Missing documents are one of the most common reasons an application is returned. This page brings together, in one place, the documents you need at three moments: when you apply, when you take the test, and when you go to the ceremony. It is a planning aid. IRCC’s own document checklist, and the invitations IRCC sends you, are the final word. To check whether you can apply at all, see Am I eligible?.
1. When you apply (adults)
IRCC’s page Adults: forms and documents lists what to include. It also has the official document checklist (CIT 0007). Use that checklist as your master list. In short, every adult needs:
| Document | Notes |
|---|---|
| Application form for adults (CIT 0002) | On paper; online, you answer the same questions in the portal |
| Passports and travel documents | Those you held during your eligibility period: copies of the identity pages and of any pages showing an extension |
| Physical presence calculation | Your count of days in Canada |
| Proof of language skills | Ages 18 to 54 only; see below |
| 2 pieces of personal ID | Copies showing your name, photo and date of birth, for example a PR card, driver’s licence, health card or passport identity page |
| 2 citizenship photos | Identical, in colour, and meeting IRCC’s photo specifications |
| Fee receipt | Proof you paid; see our fees guide for the current amount |
Language proof (ages 18 to 54)
IRCC accepts several kinds of proof that you can speak and listen at CLB 4 or higher in English or French. Examples on IRCC’s list are an approved third-party test (for English: CELPIP-General, CELPIP-General LS, PTE Core or IELTS General Training), proof of secondary or post-secondary education in English or French, or certain government-funded language course certificates. If you send no readable proof, the application is returned. Read more on IRCC’s language proof page.
Only if they apply to you
- Police certificates, if you lived in another country for 183 days or more in a row since age 18, within the last 4 years
- Certified translations of documents that are not in English or French
- Name change documents, such as a marriage certificate or legal name change order
- The Use of a Representative form (IMM 5476), if someone represents you
- Other forms listed on the checklist for special situations
Tip: make one folder (paper or digital) per family member. Put a copy of everything you send in it. You may need originals later.
2. For the online test
Most applicants take the test online. IRCC’s online test page says you need one of these to show on camera:
- your permanent resident card, even if it is expired, or
- a valid piece of ID with your photo and signature, such as a driver’s licence or health card.
Have it on your desk before you start. The rest of the test-day routine is in test day.
If you are invited to an interview after the test, our after the test guide explains what to bring.
3. For the ceremony
IRCC’s what to bring to the ceremony page lists:
- your ceremony invitation
- your PR card (even if expired) or your Confirmation of Permanent Residence (IMM 5292 or IMM 5688)
- two pieces of ID; for adults, at least one must show your photo and signature
- your Record of Landing (IMM 1000), only if you became a permanent resident before June 28, 2002 and still have it
- a signed permission release and consent form, if your invitation includes one
- for a virtual ceremony: your virtual seat number (on the first page of the invitation) and scissors, because you cut up your PR card at the start
You may also bring a holy book for the oath if you wish. To prepare the words, see the Oath of Citizenship.
Rules can change
Document lists change. This page was checked in November 2026. Always download the current checklist from IRCC, and follow your invitations exactly.
Documents ready? Now practise: try practice test 1.
Este guia é um resumo em linguagem simples, não é aconselhamento jurídico. As regras e as taxas podem mudar. Sempre confirme no site oficial do IRCC antes de dar entrada ou pagar.