Get Your Canada Dual Citizenship – Learn How to Apply
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Eligibility Overview
- By Birth: Anyone born in Canada (except children of foreign diplomats) is automatically a Canadian citizen.
- By Descent : Individuals born abroad to a Canadian parent may claim citizenship if the parent was born in Canada or naturalized before the child’s birth. (Limited to first generation born abroad.)
- By Marriage : There is no automatic citizenship by marriage, but spouses of Canadian citizens may apply for permanent residency and later for naturalization.
- By Naturalization: Foreign nationals may apply after living in Canada as a permanent resident for at least 3 years (1,095 days) within the past 5 years.
- Special Exception – Dual Citizenship Allowed: Canada allows dual and multiple citizenships. You do not need to renounce your previous nationality.
Step-by-Step Process
- Confirm eligibility through birth, descent, naturalization, or residency route.
- Submit application online or by mail to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
- Provide documents and take the Canadian citizenship test (ages 18–54).
- Attend the citizenship ceremony and take the oath of citizenship.
Benefits of Canadian Citizenship
- Travel with a Canadian passport
- Live and work anywhere in Canada
- Right to vote and run for public office
- Access to public healthcare and education
- Keep other citizenships — no renunciation required
Frequently asked questions.
Does Canada allow dual citizenship?
Yes. Canada has allowed dual citizenship since 1977. You can hold multiple nationalities without penalty.
Can I get Canadian citizenship through my parent?
Yes, if your parent was born in Canada or became a naturalized Canadian before your birth. Note: This is only valid for the first generation born abroad.
Does marriage to a Canadian citizen grant me citizenship?
No. Marriage alone doesn’t grant citizenship, but it can help with permanent residency, which is the first step toward naturalization.
How long do I need to live in Canada before applying?
You need to live in Canada for at least 1,095 days (3 years) in the past 5 years as a permanent resident.
Do I have to pay taxes in Canada as a dual citizen?
Canada taxes are based on residency, not citizenship. If you live in Canada, you’ll pay taxes on worldwide income. Living abroad as a Canadian citizen may reduce or eliminate tax obligations.
Does Canada recognize same-sex marriage for citizenship purposes?
Yes. Canada fully recognizes same-sex marriage, and spouses in these marriages have the same rights in residency and citizenship processes.