CITIZENSHIP
What does it mean to be a Canadian citizen?
Citizenship means working together with all other Canadians
to build a stronger Canada, and making sure our values,
dreams and goals are reflected in our institutions,
laws and relations with one another.
After living in Canada for at least three years as
a permanent resident, you have the right to apply for
Canadian citizenship.
Canada is a country that :
- Is free and democratic;
- Is multicultural;
- Has two official languages; and
- Extends equal treatment to all its citizens.
What are the rights and responsibilities of a citizen?
The Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms sets out
the democratic rights and fundamental freedoms of all
Canadians. Some rights are essential for Canadian citizens:
- The right to vote or to be a candidate in federal
and provincial elections;
- The right to enter, remain in or leave Canada;
- The right to earn a living and reside in any province
or territory;
- Minority language education rights (English or French);
and
- The right to apply for a Canadian passport.
Canadian citizenship also implies the following responsibilities:
- To obey Canada's laws;
- To vote in the federal, provincial and municipal
elections;
- To discourage discrimination and injustice;
- To respect the rights of others;
- To respect public and private property; and
- To support Canada's ideals in building the country
we all share.
Who is entitled to apply for Canadian citizenship?
You can apply for Canadian citizenship if you:
- Are at least 18 years of age;
- Have been a legal permanent resident in Canada for
three out of the previous four years;
- Can communicate in English or French; and
- Have knowledge of Canada, including the rights and
responsibilities of citizenship.
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