadian Citizenship Test.
Schedule your citizenship interview (if needed).
Step 5: Prepare for the Citizenship Test
The citizenship test covers topics from the Discover Canada guide, including:
Canadian history and geography
Government, symbols, and values
Rights and responsibilities of citizens
👉 You can practice all 547 questions for free on our Citizenship Practice Test page.
Each quiz is organized chapter-wise and topic-wise, helping you master every section easily.
Step 6: Take the Test
The test is usually 20 multiple-choice questions.
You need at least 15 correct answers (75%) to pass.
It can be done online or in person.
If you fail the first time, you’ll get one more chance to retake it.
Step 7: Attend the Interview (if required)
If an interview is required, a citizenship official will:
Review your documents.
Ask questions about your application or test.
Check your language skills (English or French).
This step helps confirm your eligibility.
Step 8: Take the Oath of Citizenship
Congratulations! Once you pass your test and interview, you’ll be invited to a Citizenship Ceremony where you take the Oath of Citizenship and officially become a Canadian citizen.
You’ll receive your Canadian Citizenship Certificate — your proof of citizenship.