Many Benefits of Becoming a Canadian Citizen

Many Benefits of Becoming a Canadian Citizen

Becoming a citizen of Canada can bring benefits to both immigrants and the host country in many ways. Compared to other Western nations, Canada has one of the highest rates of immigrants obtaining citizenship.

Settlement Information – July 1, 2020

Citizenship refers to a person’s legal status. Canadian citizenship can be granted at birth or through a process called “naturalization.”
Immigrants who come to and settle in Canada and meet certain criteria may be eligible to apply for Canadian citizenship through naturalization. Being granted Canadian citizenship is the final step in the immigration journey for many immigrants. It is an important indicator of successful integration and gives immigrants the opportunity to vote, participate in politics, and improve employment prospects.

By becoming Canadian citizens, people gain the right to engage in Canada’s political life. This right can take the form of voting in federal, provincial, and municipal elections. It can also mean running for office or participating in the administration of various levels of government in Canada.

Becoming a Canadian citizen also provides access to certain jobs requiring high-level security clearance, such as federal government positions.

In addition, Canadian law allows dual or multiple citizenships. This means that once a person becomes a Canadian citizen, they do not have to choose between their new nationality and that of their country of origin.

At the same time, children born in Canada to Canadian citizen parents automatically become Canadian citizens without any registration procedure.

Finally, Canadian citizens hold a Canadian passport, which makes it easier to travel to many countries without a visa and simplifies the visa application process when one is required. A passport also reduces the risk of encountering problems when re-entering Canada.

Who Is Eligible for Canadian Citizenship

There are several eligibility criteria an individual must meet to apply for Canadian citizenship:

  • They must have permanent resident status in Canada;
  • They must have lived in Canada for at least three years (or at least 1,095 days) in the past five years before applying;
  • They must be able to speak one or both of Canada’s official languages (English or French) well enough to communicate in Canadian society;
  • They must not have a criminal history that would prohibit the granting of Canadian citizenship; and
  • They must pass a test to prove they are aware of the rights and responsibilities of citizens and have basic knowledge of Canada’s geography, political system, and history.

The government requires applicants to provide documentation supporting these eligibility criteria. One of the most important steps thereafter is to take the citizenship test and attend the citizenship interview, both of which usually take place after the application has been submitted.

The Majority of Eligible Immigrants Become Citizens

Canada recognizes the importance of immigrants and relies significantly on immigration to grow its economy and strengthen its social fabric.
It offers strong settlement services to selected permanent residents to encourage their participation in all aspects of Canadian society, contributing to their success and transition to Canadian citizenship.

At the same time, when comparing naturalized immigrants with non-naturalized permanent residents, studies confirm that citizenship has a positive impact on immigrants’ income and labor market outcomes.

Although the rate of immigrants becoming Canadian citizens varies considerably depending on factors such as time of arrival, education, and income, most eligible immigrants ultimately obtain Canadian citizenship.

If you wish to settle in Canada, please contact us:

EVERGREEN IMMIGRATION CONSULTING

British Columbia – Canada Office
7967 170A Street, Surrey, BC, Canada
Mobile: +1 (604) 445 6648
Email: info@evergreenimmigration.ca

Alberta – Canada Office
115-30 Cornerstone Manor NE, Calgary, AB, Canada
Mobile: +1 (587) 575 5559
Email: info@evergreenimmigration.ca

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