Residence
3 yrs
Via marriage
—
By descent
Ancestors
Dual citizenship
Allowed
Recent change: Bill C-3 expanded citizenship by descent from 15 December 2025.
Naturalisation by residence
1,095 days (3 years) physically present in Canada during the 5 years before applying, as a permanent resident (some time before PR can partly count). You must also have filed taxes.
Through marriage
No shortcut: spouses of Canadians usually become permanent residents through family sponsorship, then meet the same 1,095-day rule.
By descent (ancestry)
Bill C-3 (in force since 15 December 2025) removed the first-generation limit for people born abroad before 15 December 2025, so many with a Canadian grandparent or earlier ancestor may now qualify. For children born after that date, a parent who is a citizen by descent must have spent 1,095 days in Canada before the birth.
Language & tests
CLB 4 English or French and a citizenship test, for applicants aged 18–54.
Dual citizenship
Canada fully allows dual and multiple citizenship.
Frequently asked questions
How many years does it take to get Canada citizenship?
The standard requirement is 3 years. 1,095 days (3 years) physically present in Canada during the 5 years before applying, as a permanent resident (some time before PR can partly count). You must also have filed taxes.
Does Canada allow dual citizenship?
Allowed. Canada fully allows dual and multiple citizenship.
Can I get Canada citizenship through marriage?
No shortcut: spouses of Canadians usually become permanent residents through family sponsorship, then meet the same 1,095-day rule.
Can I get Canada citizenship through my parents or grandparents?
Bill C-3 (in force since 15 December 2025) removed the first-generation limit for people born abroad before 15 December 2025, so many with a Canadian grandparent or earlier ancestor may now qualify. For children born after that date, a parent who is a citizen by descent must have spent 1,095 days in Canada before the birth.
This guide is general information, not legal advice. Requirements change and individual circumstances matter; confirm with Government of Canada – Citizenship or a qualified immigration lawyer before applying.