Frequently Asked Questions

Canada

Q: What are the main requirements for Canadian citizenship?

A: You must be a permanent resident and have spent at least 1,095 days in Canada during the last five years. You need to have filed taxes, demonstrate English or French proficiency at CLB 4 or higher, pass a citizenship test on Canada’s history and government and have no serious criminal convictions.

Q: How do I apply for citizenship and how long does it take?

A: Use form CIT 0002, gather your documents and pay the fees ($649.75 for adults; $100 for minors). Submit your application online or by mail, provide biometrics if required and attend the test and interview. Most applications are processed in about eight months.

United Kingdom

Q: Do I need to take the Life in the UK Test and an English test?

A: Yes. Most naturalisation applicants must pass the Life in the UK Test and show B1 level English, Welsh or Scottish Gaelic. The Life in the UK Test has 24 questions and you need at least 18 correct answers to pass. Children under 18 and adults over 65 are exempt.

Q: What are the fees for British citizenship?

A: The naturalisation fee is £1,605 and the ceremony fee is £130, for a total of £1,735. The child registration fee is £1,214. Local authorities may charge additional ceremony fees. Fees are non‑refundable.

United States

Q: How many questions are on the U.S. civics test and what score is needed?

A: During the naturalisation interview you will be asked up to 10 civics questions drawn from a list of 100. You must answer at least 6 correctly to pass. Applicants aged 65 or older with at least 20 years as a permanent resident take a shorter version of the test.

Q: How much does it cost to apply for U.S. citizenship?

A: As of April 2024 the fee is $710 when you file online and $760 when you file on paper. The fee covers processing and biometrics and must be paid upon filing. Fee waivers are available for applicants with low income.

Australia

Q: How long must I live in Australia before I can apply for citizenship?

A: You must have lived legally in Australia for four years and been a permanent resident for at least one year. During the four years you cannot have been absent from Australia for more than 12 months in total, and no more than 90 days in the last year.

Q: What score do I need to pass the Australian citizenship test?

A: The test includes five questions about Australian values that you must answer correctly and you must score at least 75% overall. The test covers topics such as values, government, history and the responsibilities of citizens.