Canada Sets 18 as Minimum Age for Adult Citizenship Applications, Outlines Rules for Minors

Canada has set 18 as the minimum age for foreign nationals applying for citizenship through the adult application process, while maintaining separate pathways for children and teenagers below that age.

According to guidelines issued by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), minors can apply for citizenship under two categories, known as Minor 5(2) and Minor 5(1), depending on their family and legal circumstances.

Minor 5(2) Application Pathway

The Minor 5(2) category applies to children who have at least one Canadian parent or whose parent is applying for Canadian citizenship at the same time.

IRCC states that applications under this category must be submitted by the child's biological parent, adoptive parent or legal guardian.

The child must also have permanent resident status in Canada and must not be subject to any citizenship prohibition.

Requirements for Minor 5(1) Applicants

The Minor 5(1) pathway is designed for children who do not have a Canadian parent and whose parent is not applying for citizenship alongside them.

Under this category, a wider range of adults can submit applications on behalf of a child, including individuals with legal custody. The person submitting the application does not necessarily have to be a Canadian citizen.

Where no suitable adult is available to apply on the child's behalf, the minor may submit an application independently.

However, applicants under Minor 5(1) face additional eligibility conditions. In addition to having permanent resident status, they must meet the applicable physical presence requirements in Canada.

Depending on their circumstances, they may also be required to demonstrate that they have filed income tax returns.

Citizenship Oath Requirements for Teenagers

IRCC also provides specific provisions for teenagers aged between 14 and 17. Applicants in this age group whose citizenship applications are approved must take the oath of citizenship at a formal ceremony.

Children below the age of 14 are exempt from taking the oath.

The guidelines clarify that while 18 remains the minimum age for applying through Canada's adult citizenship process, younger applicants can still become citizens through the designated minor pathways.

Families and foreign nationals seeking Canadian citizenship have been advised to review the applicable requirements to determine the appropriate application category.

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