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Citizenship Test Rules Explained by Canada
The Canadian government has made the online citizenship test the default format for most applicants seeking Canadian citizenship, according to new instructions issued by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
The updated guidelines, published on March 9, 2026, outline several changes to how the citizenship test is administered, including a longer testing time, additional attempts for applicants, and more flexibility in testing formats.
Online Test Now the Standard
Prior to 2020, most Canadian citizenship tests were conducted in person, where applicants completed a written exam within 30 minutes. However, during the COVID-19 pandemic, IRCC introduced an online self-administered test, which has since become widely used.
Under the new instructions, this online test is now the default option for most applicants.
The citizenship test contains 20 questions, and applicants must correctly answer at least 15 questions to pass. Each test is randomly generated from a pool of 300 to 400 questions, covering various topics related to Canadian history, government, values, and rights.
Applicants Now Get Three Attempts
Previously, applicants were allowed two attempts at the citizenship test. If they failed both attempts, they were required to attend a knowledge or language hearing with a citizenship officer.
The updated policy now allows up to three attempts to pass the test. A knowledge hearing will only be scheduled if an applicant fails the third attempt or if an officer believes the applicant may not meet the required language level.
45 Minutes to Complete the Test
IRCC has also extended the testing time for online exams. Applicants are now given 45 minutes to complete the citizenship test, compared with the 30 minutes previously allotted for in-person written tests.
Applicants who require special accommodations can request additional time to complete the exam.
Other Testing Formats Still Available
While the online test is now the primary format, IRCC has confirmed that citizenship tests can still be conducted in other ways when necessary. These include:
- In-person testing, and
- Tests conducted through Microsoft Teams
These formats may be used in situations involving technical issues, identity verification concerns, accommodation needs, or officer discretion.
Each of these testing sessions allows one attempt per event, and if an applicant fails, another session must be scheduled separately.
Online Test Results Are Initially Temporary
Applicants who complete the online citizenship test receive a temporary score immediately after finishing the exam. However, the score is not considered final until IRCC reviews identity verification and proctoring details.
If any irregularities are identified during the review process, applicants may be asked to retake the test or attend an interview.
Officers Can Review Other Citizenship Requirements
The updated instructions also state that citizenship officers may examine other citizenship eligibility requirements during hearings, even if those issues were not part of the original hearing.
If an officer determines that an applicant fails to meet any required condition, the application may be rejected without assessing other criteria.
Basic Test Rules Remain the Same
Despite these updates, the core structure of the citizenship test remains unchanged. The test still includes 20 questions, and applicants must score 15 correct answers to pass.
In addition, cheating or misrepresentation during the test or hearing can result in the test being stopped and may negatively affect the citizenship application.
Eligibility Requirements for Citizenship
The citizenship test is one of the final steps for permanent residents applying for Canadian citizenship.
To qualify for citizenship, applicants must meet several requirements, including:
- Holding permanent resident status in Canada
- Living in Canada for at least 1,095 days within the past five years
- Demonstrating proficiency in English or French
- Filing Canadian income taxes, if required
The citizenship test applies to applicants between the ages of 18 and 54, while younger and older applicants are generally exempt.
Final Step: The Oath of Citizenship
After successfully completing the test and meeting all eligibility requirements, applicants aged 14 or older are invited to take the Oath of Citizenship, which marks the final step in becoming a Canadian citizen.
Once the oath is taken, individuals receive a citizenship certificate, allowing them to apply for a Canadian passport.
Dual Citizenship Rules
Canada allows dual citizenship, meaning individuals can become Canadian citizens without giving up other nationalities. However, whether applicants can retain their original citizenship depends on the laws of their home country.
Countries such as the United States, United Kingdom, and Australia allow dual citizenship, while others including India, China, and Singapore generally do not permit it.