How to Apply for Canadian Citizenship With Dual Intent

Canada remains one of the most desirable destinations for immigrants, international students, and skilled professionals. With its robust economy, multicultural society, and high quality of life, the dream of becoming a Canadian citizen continues to grow. One unique pathway many people take is through dual intent—entering Canada temporarily (as a student, worker, or visitor) while also planning to immigrate permanently.

This article provides a detailed, easy-to-understand, and up-to-date guide on how to apply for Canadian citizenship with dual intent. It covers everything from eligibility, the concept of dual intent, the application process, and practical advice for success especially for students and workers already living in Canada.

Understanding Dual Intent in Canadian Immigration

Dual intent refers to the legitimate desire to enter Canada temporarily while also intending to become a permanent resident (PR) and eventually a citizen. Canadian immigration law acknowledges that this is not only possible but common, especially for students and skilled workers.

According to Canada’s Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (IRPA), having an intention to become a permanent resident does not disqualify an individual from being a temporary resident, provided they meet the conditions of their current visa or permit. This legal principle protects applicants who have long-term plans but are still complying with short-term obligations.

Dual Intent Examples

• An international student studying in Canada while planning to apply for PR under the Canadian Experience Class (CEC).

• A temporary foreign worker on a work permit who wants to apply for permanent residence through Express Entry.

• A visitor or tourist applying for a spousal sponsorship from within Canada.

Understanding and demonstrating dual intent correctly can significantly improve your chances of achieving permanent residency and later, citizenship.

Canadian Citizenship: The End Goal of Immigration

Before applying for citizenship, an individual must first become a permanent resident of Canada. Once that status is achieved, they must meet several requirements before being eligible for citizenship.

Who Is Eligible for Canadian Citizenship?

As of 2025, to be eligible for Canadian citizenship, a person must:

• Be a permanent resident (PR) of Canada.

• Have been physically present in Canada for at least 1,095 days (three years) during the last five years before applying.

• Have filed Canadian income taxes for at least three of the last five years.

• Demonstrate adequate knowledge of English or French (if aged 18 to 54).

• Pass a citizenship test on Canadian history, geography, law, and responsibilities (also for applicants aged 18 to 54).

• Not have any criminal prohibitions or outstanding immigration issues.

Temporary Residents With Future Citizenship Goals

Temporary residents often arrive in Canada as students, skilled workers, or visitors. These individuals may intend to transition to permanent residency and, ultimately, citizenship. The key to maintaining legal compliance during this journey is to follow immigration rules carefully at each step.

Common Pathways from Temporary Status to Citizenship

1. International Student Pathway

   • Obtain a study permit.

   • Graduate and apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP).

   • Gain Canadian work experience.

   • Apply for PR through the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) under Express Entry.

   • Apply for citizenship after meeting PR and residency requirements.

2. Skilled Worker Pathway

   • Arrive with a work permit (e.g., through Global Talent Stream or LMIA).

   • Work in a qualifying job for at least one year.

   • Apply for PR through Federal Skilled Worker or CEC.

   • Apply for citizenship.

3. Family Sponsorship

   • Arrive as a visitor or spouse of a Canadian citizen/permanent resident.

   • Get sponsored and obtain PR.

   • Apply for citizenship later.

These pathways demonstrate how temporary residents can legally build toward citizenship.

Applying for Canadian Citizenship: Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Meet Eligibility Criteria

Ensure you meet the physical presence, language, tax filing, and PR requirements. You can use IRCC’s Physical Presence Calculator to determine if you qualify based on time spent in Canada.

Step 2: Gather Required Documents

You’ll need the following documents:

• A copy of your Permanent Resident Card or Confirmation of PR.

• Travel documents (passports, entry stamps).

• Language proof (e.g., test results or educational documents).

• Your tax records (from Canada Revenue Agency).

• Any immigration correspondence relevant to your status.

If you spent time as a temporary resident, you may count up to 365 days of that period at 50% value (i.e., two days count as one) toward your physical presence requirement.

Step 3: Complete the Application

Use the official citizenship application form (CIT 0002) available on the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website. As of 2025, most applicants can complete the application online.

Step 4: Pay the Fees

• Adult (18 and older): $630 CAD

• Minor (under 18): $100 CAD

You’ll pay these fees through your IRCC account.

