Guide CIT 0003 - Application for Canadian Citizenship - Minors (under 18 years of age)

Table of Contents

• Overview
• Before you apply
• Step 1. Gather documents
• Step 2. Complete the application
• Step 3. Pay the fees
• Step 4. Mail the application
• What happens next
• Need Help?

This is not a legal document. For legal information, refer to the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act and Regulations or the Citizenship Act and Regulations, as applicable.

This publication is available in alternative formats upon request.

Overview

Application package

This application package has:

• an instruction guide, and
• the forms you need to fill out.

The instruction guide:

• has information you must know before you submit your application and
• explains how to fill out the forms and gather your supporting documents.

Read the instruction guide completely and then fill out each of the applicable forms.

The forms are designed with questions that will help the processing of your application.

Symbols used in this guide

This guide uses these symbols to draw your attention to important information:

What you must do to have your application processed.

Important information that you need to know to avoid delays or other problems.

Where to get more information.

Before you apply

Who may use this application?

You may use this guide to apply for citizenship for your minor child. Read these instructions before you begin to fill out the application form. They contain important information.

Minor children must:

• be under 18 years of age at the time of the application;
• be a permanent resident of Canada;
• have at least one parent (includes adoptive parent) who is a Canadian citizen or who will become a citizen at the same time as the child (applying together as a family).

Minor children must not:

• be subject to any prohibition under the Citizenship Act (see section 11 of the application form CIT 0003); and/or
• have any unfulfilled conditions relating to their permanent resident status; and/or
• be under a removal order (asked by Canadian officials to leave Canada).

Note: A guardian may file an application on behalf of a minor child as long as the child has at least one parent who is a Canadian citizen.

What are the other requirements for citizenship?

If your child is 14-17 years of age when they sign the application, they must:

• have adequate knowledge of one of the official languages of Canada;
• be able to understand and speak basic English or French.

Note: You will need to submit language proof for your child with the application.

• be able to demonstrate in English or French adequate knowledge of:
  • Canada’s history,
  • geography,
  • government, and
  • the rights and responsibilities of citizenship

Note: Your child will need to pass a written and/or oral citizenship knowledge test.

Important information: The child could lose his or her present nationality or citizenship if he or she becomes a Canadian citizen. If you have any questions about this, you should ask the embassy, high commission or consulate of the country of your child’s nationality.

To apply for Canadian citizenship as an adult, you must complete the Application for Canadian Citizenship — Adults (CIT 0002).

Is your child already a citizen?

In general, a child born to a Canadian parent outside Canada before April 17, 2009, is a Canadian citizen. However, a child born to a Canadian parent outside Canada on or after April 17, 2009, is a Canadian citizen at birth only if that child is born in the first generation outside Canada, that is, at the time of their birth, their Canadian parent:

• was born in Canada, or
• became a Canadian citizen by immigrating to Canada (becoming a permanent resident) and being granted citizenship (also known as naturalization).

If your child is a Canadian citizen, use the Application for a Citizenship Certificate under section 3 (CIT 0001).

Is your child adopted?

Citizenship process for adopted people

Canada’s citizenship law allows persons adopted by Canadian citizens to apply for citizenship directly, without first having to apply for permanent residence (citizenship adoption process). To access this process, the Canadian adoptive parent must be born in Canada or have naturalized before the adoption took place (became a citizen after arriving in Canada as a permanent resident)

If the child is a permanent resident and was adopted outside Canada by a Canadian citizen who was born in Canada or naturalized before the adoption took place, you can apply for citizenship through a regular grant (this application) or you can apply for citizenship through the direct grant of citizenship for adopted persons.

The table below demonstrated the requirements which must be met for both types of applications.

This table compares the differences between the two processes regarding the passing on of Canadian citizenship to future generations, depending on the two streams of applications.

Some exceptions apply. For more information, visit Citizenship law and adoption.

Step 1. Gather documents

What documents are required?

The table below outlines the documents that you need to include with your child application. Refer to the Document Checklist (CIT 0008) to assist you gathering the necessary documentation.

Note: If any of the required documents are missing, or photocopies are not clear, your child's application will be returned to you.

Note: Additional documents may be required during the processing of your application.

1. The child’s Immigration record/paper

   • Record of Landing (IMM 1000)
     or
   • Confirmation of Permanent Residence (IMM 5292 or IMM 5688)
     and
   • Both sides of the Permanent Resident Card (PRC) if you have one

     Note: You must provide all of these documents in your possession. If any of these documents are no longer in your possession, please explain why.

   Format: Clear and legible photocopy

2. Language proof for children 14 – 17 years of age

   Select one of the following types of proof to submit with the application (if applicable):

   1. Report card or progress report which must show all of the following:
      • Completion of one academic year of instruction or a completed semester conducted in English or French, either in Canada or abroad;
      • Date(s) showing completion of studies within the four years before the date of application;
      • Province or Country and name of the academic institution

      Note: If the original document is in a language other than English or French then you must also include a letter from the academic institution indicating that the language of instruction was in English or French along with an official translation of the original document.

   2. Letter from academic institution which must show all of the following:
      • Completion of one academic year of instruction or a completed semester conducted in English or French, in Canada or abroad;
      • Date(s) showing completion of studies within the four years before the date of application;
      • Signed by an official from the educational institution or a school board official. Educational institution official refers to the principal, vice-principal, school director or teacher. School Board official refers to Board employees and trustees or School staff representative.
      • Contains the official stamp or seal of the academic institution or is printed on official letterhead.

