Overview
Citizenship interviews
A citizenship interview lets an officer verify documents and clarify eligibility. It may occur with or after the test and can focus on passports, physical presence, language ability or inconsistent information.
Read the invitation literally
Confirm whether the appointment is online or in person, the date and time zone, and every original requested. Notify IRCC promptly if an accommodation or rescheduling is genuinely needed.
Bring current and expired passports and identity records specified in the notice.
Review the filed application
Reconstruct travel, addresses, work, school, tax and immigration status during the eligibility period. Identify any correction that should be disclosed at the start.
Do not memorize a representative’s wording; answer the officer’s question directly.
Language can be assessed
For applicants subject to the language requirement, ordinary conversation may form part of the assessment even where accepted documentary proof was filed. Ask for an accommodation where a disability affects communication.
An interpreter is not ordinarily a substitute for meeting the language requirement.
Understand possible follow-up
The officer may complete the requirement, request more documents, schedule a hearing or continue background and presence review. Keep a note of what was requested and the deadline.
A concern about misrepresentation or residence warrants prompt legal review.
When to get legal advice
Get advice if the interview concerns credibility or misrepresentation.
Preparation can clarify the record without scripting evidence, and counsel can assess any fairness process that follows.
Travel dates materially differ
Language ability is disputed
IRCC alleges false information
A hearing rather than routine interview is scheduled
A focused question may only need 15 minutes.
Use the time to identify the issue, any immediate risk and the next sensible step. If the matter needs more work, the lawyer can explain the proposed scope before you decide whether to proceed.
Read what an immigration lawyer can do and how an immigration law firm may handle further work.
Frequently asked questions
Questions about citizenship interviews
Why did IRCC schedule an interview?
It may be routine or used to verify identity, documents, language, presence or another eligibility issue.
Should I bring original passports?
Bring every original and copy listed in the invitation.
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