Step 5: Submit and Wait for Processing

Once submitted, IRCC will send you an Acknowledgement of Receipt (AOR). The process includes:

• Language proof verification (for 18–54 age group).

• Citizenship test invitation (if required).

• Interview or hearing (if needed).

• Final decision.

• Invitation to the citizenship oath ceremony.

Processing times vary but typically take 12 months. Stay updated by checking your application status through your IRCC account.

Demonstrating Dual Intent Effectively

Dual intent is legal but must be credible. Immigration officers will assess whether a person genuinely intends to comply with their temporary visa conditions while working toward permanent goals.

Tips to Strengthen Your Case

• Be honest about your long-term goals.

• Continue to respect your current visa or permit conditions.

• Provide evidence of your ties to your home country (for temporary applications).

• Include a letter of explanation outlining your intent to follow all rules while pursuing PR.

• Avoid applying for temporary visas that conflict with your PR goals unless necessary.

Demonstrating that your intent is to stay temporarily, but apply permanently through legal means, can protect your application from being denied due to “immigration risk.”

Common Misconceptions About Dual Intent

Myth 1: You Can’t Apply for a Study or Work Permit If You Want PR

False. As long as you meet all requirements and clearly intend to leave if PR is denied, dual intent is acceptable.

Myth 2: Having Dual Intent Will Automatically Lead to Rejection

Also false. Officers are trained to assess your intent based on your behavior and documentation, not just your aspirations.

Myth 3: Once You Get PR, You Can Immediately Apply for Citizenship

Incorrect. You need to meet physical presence, tax filing, and language requirements first. This typically takes at least three years of residency.

Key Challenges and How to Overcome Them

Proving Residency Days

Always keep records of travel history, work or school attendance, and entry/exit dates. Without proof, your days in Canada may not count.

Language Barriers

Language tests such as IELTS (English) or TEF (French) may be required. Consider government-funded language programs if you need support.

Tax Filing Issues

Ensure your taxes are filed correctly for each eligible year. Mismatches in reported income may delay your application.

The Citizenship Test

The Canadian citizenship test is a 20-question multiple-choice test covering:

• History

• Geography

• Canadian government and law

• Rights and responsibilities

You must answer at least 15 questions correctly to pass. The test is based on the official “Discover Canada” study guide. If you fail, you’ll be given a second chance or may attend an interview.

Oath Ceremony: The Final Step

Once approved, you’ll be invited to attend a citizenship ceremony. You must:

• Swear or affirm your Oath of Citizenship

• Receive your citizenship certificate

• Begin using your new rights, including applying for a Canadian passport

Congratulations! You’re now officially a Canadian citizen.

Dual Citizenship in Canada

Canada permits dual or multiple citizenships. That means you don’t have to give up your original citizenship unless your home country requires it.

Benefits of Dual Citizenship

• Access to two passports

• Travel flexibility

• Full rights in both countries

• Ability to live, work, vote, and run for office in Canada

Obligations

• Pay taxes in both countries (if applicable)

• Follow the laws of both countries

• Report foreign income if required

Real-Life Example

Consider a student from Kenya who comes to Canada for a 4-year degree program. While studying, she builds a strong record, gains Canadian work experience, and applies for PR through the Express Entry system. After three years as a PR, she files for citizenship, passes the test, and becomes a Canadian citizen—all while maintaining ties to her Kenyan heritage and passport.

This example illustrates the journey of many successful immigrants who began with dual intent and stayed compliant every step of the way.

Conclusion

Dual intent is not a loophole—it is a legal and strategic pathway to Canadian citizenship. With proper planning, honest communication, and compliance with immigration rules, thousands of temporary residents become permanent residents and eventually citizens every year.

To recap:

• Dual intent is recognized and accepted in Canadian immigration.

• Applicants must follow all visa/permit conditions while in temporary status.

• Becoming a permanent resident is the first major step.

• Canadian citizenship requires residency, language, tax filing, and a successful application.

• Dual citizens enjoy the full rights of Canadians without giving up their original nationality (if permitted).

Whether you’re a student, worker, or visitor, the path to Canadian citizenship is clear just follow each step carefully and keep your long-term goals in sight.