      Format: Important information: Please note that CIC will only accept originals. If your Enrolment Confirmation Letter for citizenship purposes is missing information or the information is not correct, we will return your application to you. Please ensure all parts of your letter are completed prior to submission.

      Note: Academic institutions may use the template Educational enrolment confirmation letter for Citizenship

   3. Results of an accepted third-party test at the equivalent of Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB/NCLC) / Niveaux de compétence linguistique canadiens^{Note 1} level 4 or higher in speaking and listening either done previously for immigration purposes (acceptable even if expired) or done specifically for citizenship purposes. Test results from the following list are acceptable:

      • Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program General Test (CELPIP-G) or the CELPIP-General LS (listening and speaking), not the academic version.
      • For tests taken after April 1, 2014, the child must have achieved a score of level 4 or higher (up to 12) in listening and speaking
      • For tests taken before April 1, 2014, the child must have achieved a score of 2H or higher (i.e., 3L, 3H, 4L, 4H, 5L, or 5H) in listening and speaking.
      • International English Language Testing System (IELTS), general training, not the academic version. The child must have achieved a score of:
        • 4.0 or higher in speaking, and
        • 4.5 or higher in listening. (Please note: If the test was done before November 28, 2008, we will accept a level 4 or higher); or
      • Test d’Évaluation de Français (TEF), Test d’Évaluation du Français adapté au Québec (TEFAQ) or TEF pour la naturalisation.
        • After July 1^st, 2012, the child must have achieved a score of:
          • Niveau B1, B2, C1 or C2 in Compréhension de l’oral and Expression orale
        • Before July 1^st, 2012, the child must have achieved a score of:
          • Niveau 3 or higher in Compréhension de l’oral and Expression orale. (Please note: if the Test d’Évaluation de Français (TEF) was taken before July 1^st, 2012, a level 3 is required for expression orale only. This applies only to the TEF and not the TEFAQ or TEF pour la naturalisation).
      • The following list of proof will be accepted only if they have been previously submitted for immigration purposes to Quebec (please note that the following tests align with the (Échelle Québécoise and not officially with CLB/NCLC 4):
        • DALF (Diplôme approfondi de langue française) – Level C1 or C2; or
        • DELF (Diplôme d’études en langue française) – Level B1 or B2; or
        • TCF (Test de connaissance du français) – Niveau B1 or B2; or
        • TCFQ (Test de connaissance du français pour le Québec) –Niveau B1, B2, C1 or C2
   4. Proof of completion of a secondary or post-secondary program or a semester conducted in French or English, either in Canada or abroad, includes:
      1. A diploma or transcripts from a secondary or post-secondary school indicating the successful completion of a program or a semester, conducted in French or English, either in Canada or abroad. or
      2. A diploma or certificate from a secondary or post-secondary school indicating successful graduation from a program or a semester conducted in French or English, either in Canada or abroad.

      Note: The child must have successfully finished a secondary or post-secondary program or a semester in English or French. A single course done in English or French does not meet the requirement. If the original document is in a language other than English or French then you must also include a letter from the academic institution indicating that the language of instruction was in English or French along with an official translation of the original document.

   5. Proof of achieving Canadian Language Benchmark/Niveaux de compétence linguistique canadiens (CLB/NCLC) level 4 or higher in speaking and listening skills through certain government-funded language training programs includes:

      Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada or Cours de Langue pour Immigrants au Canada (LINC or CLIC):

      1. When applying, be sure to check the box if the child successfully completed the LINC or CLIC course at CLB 4/NCLC 4 or higher from January 1^st 2008 to October 31^st, 2012 and provide a copy of the certificate if available. If you do not have a copy of the child’s certificate, please check the box and their participation will be validated in our system.

         If the child successfully completed the LINC or CLIC course since November 1^st, 2012, a certificate will have been provided to them at the time of their successful completion of the course. A copy of this certificate is required as acceptable proof that the child meets the language requirements for citizenship purposes.

      2. For Manitoba: Manitoba Canadian Language Benchmark Report or English as an Additional Language (EAL) Student Progress Report from Manitoba Government issued between January 1^st 2009 and October 31^st, 2014. Ensure the child’s report indicates speaking and listening skills are at least at “completing CLB/NCLC level 4C” or higher (5B, 5C, 6B, 6C, etc.).

      3. For Quebec: Bulletins by the Ministère de l’Immigration, de la Diversité et de l’Inclusion du Québec (MIDI) or the Ministère de l’Immigration et Communautés Culturelles (former department name) if:

         The version was issued between June 1^st 2011 and October 16, 2012. Ensure that the child’s most recent assessment in “interaction orale” is level 4 or higher (Échelle Québécoise); or

         The version was issued since October 16, 2012. Ensure that the child’s most recent assessment is a level 4 or higher in “interaction orale” or “compréhension orale” (listening) and “production orale” (speaking).

         • Note: Bulletins with results from online FEL (Francisation en ligne) classes are not acceptable for citizenship purposes, e.g. these usually have a course code B or FEL. Note that bulletins issued by the MIDI or the MICC align with the Échelle Québécoise and not officially with CLB/NCLC 4.
      4. For British Columbia (BC):
         1. If your child received British Columbia’s English Language Services (ELSA) training in 2008 or 2009, an ELSA certificate confirming language level CLB 4 or higher in listening and speaking. (Please note that certificates were not automatically issued at that time and you may have to contact the ELSA program directly to obtain a copy. CIC will not make the request for you).
         2. If your child received British Columbia’s English Language Services (ELSA) training in 2010 or after, an ELSA report card or an ELSA certificate issued on or before August 31, 2014, confirming language level CLB 4 or higher in listening and speaking will be accepted. (Please note that certificates issued on or after November 1^st, 2012 automatically demonstrate a CLB 4 level or higher, even if not specifically stated on the certificate).

