Canadian Citizenship Age Requirements Explained
Citizenship age requirements: no minimum age, the test and language for ages 18 to 54, and the exemption for under 18 and 55 and older.
There is no minimum age to become a Canadian citizen, and a parent can apply for a minor child. The citizenship test and the language requirement apply only to applicants aged 18 to 54; younger applicants and those 55 and older are exempt, while still meeting the other conditions. This page sums it up; the official source is always canada.ca.
Is there a minimum age?
No. The law sets no lower age limit for a grant of citizenship. An infant or a teenager can become a citizen, as long as the other applicable conditions are met (notably permanent resident status). For a child, a parent or guardian signs and submits the application on their behalf.
Who must take the test and prove language
The knowledge test and the language proof target a single age band: applicants aged 18 to 54 at the time they apply. These applicants must pass the citizenship test and show CLB 4 speaking ability. To go deeper, see the CLB 4 language requirement and our guide on citizenship eligibility.
Under 18 and 55 and older
Two groups are exempt from the test and the language proof:
- Applicants under 18, whose application is submitted by a parent.
- Applicants 55 and older at the time they apply.
- Both groups must still be permanent residents in good standing.
- They must also meet the physical presence and, where it applies, the tax filing conditions.
If you are 55 or older, our article on citizenship over 55 sets out your simpler path.
The other conditions still apply
The age exemption touches only the test and language. Every applicant, at any age, must hold permanent resident status in good standing, meet physical presence, and meet tax obligations where they apply. The test itself is the best thing to prepare in advance when it applies to you: start a free mock exam to practise.
Frequently asked questions
Is there a minimum age to become a citizen? No. There is no minimum age. A parent can apply on behalf of their minor child.
At what age are the test and language required? The citizenship test and language proof apply only to applicants aged 18 to 54 at the time they apply.
Do people 55 and older have to take the test? No. People 55 and older, like those under 18, are exempt from the test and language proof, but must still meet the other conditions.