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First visit? Here's how the map works.

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 1 of 7

Not startedFree · 30 minutes · RequiredYou are here

1. Check you can apply

You need valid permanent resident status on the day you apply.

Open this step

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 1 of 7 · RequiredClose

Check you can apply

Not startedRequired

The authority on this stepCanadian citizenship: who can applycanada.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 valid permanent resident status on the day you apply. An expired PR card is fine, expired status is not. Nothing else can be outstanding: no removal order against you, no unmet conditions on your PR, no prohibition for criminal or security reasons.

Why it's required: The card and the status are two different things, and people confuse them constantly. Applying without status means a refusal and a fee you don't get back.

CostFreeThe eligibility questionnaire is free and anonymous.

Expired PR cardStill fineYou can apply with an expired card, as long as the status itself is valid.

Time servedDoesn't countPrison, parole and probation are excluded from your days, and may bar you outright.

Documents you'll need

Your PR card or Confirmation of Permanent Residence
The date you became a permanent resident
Any record of removal orders or conditions on your status

Finishing this unlocks: Count your days in Canada, Gather proof of your language, Check your tax filing