         Note: If your child attended an English as a second language course that is not sanctioned by the ELSA program, do not submit it. We will only accept courses sanctioned by the ELSA.

      5. For Ontario: Ontario Provincial Language Training Certificates dating from December 2013 or later, and issued by providers of the Adult Non-Credit Language Training Program funded by the Ontario Ministry of Citizenship and Immigration and International Trade (MCIIT), formerly known as the Ontario Ministry of Citizenship and Immigration. Ensure the child’s Ontario MCIIT Adult Non-Credit language training program certificate indicates achievement of level CLB/NCLC 4 or higher, in speaking and listening. These certificates must be for:
         1. English as a Second Language (ESL)/Anglais Langue Seconde (ALS)
         2. French as a Second Language (FSL)/Français Langue Seconde (FLS)
         3. Citizenship and Language Training (CL)/Instruction civique et enseignement de la langue (ICEL)
      6. For Saskatchewan: Since January 2016, Saskatchewan Ministry of Education provides a Statement of Language Proficiency for students of English as an Additional Language (EAL) based on the Common Framework of Reference (CFR) scale in listening and in speaking:
         1. All schools in Saskatchewan from Kindergarten to grade 12 (K-12) have the authority to deliver the certificate for English as an Additional Language;
         2. Level B1 is equivalent or higher to CLB 4.

      Note: If you do not have acceptable language proof for your child to submit with the application or your child does not have the required language level, you may choose to enroll your child in a government-funded language program that would help you increase their language proficiency, and succeed in obtaining certification at a level of CLB/NCLC 4.

      If your child is deaf, and you can provide one of the upfront proofs of the child’s language ability for citizenship (described in 1 to 5 above), please do so. If you are unable to provide such evidence, you must provide other supporting documents to assist decision makers in understanding the basis of your claim. The accepted supporting evidence is an audiogram issued by a Canadian audiologist, with a letter issued by the same audiologist attesting that your child is deaf and has severe to profound hearing loss, with little or no residual hearing, including an explanation as to whether and to what extent this impacts the child’s ability to listen and/or speak. Please note that we will not process your application and will return the entire application to you if your child’s audiogram and the letter issued by the same audiologist are not included.

      If your child has a disorder, disability or condition that is cognitive, psychiatric or psychological in nature which prevents you from submitting the child’s upfront proof of language ability for citizenship, you must provide supporting documentary evidence to assist decision makers in understanding the basis of your claim. Please note that we will not process your application and will return the entire application to you if such supporting documentary evidence is not included.

3. Biographical page of Passport(s)/Travel Documents of the child

   The biographical page means the page where it has your child’s name, photo, passport/travel document number, issue date and expiration date.

   Provide photocopies of the biographical pages of all passports and/or travel documents of your child (valid and cancelled) for the relevant six (6) year period immediately before the date of your application or since the child became a permanent resident. If the child was included in the passport(s) of one of the parents, provide copies of that passport(s)

   Also, provide photocopies of any renewal pages of the passport(s)/travel documents.

   Note: If any of these documents are no longer in your possession, provide an explanation in the space provided in question 9C on the application form.

   Note: If there are any gaps in time between the validity periods of the child’s passports or travel documents during the past six (6) years, or since the child became a permanent resident, whichever is more recent, provide an explanation in the space provided in question 9D.

4. Two (2) pieces of the child’s personal identification

   Both pieces of identification should show your child’s name and date of birth, one of which must have a photo on it.

   Examples include:

   • school record
   • health insurance card

   If there is information on both sides of your child’s personal identification documents, provide a photocopy of both sides.

   For a child under school age, identification such as:

   • a passport page containing his or her photo and personal details, or
   • a hospital or immunization record, may be provided

   Format: Clear and legible photocopy

5. Birth certificate or adoption order (in the case of adopted children)

   The document must show:

   • the child’s name,
   • date of birth,
   • place of birth and
   • the names of the parents or adoptive parents.

   For adopted children living in Quebec, you must submit one of the following documents:

   • jugement d’adoption
   • jugement sur requête en adoption
   • reconnaissance de jugement d’adoption
   • certificat d’inscription d’adoption
   • attestation d’adoption
   • lettre d’attestation d’adoption

   Format: Clear and legible photocopy

6. One (1) proof of the parent’s Canadian citizenship (if applicable)

   Examples include:

   • Provincial/territorial birth certificate
   • Certificate of Canadian citizenship
   • Certificate of naturalization
   • Certificate of Registration of Birth Abroad
   • Certificate of retention issued between January 1, 1947 and February 14, 1977

   Format: Clear and legible photocopy

7. Proof of guardianship (if applicable)

   • a legal guardian applying on behalf of the child must provide legal documentation proving guardianship

   Format: Clear and legible photocopy

8. Payment receipt

   For more information. See: “Step 3. Pay the Fees”.

   Receipt showing total payment of application fees.

9. Additional documents (if required)

   Possible documents are:

   • translation of documents that are not in English or French completed by a certified translator

     Format: See “Translation of documents”

   • supporting documents to prove name change
   • supporting documents to prove a date of birth correction

   For more information. See: name change and date of birth correction in this section

   Format: Clear and legible photocopy

10. Police certificate(s) (as required)

    You are required to provide a police certificate for each country where your child was present for a total of 183 days or more while the child was 14 years of age or older during the four (4) years immediately before the date of your child’s application. Consult How to get a police certificate (police check) for specific and up-to-date information on how to obtain police certificates from any country.

