Who Must Take the Citizenship Test? Age & Rules

Not everyone applying for Canadian citizenship needs to take the test. Here is a complete breakdown of who does and does not need to sit for the exam. CitizenPass makes mastering this easy — read on, then start practicing for free.

The citizenship test is required for all applicants aged 18 to 54 at the time of signing their application. This age range also applies to the language requirement.

To apply for Canadian citizenship, you must meet all of the following requirements:

1. Permanent Resident Status

You must be a permanent resident of Canada. Temporary residents, refugees (without PR status), and visitors cannot apply.

2. Physical Presence

You must have been physically present in Canada for at least 1,095 days (3 years) within the 5 years before your application date. Time spent in Canada before becoming a PR may count as half days (up to 365 days maximum).

3. Tax Filing

You must have filed Canadian income tax returns for at least 3 taxation years within the 5-year period before applying.

4. Language Proficiency (Ages 18-54)

You must demonstrate adequate knowledge of English or French. This can be shown through:

• CLB/NCLC Level 4 or higher on an approved language test
• Completion of a secondary or post-secondary program in English or French
• Evidence of achieving CLB/NCLC 4 in a government-funded language program

5. Knowledge of Canada (Ages 18-54)

You must pass the citizenship test, demonstrating knowledge of Canada's history, values, institutions, and symbols.

6. No Prohibitions

You must not be:

• Under a removal order
• Under criminal charges or serving a sentence
• Charged with or convicted of offences under the Citizenship Act
• Having had citizenship revoked in the past 10 years

Minors (Under 18)

Children can be included in a parent's citizenship application. They do not need to take the test or prove language proficiency. A parent or legal guardian signs the application on their behalf.

Seniors (55 and Older)

Applicants aged 55+ are exempt from both the citizenship test and the language requirement. They still must meet residency, tax filing, and no-prohibition requirements.

People with Disabilities

IRCC may exempt applicants from the test if they have a medical condition that prevents them from taking it. A medical certificate may be required. Accommodations (extra time, oral test, etc.) are also available.

1. Check eligibility — Use the IRCC online tool
2. Gather documents — PR card, tax returns, language test results, photos
3. Submit application — Online through IRCC
4. Pay fees — $630 for adults, $100 for minors
5. Wait for processing — Currently 12-18 months
6. Receive Notice to Appear — For the citizenship test (if required)
7. Take the test — At your assigned IRCC office
8. Attend ceremony — Take the Oath of Citizenship

Even if you are still waiting for your test date, start preparing now. The earlier you begin studying, the more confident you will be. CitizenPass offers a complete study platform with 80+ lessons, 600+ practice questions, and AI coaching to help you pass the citizenship test on your first attempt.

Thousands of newcomers have used CitizenPass to pass their citizenship test on the first attempt. Here is what you get — completely free to start:

• 600+ Practice Questions — Same format as the real IRCC test, with detailed explanations for every answer
• AI-Powered Coach — Identifies your weak areas and builds a personalized study plan just for you
• 80+ Bite-Sized Lessons — All 12 Discover Canada chapters, broken into 10-minute study sessions
• Real-Time Progress Tracking — See exactly when you are ready to pass
• Bilingual Support — Study in English or French, switch anytime
• Mobile + Desktop — Available on iOS, Android, and web — study anywhere

Your Canadian dream is one test away. Join thousands of successful new Canadians — start your free CitizenPass preparation today.