Get Your Canada Dual Citizenship – Learn How to Apply
Let us make your citizenship journey simpler. With step-by-step guides and our AI assistant to help you understand eligibility, we give you clarity, confidence, and support every step of the way.
Eligibility Overview
- By Birth: Anyone born in Canada (except children of foreign diplomats) is automatically a Canadian citizen.
- By Descent : Individuals born abroad to a Canadian parent may claim citizenship if the parent was born in Canada or naturalized before the child’s birth. (Limited to first generation born abroad.)
- By Marriage : There is no automatic citizenship by marriage, but spouses of Canadian citizens may apply for permanent residency and later for naturalization.
- By Naturalization: Foreign nationals may apply after living in Canada as a permanent resident for at least 3 years (1,095 days) within the past 5 years.
- Special Exception – Dual Citizenship Allowed: Canada allows dual and multiple citizenships. You do not need to renounce your previous nationality.
Step-by-Step Process
- Confirm eligibility through birth, descent, naturalization, or residency route.
- Submit application online or by mail to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
- Provide documents and take the Canadian citizenship test (ages 18–54).
- Attend the citizenship ceremony and take the oath of citizenship.
Benefits of Canadian Citizenship
- Travel with a Canadian passport
- Live and work anywhere in Canada
- Right to vote and run for public office
- Access to public healthcare and education
- Keep other citizenships — no renunciation required
Canada
Canada is the world's second-largest country by total area, spanning from the Atlantic to the Pacific to the Arctic Ocean. It is known for its multicultural society, high quality of life, stunning natural landscapes including the Rocky Mountains and Niagara Falls, and strong democratic institutions. Canada is a major global exporter of natural resources and a founding member of NATO and the G7.
- Capital: Ottawa
- Language(s): English, French
- Currency: Canadian Dollar (CAD)
Frequently asked questions.
Does Canada allow dual citizenship?
Yes. Canada has allowed dual citizenship since 1977. You can hold multiple nationalities without penalty.
Can I get Canadian citizenship through my parent?
Yes, if your parent was born in Canada or became a naturalized Canadian before your birth. Note: This is only valid for the first generation born abroad.
Does marriage to a Canadian citizen grant me citizenship?
No. Marriage alone doesn’t grant citizenship, but it can help with permanent residency, which is the first step toward naturalization.
How long do I need to live in Canada before applying?
You need to live in Canada for at least 1,095 days (3 years) in the past 5 years as a permanent resident.
Do I have to pay taxes in Canada as a dual citizen?
Canada taxes are based on residency, not citizenship. If you live in Canada, you’ll pay taxes on worldwide income. Living abroad as a Canadian citizen may reduce or eliminate tax obligations.
Does Canada recognize same-sex marriage for citizenship purposes?
Yes. Canada fully recognizes same-sex marriage, and spouses in these marriages have the same rights in residency and citizenship processes.