    Format: Original

11. Use of a Representative form (IMM 5476), if applicable

    For instructions on completing the Use of a Representative form (IMM 5476), see: Guide IMM 5561 – Use of a Representative

    Format: Original

Name change

Consult the table below to determine the documents that are to be included with your child’s application.

If you have legally changed the child’s name within Canada

Then you must submit a copy of the change of name document issued by a Canadian province or territory, or by the appropriate foreign-state authority. The document must show both the child’s previous and amended names.

The following documents are accepted:

• Legal change of name document
• Court order specifying name change
• Adoption order

The following documents are accepted for changes to family name only:

• Marriage certificate
• Divorce decree
• Registration or declaration of union issued by civil authorities
• Revocation of declaration or annulment of union issued by civil authorities
• Registration for common-law relationship, in provinces that permit changes of name for common-law relationships under their provincial/territorial law

If you have legally changed your child’s name outside Canada and the child is residing in Canada

Then you must provide a copy of the following documents:

• A foreign passport or other national authoritative documentation amended to reflect the new name;
• A document that links the child’s previous name to the new name, such as a foreign marriage certificate (with an official translation); and
• A document in the new name from Canadian provinces/ territories (ex. driver’s license, health card, age of majority card, senior citizen’s identification card, or social service card).

If you have legally changed your child’s name outside Canada and the child is residing outside Canada

Then you must provide a copy of the following documents:

• A foreign passport or other national authoritative documentation amended to reflect the new name;
• a document that links the child’s previous name to the new name, such as a foreign marriage certificate (with an official translation) or other foreign legal change of name document issued by foreign authorities; and
• an authoritative national or state/province (or equivalent) issued photo identification document issued in the country or state/province in which the child resides that displays the new name, such as:
  • a foreign passport or other travel documents, if the child is a dual citizen;
  • a state/provincial (or equivalent) identification card.

If you have applied and obtained an amendment to your child’s Record of Landing, or Confirmation of Permanent Residence due to errors made by Canadian immigration officials when recording your child’s name, then you must submit a copy of the amendment or a letter confirming the change of name.

Changing sex designation

If you are requesting a change of sex designation, you are required to submit documentary evidence to support the request. See below the options for documentary evidence you may submit.

Documentary evidence issued in Canada

To request a change of sex designation where the documentary evidence originates in Canada, you are required to submit one of the following:

• a legal order issued by a Canadian provincial/territorial vital statistics organization indicating a change of sex designation;
• a court order;
• an amended birth certificate indicating a change of sex designation; or
• proof of full or partial sex reassignment surgery.

Please consult your provincial/territorial website in order to verify whether you are eligible for any of the documents listed above.

If you have applied and obtained an amendment to your Record of Landing, or Confirmation of Permanent Residence due to errors made by Canadian immigration officials when recording your sex, then you must submit a copy of the amendment or a letter confirming the change of sex.

If you are unable to obtain any of the documentary evidence listed above, you will be required to submit:

• a Statutory Declaration – Request for a Change of Sex Designation (CIT 0404) stating that your gender identity corresponds with the requested change in sex designation, that you are living full-time in that gender, and the reason for which a provincial/territorial document was not submitted (see requirements for witnesses below);

  and

• the Support for a change of sex designation on an IRCC document (CIT 0552) from an authorized physician or psychologist stating that:
  • they are a practicing member in good standing with the appropriate regulatory body;
  • they have treated or evaluated you; and
  • they confirm that your gender identity does not correspond with the sex designation as recorded by IRCC.

Inside Canada, the statutory declaration will need to be sworn in the presence of:

• a notary public,
• a commissioner of oaths, or
• a commissioner of taking affidavits.

Documentary evidence issued outside Canada

Where the documentary evidence is issued outside Canada, you are required to submit the following:

• photo identification issued by the national, state/provincial (or equivalent) authority in which you reside, indicating the amended sex designation (such as a driver’s license or national ID card);

  and one of the following sets of documents:

  • if you are a dual Canadian citizen, a copy of your foreign passport or other national authoritative document indicating the requested sex designation; or
  • a document indicating a change of sex designation (such as a legal order issued by a vital statistics agency or an amended birth certificate); or
  • a Statutory Declaration – Request for a Change of Sex Designation (CIT 0404) stating that your gender identity corresponds with the requested change in sex designation, that you are living full-time in that gender, and the reason for which a provincial/territorial document was not submitted (see requirements for witnesses below); and
  • a Support for a change of sex designation on an IRCC document (CIT 0552) from an authorized physician or psychologist stating that:
    • they are a practicing member in good standing with the appropriate regulatory body;
    • they have treated or evaluated you; and
    • they confirm that your gender identity does not correspond with the sex designation as recorded by IRCC.

Outside Canada, the statutory declaration will need to be sworn in the presence of:

• a notary public.

Date of birth correction

The date of birth on the child’s citizenship certificate will be the same as the one shown on his/her immigration document unless you:

• have corrected the date of birth on the child’s immigration document or
• have legally changed it after arriving in Canada or
• are requesting a different date of birth for the child’s citizenship certificate and you can provide supporting documents.

If the date of birth has been corrected on the immigration document, then you must provide a copy of

• an approved Request to Amend Immigration Record of Landing (IMM 1000) or Confirmation of Permanent Residence (IMM 5292 or IMM 5688), and
• the new corrected Permanent Resident Card (if the child has one).

