Citizenship
Citizenship eligibility assessment
Not sure whether you are already Canadian, or what to apply for? An assessment looks at your history and tells you which path fits, before you spend time and money on the wrong application.
Overview
Most citizenship questions start with one of two questions.
Am I already a Canadian citizen? If you may be a citizen through a parent or ancestor, the next step is usually a proof of citizenship application.
Can I become a Canadian citizen? If you are a permanent resident, you may be able to apply for a grant of citizenship once you meet the requirements.
An eligibility assessment answers the right question for you, using your own family history and documents.
Who this may be for
- Anyone who thinks they may be Canadian through a parent or ancestor
- Families who want to know which members may qualify
- Permanent residents planning to apply for citizenship
- People whose earlier application was refused or returned
- People with complicated histories: name changes, adoptions, older records or past citizenship decisions
What we look at
Your birth
Where and when you were born, and who your parents are on your birth record.
Your family line
Places and dates of birth for parents, grandparents and earlier generations, as far as you know them.
Changes in the family
Marriages, adoptions and name changes that affect how records connect.
Past applications
Earlier citizenship applications, certificates, refusals or renunciations.
For permanent residents
Time physically in Canada (generally 1,095 days in the five years before you apply), tax filing, and language and knowledge requirements for applicants aged 18 to 54.
How the process works
Request a consultation
Send us a message or book through our consultation page.
Share what you know
Before the call, send a short summary of your family history and any documents you already have.
Consultation
We meet for 30 minutes by video call and go through your situation together.
Your next step
You leave with a recommended path and a list of documents to prepare.
Decide
If you would like us to represent you, retain us within 30 days and your consultation fee is credited.
What to bring to your assessment
- Your birth certificate and identification
- Any birth, marriage or citizenship records you have for parents and grandparents
- Names, birth dates and birth places of relatives in your family line
- Any letters or decisions from IRCC
- For permanent residents: your PR card or confirmation of permanent residence
- For permanent residents: a list of your trips outside Canada
Bring what you have. Missing records are common, and finding them is part of the work.
How Bonti can help
- An honest assessment, including when no application is possible
- Help with complex matters: past refusals, missing records and older family histories
- Grant of citizenship applications for permanent residents
- A plan for families with several members who may qualify
Common questions
What if I don't qualify?
We will tell you clearly. If another option may work for you, we will explain it.
Can you tell me by email whether I qualify?
Citizenship eligibility depends on details and documents, so we assess it in a consultation instead of by email. This protects you from advice based on incomplete information.
Is the consultation fee credited if I hire you?
Yes. The consultation fee is credited toward our professional fees if you retain Bonti within 30 days.
Next step
Get a clear answer.
Start with a 30-minute consultation. You will leave with a clear next step and a list of documents to prepare.
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