Qualifying for Canadian Citizenship
As a general rule, individuals with three years of permanent resident status during the preceding four years can qualify for Canadian citizenship.
Applications are submitted at the local citizenship office in the area of an applicant’s residence. Applications may likewise be submitted directly to the citizenship office in Sydney, Nova Scotia.
Applications submitted through a local citizenship office are pre-screened to ensure that that the three year residence rule has been met. Applicants are thereafter scheduled for an informal interview with a citizenship officer to review the merits of the submissions in support of the application.
Within about 12 - 15 months from submission, applicants may be required to appear before a Citizenship Judge to provide evidence of their knowledge of one of Canada’ Official languages as well as an understanding of the overall Canadian political structure.
Applicants admitted to Canada on temporary status, can receive credit for one-half day to a maximum of one year, for each day of such temporary status in Canada.
Generally, actual physical residence is required. However in a number of instances, non-physical residence has been acceptable. The issue of physical and non-physical residence has given rise to substantial litigation and accordingly merits further consideration by prospective applicants. Speak to a qualified lawyer, if you have any doubts whether the duration of your residence qualifies you for citizenship.