If you have legally changed the date of birth by a provincial/territorial court order, then you must provide a copy of

• provincial/territorial court order changing the date of birth, and
• completed questionnaire Request to Correct a Date of Birth for Citizenship (CIT 0464)

If the child did not change the date of birth by a provincial/territorial court order and the date of birth has not been corrected on the child’s immigration document, then you must provide a copy of

• a refused Request to Amend the Immigration Record of Landing (IMM 1000) or Confirmation of Permanent Residence (IMM 5292 or IMM 5688) and
• completed questionnaire Request to Correct a Date of Birth for Citizenship (CIT 0464), and
• documents to support the child’s new date of birth.

Important information: You cannot request a change in the child’s date of birth after the application has been submitted. If satisfactory documentation is not provided with the application to support the date of birth requested, the citizenship certificate will reflect the date of birth indicated on the child’s immigration document.

Important information: If you do not have a provincial/territorial court order changing the child’s date of birth, you must first request an amendment to your immigration document before requesting a different date of birth on your child’s citizenship certificate.

For more information. For information on amending your immigration document
Refer to the guide Request to Amend the Record of Landing, Confirmation of Permanent Residence or Valid Temporary Resident Documents (IMM 5218).

Quebec government documents

The following documents issued by the government of Quebec before January 1, 1994 are not acceptable documents in support of an application for a citizenship certificate.

• baptismal certificates
• birth certificates, and
• marriage certificates.

For more information. If you are currently in possession of one of these certificates you must obtain a new document by contacting the office of the Directeur de l’état civil du Québec

Exception to citizenship by birth in Canada

A child born in Canada to a foreign diplomat, a representative or employee in Canada of a foreign government, a foreign diplomat’s, representative’s or employee’s employee or an officer or employee of a specialized agency of the United Nations or another international organization who is granted diplomatic privileges or immunities is not Canadian at birth unless the other parent was a Canadian citizen or permanent resident at the time of the child’s birth.

Translation of documents

Any document that is not in English or French must be accompanied by:

• the English or French translation; and
• an affidavit from the person who completed the translation; and
• a certified copy of the original document.

Translations may be done by a person who is fluent in both languages (English or French and the unofficial language). If the translation is not provided by a member in good standing of a provincial or territorial organization of translators and interpreters in Canada, the translation must be accompanied by an affidavit swearing to the accuracy of the translation and the language proficiency of the translator.

The affidavit must be sworn in the presence of:

In Canada:

• a notary public
• a commissioner of oaths
• a commissioner of taking affidavits

Authority to certify varies by province and territory. Consult your local provincial or territorial authorities.

Outside of Canada:

• a notary public

Authority to administer oaths varies by country. Consult your local authorities.

Important information: Translations must not be done by the applicants themselves nor by members of the applicant’s family. Family member is defined as being a: parent, guardian, sibling, spouse, common-law partner, grandparent, child, aunt, uncle, niece, nephew and first cousin.

Note: An affidavit is a document on which the translator has sworn, in the presence of a person authorized to administer oaths in the country in which the translator is living, that the contents of their translation are a true translation and representation of the contents of the original document. Translators who are certified members in good standing of one of the provincial or territorial organizations of translators and interpreters of Canada do not need to supply an affidavit.

Note

Photographs

You must:

• provide two (2) identical citizenship photographs;
• print the Citizenship Photo Specifications page and take it to the photographer to make sure you get the correct size photo;
• follow the steps explained on the form; and
• not staple, glue or otherwise attach the photo directly to the application.

Your application will be returned to you if you do not include the two (2) photos that meet the citizenship photo specifications.

Your application will be returned to you if you do not include the two (2) photos that meet the citizenship application photograph specifications.

Step 2. Complete the application

Filling out the application

Follow the step-by-step instructions below to complete the application form.

The following are the forms that must be filled out and submitted:

• Application for Canadian citizenship – Minors (CIT 0003)
• Use of a Representative (IMM 5476), if applicable

Optional:

• Statutory Declaration – Request for a Change of Sex Designation (CIT 0404), if applicable
• Support for a change of sex designation on an IRCC document (CIT 0552), if applicable

Important information: If you are completing this application for a child under 18 years of age, remember all questions are about the child.

Note: The information you provide on your application may be subject to verification. Throughout the application process, if you or someone on your behalf provide any misleading or fraudulent information or withhold any information that could cause an error in the administration of the Citizenship Act, you could be charged with an offence under the Citizenship Act, your application for citizenship could be refused, and/or you could be prohibited from reapplying for citizenship for five (5) years.

Important information

Be complete and accurate

Complete all sections. If a section does not apply to you, write “Not Applicable” or “NA”. If your application is incomplete it may be returned to you and this will delay the processing of your application.

If you need more space for any section, print out an additional page containing the appropriate section, complete it and submit it along with your application.

Section 1

Question 1

Would you like to receive service (correspondence, interview) in English or in French?

Section 2

Question 2

Check the box to indicate if the child has any special needs. If yes, please explain.

Special needs are described as:

• wheelchair access
• sign language interpretation
• personal assistance (for example, the child will be accompanied by a care attendant, an interpreter, a seeing eye dog, a sighted guide, etc.)
• visually impaired (for example, the study guide is required in large print, audio version or Braille

Note: It is important to provide the information if the child needs assistance in order for CIC to make the necessary arrangements to accommodate the child.

Section 3

Question 3

Write if you have applied for the child to obtain Canadian citizenship before. If yes, you must tell us when you applied for the child.

Section 4

Question 4

Check the box to indicate if you are the parent or guardian of the child.

You must provide a document which proves the relationship between the parent and the child.

