When you apply for Canadian citizenship, officials will review your application to confirm your status, verify that you are eligible, and ensure that you meet all citizenship requirements.
The citizenship application process may take several months. During this time, make sure that your contact information, including your address, remains up to date so that you receive important updates about your application.
Preparing for the Citizenship Test
Once you are invited to take the citizenship test, preparation is an important step toward becoming a Canadian citizen.
This study guide, contains all the information you need to prepare. Citizenship test questions are based on topics covered in this guide, including Canada’s history, geography, government, laws, symbols, rights, and responsibilities.
To prepare effectively, you should:
- Study the citizenship guide carefully.
- Practise answering questions about Canada with friends or family members.
- Join citizenship preparation classes offered by local schools, community centres, colleges, or immigrant-serving organizations.
- Improve your English or French language skills if needed.
Updated Citizenship Test Format (Effective March 9, 2026)
As of March 9, 2026, the Canadian citizenship test format has been updated. The test is now fully online and includes the following changes:
- The test is completed online instead of using previous testing formats.
- The test duration has increased from 30 minutes to 45 minutes.
- Applicants now have up to 3 attempts to pass the test, increased from the previous limit of 2 attempts.
The test contains 20 questions that are either multiple-choice or true-and-false. Applicants must answer at least 15 questions correctly to pass.
During the online test, applicants must use a compatible device with a webcam and complete the test under the required testing conditions. The system uses identity verification measures to confirm that the correct applicant is completing the exam.
After the Test?
If you pass the citizenship test and meet all other requirements, you will continue to the next steps in the citizenship process. You will eventually receive an invitation to attend your citizenship ceremony.
During the ceremony, you will:
- Take the Oath of Citizenship.
- Sign the oath form.
- Receive your Canadian Citizenship Certificate.
This ceremony marks the official moment when you become a Canadian citizen.
If you do not pass the test, you will receive instructions about the next steps. Under the updated format, applicants have up to three opportunities to successfully complete the test. If all attempts are unsuccessful, additional steps may be required by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
Start Preparing Early
Becoming a Canadian citizen is an important milestone. Starting your preparation early gives you enough time to review Canadian history, government, rights, and responsibilities.
By studying and practising regularly, you can feel more confident when completing the updated online citizenship test.
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