Applying for Canadian citizenship is a significant step, but many applicants face rejection due to incomplete documentation, ineligibility, or mistakes in their applications. Below are the most common reasons why Canadian citizenship applications get rejected and how to avoid them.
1. Not Meeting the Residency Requirement
To apply for citizenship, you must have been physically present in Canada for at least 1,095 days (3 years) in the last 5 years before applying.
❌ Reasons for rejection:
- Spending too much time outside Canada
- Miscalculating residency days
- Failing to provide proper travel history
✅ How to avoid this:
- Use the physical presence calculator on the IRCC website to track your residency days.
- Keep travel records and proof of residence, such as lease agreements, bank statements, or tax documents.
2. Not Filing Taxes for the Required Years
Applicants must have filed income taxes for at least 3 years in the last 5 years before applying.
❌ Reasons for rejection:
- Failing to submit tax returns
- Providing incomplete tax records
- Owing taxes to the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA)
✅ How to avoid this:
- Ensure you have filed taxes for the required period, even if you had no income.
- Keep copies of your Notice of Assessment from the CRA as proof.
3. Failing the Citizenship Test
Applicants aged 18-54 must pass the citizenship test, which assesses knowledge of Canadian history, geography, government, and rights & responsibilities.
❌ Reasons for rejection:
- Not preparing adequately for the test
- Misunderstanding the test format
- Failing to meet the required score (15/20)
✅ How to avoid this:
- Study the “Discover Canada” guide, available online for free.
- Take online practice tests to get familiar with the format.
4. Insufficient Proof of Language Proficiency
Applicants aged 18-54 must demonstrate proficiency in English or French.
❌ Reasons for rejection:
- Not submitting valid language test results (IELTS, CELPIP, TEF, or TCF)
- Submitting an expired language test score
- Not providing proof of education in English or French
✅ How to avoid this:
- Submit a valid language test score (IELTS, CELPIP, TEF, or TCF).
- If you studied in English or French, provide transcripts or certificates from an approved institution.
5. Errors or Missing Information on the Application
Even minor mistakes can result in a delayed or rejected application.
❌ Reasons for rejection:
- Incomplete sections on the form
- Incorrect or inconsistent information
- Missing documents (e.g., PR card, passport copies, travel history)
✅ How to avoid this:
- Double-check your application before submission.
- Attach all required documents.
- If in doubt, seek assistance from an immigration consultant or lawyer.
6. Criminal History or Immigration Fraud
A criminal record can disqualify you from citizenship.
❌ Reasons for rejection:
- Having a serious criminal conviction
- Pending criminal charges in Canada or abroad
- Providing false information or misrepresenting facts
✅ How to avoid this:
- Ensure your record is clear of serious offenses.
- Be honest in your application. Misrepresentation can lead to citizenship bans.
7. Not Attending the Citizenship Interview
Some applicants are required to attend a citizenship interview with an IRCC officer.
❌ Reasons for rejection:
- Failing to attend the scheduled interview
- Not providing additional requested documents
- Inconsistent responses during the interview
✅ How to avoid this:
- Attend your interview on time and bring required documents.
- Review your application details beforehand to ensure consistency.