• If you are the Legal guardian
  then you must submit
  • a clear and legible copy of the legal document showing guardianship.
• If you are the Biological parent(s)
  then you must submit
  • the child’s birth certificate showing the names of the child and his or her parents
• If you are the Adoptive parent(s)
  then you must submit
  • a copy of the adoption order
  • Important information: For adopted children living in Quebec, you must submit one of the following documents:
    • jugement d’adoption;
    • jugement sur requête en adoption;
    • reconnaissance de jugement d’adoption;
    • certificat d’inscription d’adoption;
    • attestation d’adoption; or
    • lettre d’attestation d’adoption.

Section 5

Question 5A

Write the last name (surname/family name) and given name(s) of the child exactly as they appear on the child’s immigration document. If the name was shortened (truncated) on the immigration document, it will appear in full length on the child’s citizenship certificate, up to 50 characters for the family name(s) and 50 characters for the given name(s). Immigration documents include the child’s:

• Record of Landing (IMM 1000)
• Permanent Resident Card (PRCard)
• Confirmation of Permanent Residence (IMM 5292 or IMM 5688).

Question 5B

Write the child’s current last name (surname/family name) and given name(s), if different from question 5A.

Important information: You must provide supporting documents for any change in the child’s name. See “Name change” in the Gather Documents section.

Question 5C

Write any names the child has used in the past such as:

• birth name,
• nicknames, or
• community names, etc.

Section 6

Question 6A

Write your child’s:

• date of birth exactly as it appears on your child’s immigration document, and
• place of birth, including the city or town and country.

Are you requesting a different date of birth on your child’s citizenship certificate?

If yes, see Date of birth correction section in this guide in Gather Required Documents.

Note: A request for a different date of birth is subject to approval by CIC.

Question 6B

Write the child’s current citizenship.

Question 6C

Check the box to indicate whether if the child is male or female. Include the child’s height, eye colour, and legal marital status.

Section 7

Question 7A

Write the child’s current home address, complete with

• Street address
• City or town
• Province
• Postal code

Question 7B

If your mailing address is different from your home address, write your complete mailing address. If the mailing address indicated is that of a representative, you must indicate their mailing address in this section and complete the IMM 5476 form.

Question 7C

List the telephone number(s) where you can be reached.

Question 7D

Indicate your email address using this format (if applicable): name@provider.net

If you provide your email address IRCC will correspond with you via email where possible.

If the email address is that of a representative, you must indicate their email address in this section and complete the IMM 5476 form.

Section 8

Question 8A

Write the family name and given name(s) of the child’s parents.

Question 8B

Write the country and date of birth of the child’s parents.

Question 8C

Check box “yes” or “no” to indicate if the child's grandparent (s) was a Canadian citizen at the time of the parent's birth.

Question 8D

Answer this question if the child's parent acquired Canadian citizenship by birth or by naturalization before February 15, 1977.

Question 8E

Write whether the child's parent is the biological or adoptive parent(s).

Question 8F

Indicate whether the child's parent left Canada for more than one (1) year before 1977. If yes, provide the dates the child's parent was away and indicate the country they were staying in. If the child's parent acquired Canadian citizenship after February 14, 1977, indicate “N/A” (Not Applicable).

Question 8G

Indicate whether the parent was employed outside Canada as a Crown servant (in or with the Canadian Armed Forces, the federal public administration or the public service of a province or territory other than as a locally engaged person) at the time of the child’s birth or adoption.

Question 8H

Indicate whether either of the child’s grandparents was employed outside Canada as a Crown servant (in or with the Canadian Armed Forces, the federal public administration or the public service of a province or territory other than as a locally engaged person) at the time of the parent’s birth or adoption.

Section 9

Question 9A

Write the date when the child became a permanent resident of Canada. The information can be found on:

• the child’s Record of Landing – IMM 1000, or
• the child’s Confirmation of Permanent Residence – IMM 5292, or
• of the child’s Confirmation of Permanent Residence – IMM 5688,
• the child’s Permanent Resident Card.

Question 9B

You must let us know if the child left Canada for a total of six months or longer since becoming a permanent resident. If yes, give details of the time the child spent away from Canada. Use another piece of paper, if you need more space.

Question 9C

Check the box to indicate if you have all the required photocopies of passports or travel documents for the child for the relevant period. If you do not have all the required photocopies, explain why in the space provided. If the passport validity was extended, include a photocopy of the page(s) containing the extension stamp(s).

Question 9D

Check the box to indicate if there are any gaps in time in the validity period of the child’s passports or travel documents for the relevant period. If there are gaps between the validity of any passports or travel documents, explain why in the space provided.

Question 9E

Answer the question by checking yes or no. If your child is under 14 years of age, or was under 14 years of age while present in a country other than Canada, check not applicable (child under 14 years of age). The following examples may help you answer the question:

Example 1

In the past four (4) years, your child travelled with you on one (1) trip to France that lasted 200 days.

You would answer “Yes” to the question and you would need to provide a police certificate from France for your child.

Example 2

In the past four (4) years, your child travelled with you on 10 trips to the United States of America (USA). Each trip lasted three (3) weeks, for a total of 210 days.

You would answer “Yes” to the question and you would need to provide a police certificate from the USA for your child.

Example 3

In the past four (4) years, your child spent one year (365 days) studying in Singapore. While studying in Singapore, your child took a trip to Malaysia (10 days) and Thailand (10 days).

You would answer “Yes” to the question and you would need to provide a police certificate from Singapore for your child. You would not need to provide police certificates from Malaysia or Thailand.

