Nothing checked off yet

First visit? Here's how the map works.

Steps run in order. A dashed step is blocked: something before it has to be finished first.

Check a step off when it's done. Whatever it was blocking unlocks by itself.

Some steps are IRCC's to make, not yours. Those show as waiting and can't be checked off.

Start with step 1: Check you can apply

CitizenshipApplyStep 5 of 7

Blocked$653 per adult · RequiredYou are here

5. Submit your application and fee

You complete the application, attach your physical-presence calculation, language proof and identity documents, and pay the fee.

Waiting on: Count your days in Canada, Gather proof of your language, Check your tax filing

Open this step

The rest of the pathway, folded up

This view fits the whole pathway on one screen: the step you're on is enlarged, its neighbours are shown small, and everything further out is folded into a summary bar you can open. The idea is borrowed from degree-of-interest trees (Card and Nation, 2002).

Times and fees on this page are rough and change without notice. Check canada.ca before you pay for anything or make a plan around a date.

Step 5 of 7 · RequiredClose

Submit your application and fee

BlockedRequired

The authority on this stepCanadian citizenship: how to applycanada.ca · Government of Canada

IRCC is the only authority here. Our summary is here to help you find your way. If anything below differs from the official page, the official page is right. Requirements, fees and processing times change without notice.

Our plain-language summaryLast reviewed 29 July 2026

You complete the application, attach your physical-presence calculation, language proof and identity documents, and pay the fee. Most adults apply online; a paper route exists for those who can't. The 5-year window is measured from the date you sign.

Why it's required: An incomplete application is returned rather than processed, and the clock starts again. The presence calculation is the piece most often missing.

Fee$653 per adultA $530 processing fee plus the $123 right of citizenship fee.

Under 18$100A minor pays the processing fee only, with no right of citizenship fee.

Processing timeCheck the toolIRCC publishes a live figure; any number printed here would age badly.

Documents you'll need

Your physical presence calculation, printed or in your account
Language proof, for applicants 18 to 54
Two citizenship photos meeting the specifications
Copies of your PR document and all passports from the 5-year period

Before this step

BlockedCount your days in Canada BlockedGather proof of your language BlockedCheck your tax filing

Finishing this unlocks: Take the citizenship test, Interview with an officer, if asked