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Steps run in order. A dashed step is blocked: something before it has to be finished first.

Check a step off when it's done. Whatever it was blocking unlocks by itself.

Some steps are IRCC's to make, not yours. Those show as waiting and can't be checked off.

Start with step 1: Check you can apply

CitizenshipCheck you qualifyStep 2 of 7

Blocked1,095 days in 5 years · RequiredYou are here

2. Count your days in Canada

You need 1,095 days physically in Canada during the 5 years before the day you sign the application.

Waiting on: Check you can apply

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The rest of the pathway, folded up

This view fits the whole pathway on one screen: the step you're on is enlarged, its neighbours are shown small, and everything further out is folded into a summary bar you can open. The idea is borrowed from degree-of-interest trees (Card and Nation, 2002).

Times and fees on this page are rough and change without notice. Check canada.ca before you pay for anything or make a plan around a date.

Step 2 of 7 · RequiredClose

Count your days in Canada

BlockedRequired

The authority on this stepCalculate your physical presencecanada.ca · Government of Canada

IRCC is the only authority here. Our summary is here to help you find your way. If anything below differs from the official page, the official page is right. Requirements, fees and processing times change without notice.

Our plain-language summaryLast reviewed 29 July 2026

You need 1,095 days physically in Canada during the 5 years before the day you sign the application. At least 730 of them must be days you held permanent residence. Time here earlier as a student, worker, visitor or protected person counts at half a day each, capped at 365 days of credit.

Why it's required: This is the requirement applications fail on. The window moves with your signature date, so a calculation done months ago may no longer hold.

Days needed1,095 in 5 yearsAt least 730 of them as a permanent resident.

Pre-PR timeHalf a day eachCapped at 365 credited days, from 730 calendar days here.

CushionWorth havingApplying with days to spare protects you if a trip is miscounted.

Documents you'll need

Every entry to and exit from Canada in the last 5 years
Passports covering the whole period, including expired ones
Your Confirmation of Permanent Residence, for the date status began

Before this step

Not startedCheck you can apply

Finishing this unlocks: Submit your application and fee