Example 4

In the past four (4) years, your child travelled with you on one (1) trip to Europe where you and your child visited Portugal (5 days), Spain (7 days), France (10 days), Belgium (3 days), Netherlands (3 days), Germany (21 days), Switzerland (7 days) and Italy (21 days). Your child took a second trip to Europe where your child visited Ireland (14 days), Scotland (14 days) and English (21 days). Your child went to Germany on a student exchange program that lasted 60 days. The total time your child was outside of Canada was 186 days but your child was not in a single country for more than 183 days.

You would answer “No” to the question and you would not need to provide police certificates from any of the countries for your child.

If you checked “Yes”, list the name(s) of each country in the space provided below the question.

Your child will be required to obtain a police certificate for each country, other than Canada, where your child was present for a total of 183 days or more while the child was 14 years of age or older in the past four (4) years. See Police Certificate section in this guide in “Step 1. Gather documents.

If your child cannot get a police certificate from a country, you must provide an explanation in the space provided below the question.

Section 10

Question 10A

Check which type of language proof you are submitting. See Language Proof section in this guide in “Step. 1 Gather Documents”

Question 10B

Check the box to indicate if your child is deaf and whether this affects your ability to submit proof of the child’s language ability. If you are not able to provide proof of language ability, you may apply for a waiver from this requirement and in order to do so, you must provide documents in order to support your request. See Language Proof section in this guide in “Step. 1 Gather Documents”.

Question 10C

Check the box to indicate if your child has a disorder, disability or condition that is cognitive, psychiatric or psychological in nature which affects your ability to submit the child’s proof of language ability. You must submit supporting documentary evidence to assist decision makers in understanding the basis of your claim.

Section 11

Question 11

Certain conditions outlined in the Citizenship Act, may affect the child’s application for citizenship. To find out if this applies to the child, read this section of the application. If any of the questions in this section of the application apply to the child, you must provide details. For further information consult the Help Centre (see “Need Help?”).

You do not have to tell us whether the child was found guilty of an offence under the Youth Criminal Justice Act if the sentence was a youth sentence and it has been successfully completed.

Note: CIC checks with the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) and the Canadian Security and Intelligence Service (CSIS) to find out if there are any criminal or security reasons which could prevent the child from acquiring Canadian citizenship. Also, the child’s entry to Canada and status will be verified with Immigration officials. You may be required to provide the child’s fingerprints or court documents to ensure that the child is not prohibited under the Citizenship Act.

Section 12

Question 12

This section is to be completed ONLY if your child successfully completed LINC/CLIC language training program at CLB/NCLC 4 from January 2008-October 2012 and there is no certificate available.

Check Yes box to authorize Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) to access your child’s LINC/CLIC results held by CIC in order to determine your child’s citizenship eligibility.

If you choose No, you will be required to submit an alternate acceptable proof of language ability with your child’s application.

Section 13

Question 13

If you appoint an individual, firm or organization as your representative, you must complete the Use of a Representative Form (IMM 5476). Note that once you appoint a representative, all correspondence from CIC regarding your application will be directed to them and not to you.

For instructions on completing the Use of a Representative form (IMM 5476), see: Guide IMM 5561 – Use of a Representative.

Section 14

Question 14

The parent or legal guardian(s) must sign the application, using the same signature they currently use on other official documents. Enter the place (city, town or village) and date beside the signature.

Sign and date the application on the same day.

Note: Children who are 14 years of age or older must also co-sign the application form with the legal guardian who is applying on behalf of the child.

Note: Your application will be returned to you if the application form is:

• not signed and dated,
• stale-dated (dated more than 90 days before CIC receives it),or
• post-dated (dated into the future).

Note: Your application will be returned to you if:

• You have appointed an individual, firm or organization as your representative and you did not submit the Use of a Representative form (IMM 5476) with your application or the Use of a Representative form you submitted is incomplete.
• You have appointed a compensated representative who is not:
  • a member of the designated body (consultant who is in good standing of the Immigration Consultants of Canada Regulatory Council (ICCRC);
  • a lawyer or a paralegal who is a member in good standing of a Canadian provincial or territorial law society or a student-at-law under their supervision; or
  • a notary who is a member in good standing of the Chambre des notaires du Québec or a students-at-law under their supervision.

Step 3. Pay the fees

Calculating your fees

If more than one member of your family is applying for Canadian citizenship pay the fees all together.

Use the table below to calculate the total amount of fees to be paid. Fees must be included with this application.

Incorrect fee payment

Payment issue - No fee included

CIC will return your application.

Payment issue - Insufficient fees included

CIC will return your application.

Payment issue - Overpayment

CIC will:

• start processing your application, and
• send you a refund as soon as possible.

Payment issue – Expired payment

For expired certified cheques, bank drafts and money orders only. CIC will return your application.

Online fee payment

You can pay your fees online if you have:

• a valid email address;
• access to a printer (you will need to print the receipt); and
  • a Visa, MasterCard or American Express credit card or a prepaid credit card; or
  • a Canadian-issued debit card from BMO, Scotia Bank, RBC or TD. You must be enrolled in online banking. Credit cards that are also used as debit cards (e.g. Visa Debit) are not accepted.

Instructions

Follow these instructions to pay using the Internet.

• Go to online Payment.
• Follow the online instructions.
  • At the end, click on the button to print the IRCC official receipt with barcode. Print two copies.

Note

Do not exit without printing the receipt!

• Attach a copy of this receipt to your completed application. Keep the second copy of the receipt for your records.

Proof of payment

Use the printed receipt as your proof of payment.

Note

The only acceptable form of payment is online payment. If you send any other form of payment, IRCC will return your application.

You can submit an IMM 5401 payment receipt with your application only if it was date-stamped by a Canadian financial institution before April 1^st, 2016.

