After applying for citizenship

Overview

After applying for citizenship

Citizenship processing begins with a completeness check and may include background verification, physical-presence review, language assessment, a test or interview and, after approval, an oath ceremony.

Wait for the acknowledgement

An AOR generally means the application was accepted for processing, not that eligibility is approved. A returned package may require a new signature date and updated presence calculation.

Use the status tracker after receiving the identifiers it needs.

Respond to every request

IRCC may request fingerprints, passport copies, a residence questionnaire, tax information, an interview or additional records. Deadlines and submission channels differ by letter.

Explain any unavailable document and request time before the deadline where justified.

Complete test and interview stages

Applicants aged 18 through 54 usually receive a test invitation and may later be interviewed to verify identity, language, travel or eligibility. Review the submitted application before attending.

An interview is not automatically a sign of refusal.

Keep IRCC updated

Report contact and address changes and disclose criminal or immigration developments as required. Travel is possible, but the applicant must receive notices and attend scheduled events.

Citizenship is not acquired until the oath is taken, except for people who are already citizens by operation of law.