Child Application for Citizenship

A Legacy of Citizenship

Acquiring Canadian citizenship for your child is a direct and important final step, securing their rights and future in Canada. This application process is designed to be completed by a parent or legal guardian, providing a clear pathway for your child to officially become Canadian.

Acquiring Canadian citizenship for your child is a direct and important final step, securing their rights and future in Canada. This application process is designed to be completed by a parent or legal guardian, providing a clear pathway for your child to officially become Canadian.

 

From Permanent Resident to Canadian Citizen

Citizenship is not automatically granted after becoming a permanent resident. The application process requires you to meet specific residency and knowledge requirements to demonstrate your integration into Canadian society.

 
Child of a Canadian Citizen

If you are a Canadian citizen, you can apply for your child to become a citizen. This process is generally simpler as the child does not need to be a permanent resident.

Child of a Permanent Resident

If you are a permanent resident, you can include your child in your own citizenship application, provided they meet the requirements. Alternatively, you can sponsor them for permanent residency first, and they can then apply for citizenship once they meet the residency obligation.

General Requirements

  • The child must be a permanent resident of Canada. Their PR status must be valid.


  • The child must be under 18 years old on the day you sign the application.


  • The child must be legally admissible to Canada, with no criminal or other prohibitions under the Citizenship Act.


  • The child's permanent resident status must not have any unfulfilled conditions.

Important Considerations

  • Identify whether your child falls under the first or second category, as this determines which forms you will use and which requirements apply.


  • Gather all necessary documents, including the child's birth certificate, proof of permanent resident status, and the parent's proof of Canadian citizenship (if applicable).


  • The parent or legal guardian must complete, sign, and date the application form on behalf of the child. Minors who are 14 or older must also sign.

Start your immigration journey with confidence

Whether you’re handling it yourself or need guidance throughout, we’re here to support you.
Start with a $49.99 one-on-one consultation.
 

Start your immigration journey with confidence

Whether you're ready to start on your own—or want advice every step of the way—we've got your back.
Start with a $49.99 one-on-one consultation.

Get the help you need to succeed.

Eligibility Assessment

We conduct a comprehensive review of your child's situation to confirm they meet all requirements and to determine the correct application pathway.

Document Compilation

We provide a detailed checklist and assist in organizing all necessary forms and supporting documents, including birth certificates and parental consent.

Application Strategy

Our consultants help you prepare a complete and accurate application package that minimizes the risk of delays.

Submission and Follow-Up

We ensure your application is submitted correctly and on time and can act as your representative for any follow-up with IRCC.

child walking in Canadian snow for citizenship or immigration process
Child Born Abroad

If you are a Canadian citizen with a child born outside of Canada, they may already be a Canadian citizen by descent. In this case, you may need to apply for a Proof of Citizenship Certificate, not a citizenship application.

Legal Guardianship

 If a legal guardian is applying on behalf of a minor, they must provide official court documentation to prove custody.

Concurrent Applications

It is often advantageous for a child to apply for citizenship at the same time as their parent, as it simplifies the process and waives certain requirements.

The Citizenship Ceremony (for children)

Age 14 to 17: Children in this age group are required to attend the citizenship ceremony with their parent or legal guardian. They must also take the Oath of Citizenship. Minors aged 14 to 17 are encouraged to be accompanied by the parent or guardian who submitted their application.


Age 13 and younger: Children in this age group are not required to attend the ceremony, but they are welcome to attend in most cases. They do not need to take the Oath of Citizenship. Their parent or guardian will sign the oath document on their behalf.

Canadian citizenship ceremony for child and family, swearing allegiance
people raising hands to take Oath of Citizenship in Canada ceremony

Citizenship for Adults

If you are a permanent resident aged 18 or older and are seeking to become a Canadian citizen, the process and requirements are different. Find out about the eligibility criteria, the physical presence requirement, and the citizenship test for adult applicants.

Frequently Asked Questions

No. Children applying with a parent do not need to meet physical presence rules. Those applying alone must meet different criteria.

Only if at least one parent is a Canadian citizen by birth or naturalization. Second-generation children born abroad do not inherit citizenship automatically.

Yes. The direct grant route allows adopted children to become citizens without obtaining PR first.

No. Only applicants aged 18–54 take the knowledge and language tests.

Yes, in certain circumstances (for example, if the child is a minor without a parent who can apply with them).

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CanadianVisas.com is operated by Can-Am Immigration Inc., a Canadian immigration consulting firm. We provide access to Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultants (RCICs) licensed by the College of Immigration and Citizenship Consultants (CICC), as well as full representation services and self-guided immigration tools. CanadianVisas.com is not a law firm and does not provide legal advice, except as authorized under the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act and the Citizenship Act of Canada.