Frequently asked questions:
Applying for citizenship

Becoming a citizen

Can I apply even if I have been absent temporarily from Canada?

When calculating your eligibility for citizenship, you must subtract your absences from Canada. Only a citizenship judge can determine if you meet the residence requirements if you apply with fewer than 1,095 days of physical presence.

If you apply with fewer than 1,095 days of presence in Canada, a citizenship judge will evaluate the nature of your residence in Canada. You will be asked to complete a residence questionnaire and provide evidence that establishes residence in Canada, and you might be asked to appear in person before a citizenship judge. When you apply with fewer than 1,095 days of presence in Canada, your application will take longer to process and may be refused by the citizenship judge.

Deciding to apply with fewer than 1,095 days of presence in Canada is a personal decision that should be made carefully and take into account your personal circumstances. If your application is refused because you did not have enough days in Canada, you will then have to fill out another application form and pay the fee to go through the entire process again.

Related Links

• Citizenship calculator