Step 4. Mail the application

Where to mail the application

Mail your completed application in a stamped envelope addressed as shown below:

Affix sufficient postage (top right of the envelope)

Sender (top left of the envelope)
(Your name)
(Your Address)
(Your Postal Code)

Recipient (centre of the envelope)
Case Processing Centre – Sydney
Grant – Minors
P.O. Box 7000
SYDNEY, NS  B1P 6V6
CANADA

Courier address:
Case Processing Centre – Sydney
Grant - Minors
49 Dorchester Street
SYDNEY, NS
B1P 5Z2

If you are sending more than one application

If you are sending more than one application (for example, applications for family members), you may send one receipt to cover all applications. Mail the receipt (if applicable) and all applications together in one envelope so that they will be processed together.

Note: If you are sending more than one application (for example, family members), and one of the applications is incomplete, all the applications will be returned to you.

Note

Reminders

Make sure to use the document checklist and include it with your application.

Here are some reminders to avoid your application being returned to you :

• You have answered all questions on the form or wrote “N/A” (Not applicable) for any question that is not applicable to you.
• You (parent or legal guardian) have signed and dated the form and the child has co-signed, if the child is 14 years old and older.
• Make sure before you send it that it is not stale-dated (dated more than 90 days before CIC receives it) or it is post-dated (dated into the future).
• You have included copies of the child’s immigrant documents: Record of Landing (IMM 1000) or Confirmation of Permanent Residence (IMM 5292 or IMM 5688) and both sides of the Permanent Resident Card if the child has one.
• If the child is 14 – 17 years of age, you have included a photocopy of language proof and the original if you are submitting a letter from an educational institution/ministry. Photocopies will not be accepted for this type of language evidence.
• You have included photocopies of the biographical pages of the child’s passport(s) or travel documents and/or photocopies of the parent’s passport if the child is included in that passport.
• You have included the child’s birth certificate or Adoption order.
• You have included the parent’s proof of Canadian citizenship, if applicable.
• If your child was 14 years of age and older and present in any country, other than Canada, for at least 183 days or more in the past four (4) years, you have included police certificates for your child issued by that country.
• You have included photocopies of both sides of two (2) pieces of the child’s personal identification, one of which must have a photo.
• You have included two (2) photos of the child according to the citizenship application photograph specification.
• You have included proof of payment and exact fees.
• You have included original translation and an affidavit by the translator for any documents that are not in English or French.
• You have included the Use of Representative form (IMM 5476) if you appoint a representative to communicate with CIC on your behalf regarding this application.

What happens next?

Once your application is received

Citizenship and Immigration Canada reviews your application to make sure:

• The necessary documents are all included in order to process your application, and
• The appropriate fee payment has been made.

When your application has been received by the Case Processing Centre we will send you:

A letter of acknowledgment confirming the reception of your application. If you provided an email address, you may receive an email acknowledgement, with a link to study guide.

The citizenship study guide (one study book per family) Note: The study guide is available in alternate formats including audio.

Decision

If CIC determines your child meets all the requirements for citizenship, you will receive:

• If the child is under 14 years of age

  You will receive

  • A request for your child’s original Record of Landing (IMM 1000) and Permanent Resident Card.
  • Once these documents are received, the citizenship certificate as well as the updated IMM 1000 will be sent by mail.

  Note: children under 14 years of age when the application is signed by the parent or guardian are not required to take the citizenship knowledge test or provide proof of language ability.

• If the child turns 14 during processing of the application, the child:

  • Is not required to take the citizenship knowledge test
  • Is not required to meet the language requirement
  • Is required to take the oath of citizenship (your child will receive a notification to appear to take the oath of citizenship)
• If the child is 14 years of age and older on the date of application
  Your child will receive:
  • Notification to appear to take a citizenship knowledge test and/or
  • Notification to appear for an interview with a citizenship official if your child does not pass the citizenship knowledge test and/or language ability screening

  If your child meets all the requirements for citizenship, the CIC office notifies your child in writing of the time and place of the citizenship ceremony.

• What your child will receive:

  • Notification to appear to take the oath of citizenship
  • Certificate of Canadian Citizenship received at the ceremony after taking the oath of citizenship.

  The ceremony notice will indicate that your child must bring to the ceremony their original Record of Landing (IMM 1000) and Permanent Resident Card, if they have one.

Note: Once your child becomes a citizen, your child will no longer be a permanent resident. The IMM 1000 will be updated accordingly and returned, and the Permanent Resident Card will be cancelled and destroyed.

Important information

Updating your contact information

During the application process, you must advise us of any change of address or telephone number. You can do this by going to Change of address or by consulting the Help Centre.

Checking application status

You can check the status of your application online by doing the following:

1. Go to Check application status on the CIC website.
2. Follow the instructions provided.

Note: Your application status will only appear online once the application is received and the initial review by CIC is completed.

To obtain details on how to remove your application status information from the Internet, visit the Help Centre on the CIC website.

Protecting your information

Your personal information is:

• available to CIC and the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) employees who need to see it in order to provide the services to you, and
• not disclosed to other organizations except as permitted under the provisions of the Privacy Act or the Citizenship Regulations.

For more information. You can obtain additional information on the protection of your data by visiting the Help Centre.

Quality Assurance Program

Our quality assurance program randomly chooses applications for a special review. If chosen, we will ask you to attend an interview with an IRCC official to:

• verify that the documentation and any other information you submitted is accurate,
• verify that your application has been completed properly.

For more information

Current processing times

Processing time can change. You can check current processing times on the Application processing times webpage.

Need help?

If you need help, you can find answers to your questions by visiting the Help Centre.