When applying for Canadian citizenship, you must demonstrate that you have physically lived in Canada for at least 1,095 days (3 years) in the last 5 years before submitting your application. The Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) requires proof of residency to verify that you meet this requirement.
Key Residency Requirements for Canadian Citizenship
- You must have been physically present in Canada for at least 1,095 days in the past 5 years.
- If you were a temporary resident (e.g., on a work or study permit), you may count each day as half a day, up to 365 days.
- Time spent as a protected person or on a permanent resident visa counts as full days.
- You must file taxes for at least 3 years within the 5-year period, if required under the Income Tax Act.
How to Prove Residency for Citizenship
To confirm your residency, IRCC may request documents such as:
1. Official Immigration Records
- Permanent Resident Card (PR Card)
- IMM 1000 Record of Landing or Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR)
- Visitor, Study, or Work Permit records (if applicable)
2. Travel History
IRCC verifies your travel history to check if you left Canada during your residency period. You may need:
- Entry/exit records from the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA)
- Passport stamps showing entries and exits
- Visa records from other countries you visited
3. Proof of Address and Residency in Canada
Documents showing that you have lived continuously in Canada include:
- Lease or rental agreements
- Mortgage documents or property ownership records
- Utility bills (electricity, water, gas, internet, phone)
- Driver’s license or provincial ID card
4. Employment and Tax Records
- Pay stubs or employment letters from Canadian employers
- T4 slips and tax returns (Notice of Assessment) from the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA)
- Record of Employment (ROE) from previous jobs
5. Education Records (If You Studied in Canada)
- School transcripts and enrollment records
- Tuition payment receipts
- Student permit history (if applicable)
6. Health and Social Services Records
- Provincial health card and medical records
- Hospital visits or doctor appointment records
- Insurance documents showing coverage during your residency period
How to Calculate Your Physical Presence in Canada
Before applying, use the IRCC Physical Presence Calculator to determine if you meet the residency requirement.
What Happens If IRCC Needs More Proof?
If IRCC is not satisfied with your residency proof, they may:
✔ Request additional documents.
✔ Schedule an interview to clarify your residency status.
✔ Delay or refuse your application if they find gaps in your residency.