Waiting for your citizenship application to be processed can be stressful. This guide shows you exactly how to track your application and understand what each status update means. CitizenPass helps you prepare for every step — read on, then start practicing for free.
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How to Check Your Status Online
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Go to the IRCC website and click "Check your application status"
- Sign in with your GCKey or Sign-In Partner
- Navigate to "View my applications or profiles"
- Find your citizenship application in the list
- Click on it to see the current status
What You Will See
The status tracker displays:
- Your application number
- Current processing stage
- Date of last update
- Any messages or requests from IRCC
- Links to upload additional documents (if requested)
Understanding Status Stages
Stage: Application Received
What it means: IRCC has received your application and payment. Your file is in the queue for processing.
What to do: Nothing. Wait for the next update. This stage typically lasts 1-4 weeks.
Stage: In Progress / Background Check
What it means: IRCC is actively processing your application. This includes criminal background checks (RCMP/CSIS), immigration history review, and CRA tax verification.
What to do: Respond promptly to any document requests. Otherwise, wait patiently. This is the longest stage and can take several months.
Stage: Test Scheduled
What it means: You have been scheduled for the citizenship knowledge test. You will receive a notification with the date, time, and format (online or in-person).
What to do: Start studying immediately if you have not already. Use CitizenPass to prepare with 600+ practice questions.
Stage: Additional Documents Requested
What it means: IRCC needs more information or documents to process your application.
What to do: Read the request carefully and submit the requested documents as soon as possible. Delays in responding will extend your processing time.
Stage: Ceremony Scheduled
What it means: You have passed the test and all reviews are complete. You are invited to take the Oath of Citizenship.
What to do: Attend the ceremony at the scheduled time. Bring your PR card and photo ID.
Stage: Citizenship Granted
What it means: Congratulations! You are now a Canadian citizen. Your citizenship certificate will be issued.
Alternative Ways to Check Your Status
By Phone
Call the IRCC call centre at 1-888-242-2100 (within Canada) or 1-613-944-4000 (outside Canada). Hours are Monday to Friday, 8am to 4pm local time.
Have ready:
- Your full name
- Date of birth
- Application number (from your AOR)
- IRCC client ID (UCI number)
Through a Representative
If you have an authorized immigration representative (lawyer or RCIC consultant), they can check your status and communicate with IRCC on your behalf. You must have submitted a Use of Representative form (IMM 5476).
Online Web Form
You can submit an online inquiry through the IRCC web form if:
- Your processing time has exceeded the posted average
- You have not received an AOR within 4 weeks
- You need to update your contact information
CitizenPass Pro Tip: While waiting for your status to update, use the time to study for the citizenship test. Most applicants wait 12-18 months — that is more than enough time to become fully prepared with CitizenPass.
Common Status Questions
Why has my status not changed in months?
This is normal, especially during the background check stage. Security screening can take 2-6 months with no visible status change. As long as IRCC has not requested additional documents, your application is proceeding normally.
What if I get a request for additional documents?
Respond as quickly as possible. Upload the requested documents through your IRCC account. IRCC typically gives you 30 days to respond. If you need more time, contact IRCC before the deadline.
Can I speed up my application?
IRCC does not generally offer expedited processing. However, in urgent cases (employment requirement, medical emergency, etc.), you can request urgent processing through the IRCC web form with supporting documentation.
Staying Updated
Email Notifications
IRCC sends email notifications for major status changes. Make sure your email address in your IRCC account is current and check your spam folder regularly.
IRCC Processing Times
Check the IRCC website regularly for updated processing time estimates. If your application has exceeded the posted average by a significant margin, it may be time to inquire.
Pass Your Citizenship Test — With CitizenPass
Use your waiting time wisely. Thousands of newcomers have used CitizenPass to pass on their first attempt — completely free to start:
- 600+ Practice Questions — Same format as the real IRCC test, with detailed explanations for every answer
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CitizenPass users score an average of 18/20 on their first attempt — well above the 15/20 passing score.
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Frequently Asked Questions
1How often does the IRCC status tracker update?
There is no set schedule for updates. Your status may remain at the same stage for several months, especially during background checks. Major updates typically appear within 1-2 weeks of a change in your application.
2What does 'in progress' mean on the IRCC tracker?
The status 'in progress' means IRCC has acknowledged your application and is actively processing it. This includes background checks, document review, and CRA verification. It is the longest stage and can last several months.
3When should I contact IRCC about my application?
Contact IRCC if your processing time significantly exceeds the posted average, if you have not received an AOR within 4 weeks, or if you have been asked for documents and need clarification. Avoid calling for routine status checks.
4Can my immigration consultant check my status for me?
Yes, if you have authorized a representative (lawyer or consultant) through a Use of Representative form (IMM 5476), they can check your status and communicate with IRCC on your behalf.