The Canadian citizenship interview is a crucial step in the naturalization process. It assesses your knowledge of Canada, your ability to communicate in English or French, and verifies your eligibility for citizenship. Here’s everything you need to know to prepare and pass with confidence!
1. Understand Who Needs the Interview
You may be required to attend a citizenship interview if you fail the written citizenship test (you’ll need to take an oral test instead), the immigration officer needs to verify your documents or application details, or you are 55 years or older (as you are exempt from the test but must still attend an interview).
2. Know What to Expect
The interview usually lasts 30-60 minutes and is conducted by a citizenship officer in person or online. It covers your application and background, residency requirement (confirming that you have lived in Canada for at least 1,095 days in the last 5 years), knowledge of Canada (questions about history, government, geography, and culture based on Discover Canada), and English or French proficiency (assessing your ability to understand and communicate).
3. Study the Discover Canada Guide
The interview may include oral questions from the Canadian Citizenship Test, so read Discover Canada: The Rights and Responsibilities of Citizenship, take online practice tests to familiarize yourself with the content, and listen to the audio version if you prefer learning by ear.
4. Prepare Your Documents
Bring the following to your interview: PR Card or Confirmation of Permanent Residence, photo identification (passport, driver’s license, or provincial ID), proof of language proficiency (if required), and travel history records (if requested). Having all documents ready ensures a smooth process and avoids unnecessary delays.
5. Improve Your English or French Speaking Skills
Since the interview tests language proficiency, practice speaking clearly and confidently in English or French, watch Canadian news or documentaries to improve comprehension, and engage in conversations with fluent speakers to build confidence.
6. Arrive Early and Stay Calm
Arrive at least 15 minutes early for your interview. Stay calm and confident—the officer is there to assess, not intimidate. If you don’t understand a question, politely ask them to repeat or clarify.
7. Know Your Personal Application Details
Be prepared to answer questions about your work and residency history in Canada, your family and travel history, and why you want to become a Canadian citizen. Honesty is key—never provide false information as it may result in rejection.
8. What Happens After the Interview?
If you pass, you’ll receive an invitation to the citizenship ceremony to take the Oath of Citizenship. If you don’t meet the requirements, your application may be delayed or denied, but you may be given another chance to reapply.