Canadian citizenship
Preparing your citizenship documents
A citizenship application moves faster with complete, consistent documents. This is the list of the most common ones.
An overview
IRCC publishes the exact document list in the citizenship application guide. Here are the common items and tips for preparing them.
The key point is consistency: names, dates, trips and addresses must be the same on every form and document.
Canadian citizenshipKey points
Identity
PR card, passports and identity documents.
Travel history
To prove physical presence in Canada.
Language
Language proof or an equivalent document, if needed.
Addresses
Addresses where you lived in the period asked for.
The steps in short
- 1
Get the official list
From IRCC's guide for your category.
- 2
Collect documents
Clear, valid copies.
- 3
Check consistency
Match names, dates and trips.
- 4
Upload and submit
In the online application.
- 5
Keep copies
For later follow-up.
Common documents
- PR card
- Passports and travel documents for the period reviewed
- Language test result or equivalent
- Tax records
- Photos to the standard
- Proof of fee payment
Good to know
- Scan documents clearly and completely.
- If a document is in another language, a certified translation is needed.
- Watch the expiry dates of documents.
- Keep a copy of every document.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to translate my documents?
If a document is not in English or French, a certified translation is needed with a copy of the original.
What if I do not have a document?
Explain and provide a valid alternative. It is best to get advice before you submit.
Are tax records always required?
It depends on your situation. IRCC often checks through the tax system, but check the current guide.