How to Expedite Canadian Citizenship Application

Are you tired of waiting for your Canadian citizenship application to be processed? The good news is, there are strategies and ways to expedite the process. Imagine the feeling of holding that Canadian passport sooner than you thought! While citizenship processing times can vary depending on numerous factors, this article will dive into actionable tips to fast-track your application. Whether you are a permanent resident looking to enjoy the full rights of citizenship or someone just starting their journey, you'll find these strategies invaluable.

Understanding the Usual Timeline for Canadian Citizenship

Before we explore how to accelerate the process, let’s first understand the normal timeline for citizenship applications. Typically, a Canadian citizenship application can take anywhere between 12 to 24 months, from submission to decision. It includes:

1. Application Submission: Once you’ve completed your residency requirements, you submit your citizenship application. This usually takes around 6 months to process the initial stage.

2. Background Check and Decision: The government of Canada will perform background checks, including criminal history and verification of your residency. This can add another 3-6 months.

3. Interview and Language Test: If required, you may be called for an interview, which includes a citizenship test and a language proficiency test, often adding another few months.

4. Citizenship Ceremony: Once your application is approved, you will receive an invitation to attend a citizenship ceremony. This is the final stage and can take another 1 to 2 months to schedule.

So, what can you do to speed this up?

Key Strategies to Expedite Your Citizenship Application:

1. Submit a Complete and Error-Free Application

One of the most common reasons for delays in processing is incomplete or incorrect applications. Missing documents, inconsistent details, or incomplete forms can cause your application to be returned, delaying the entire process. Double-checking all forms, submitting all required documents, and ensuring consistency in your information are critical.

To make this easier:

• Use the official document checklist provided by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
• If possible, consult an immigration lawyer or a licensed consultant to review your application before submission.

2. Pay All Applicable Fees On Time

Delays often arise from missed or late payments. The Canadian government charges specific fees for citizenship applications, and any delay in payment can pause the processing of your application.

Ensure that you:

• Pay the full fee upfront (approximately CAD 630 for adults, as of the last update) to avoid delays.
• Check for any updates to fee structures as they can change over time, which may cause unexpected delays if overlooked.

3. Choose Express Processing (If Eligible)

While Canada does not have a formal "fast-track" process for citizenship applications like some countries do, there are situations where you might qualify for faster processing, such as:

• Humanitarian reasons: If you have urgent reasons, such as family health issues or travel requirements, you may apply to have your application expedited. You’ll need to provide supporting documents that validate your request.
• Government requests: Some applicants are asked by Canadian authorities to become citizens quickly for national security or governmental reasons.

4. Keep Your Travel History Simple

One critical element of a Canadian citizenship application is proof of continuous residency. Applicants are required to prove they have lived in Canada for at least 1,095 days within the past 5 years before applying. A complex travel history with numerous short stays outside of Canada can complicate this.

To simplify your process:

• Limit travel before and during the application processing period.
• Keep clear and accurate records of all your travel dates and provide these in an organized manner with your application.

A straightforward travel history means the IRCC will spend less time verifying your residency claims, helping to speed up the process.

5. Prepare for the Citizenship Test and Language Requirement

The citizenship test can add time if you’re unprepared. If you fail the test, you will need to retake it, potentially adding months to your timeline.

You can expedite this stage by:

• Studying well in advance using the official study guide provided by the IRCC, which covers Canada’s history, values, institutions, and symbols.
• Taking online practice tests to ensure you’re fully prepared.
• Improving your language skills: Canadian citizens are required to have proficiency in either English or French. If your language skills are weak, take steps to improve them before applying.

6. Stay Informed on Processing Times

The IRCC updates its website regularly to reflect the current processing times for applications. Staying informed about the expected timeline and any updates in the process will allow you to be proactive.

You can:

• Monitor your application status online using the IRCC website or citizenship portal.
• Call the IRCC directly if you believe your application is taking longer than the standard time, but remember to be patient as their phone lines can be busy.

7. Avoid Changing Personal Information During Processing

If you change your personal details, such as your name or address, during the processing of your citizenship application, this could result in delays. Always ensure that the IRCC has the most up-to-date information about you from the start.

For instance:

• Notify the IRCC immediately if you move or change your contact information, but try to minimize such changes if possible.
• Avoid changing your legal name or marital status during the application process, as this may require additional verification.

8. Hire a Licensed Immigration Consultant

While it is not mandatory to hire a consultant or lawyer to apply for Canadian citizenship, having an expert handle your application can help prevent delays. A licensed consultant can:

• Ensure your application is error-free and complete.
• Help you navigate complex cases, such as those involving family reunification, criminal history, or residency irregularities.

However, make sure that the person you hire is authorized by the Immigration Consultants of Canada Regulatory Council (ICCRC) to avoid scams.

Case Studies: Real Stories of Expedited Applications

To illustrate these points, let’s look at a couple of real-life examples of individuals who successfully expedited their Canadian citizenship application:

• Case 1: Sarah, a Permanent Resident with Urgent Travel Needs
  Sarah was a permanent resident who needed to travel internationally for a family emergency. She applied to expedite her citizenship on humanitarian grounds, providing evidence of her mother’s critical health condition abroad. With the right documentation, her application was processed within 9 months, well below the usual timeframe.

• Case 2: Mark, a Skilled Worker on a Tight Timeline
  Mark, a skilled worker with a job offer requiring Canadian citizenship, was able to expedite his application by submitting a complete and error-free application and avoiding any unnecessary travel during the application period. His lawyer helped him track the status of his application regularly, which led to a smooth process. He received his citizenship in just over 12 months.

Final Thoughts

While there is no guaranteed way to dramatically shorten the wait time for your Canadian citizenship application, following these steps can help you avoid unnecessary delays and potentially speed up the process. Stay organized, be proactive, and make sure you’ve met all the requirements before submitting your application. The path to citizenship is a significant journey, and with these tips, you'll be holding that Canadian passport sooner than you think.