Applying for Canadian citizenship is a major milestone for every Permanent Resident. However, even small mistakes can cause long delays in processing times, or worse, application refusals. With over 47,000 citizenship applications pending as of early 2025, understanding why delays happen and how to avoid them is crucial.
In this guide, we’ll break down the top 3 reasons why Canadian citizenship applications get delayed, along with practical tips to ensure a smooth and timely process. Plus, discover how ICC Immigration can help you achieve your dream of becoming a Canadian citizen without unnecessary stress.
✅ Why Do Canadian Citizenship Applications Get Delayed?
The IRCC (Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada) follows strict eligibility and documentation rules for citizenship applications. While standard applications take around 8 months, non-routine cases can take much longer. The most common causes of delays include:
1. Incomplete or Missing Documentation
Submitting an application without the required documents is the leading reason for processing delays. IRCC may request additional evidence, which adds weeks or even months to your timeline.
Essential documents for a citizenship application include:
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Application Form (CIT 002)
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Physical Presence Calculation (CIT 0407) showing at least 1,095 days in Canada within the last five years
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Passport and travel history for the last five years
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Proof of Language Proficiency (CLB 4 or higher through IELTS, CELPIP, or TEF)
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Two ID proofs like PR card, driver’s license, or health card
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Two citizenship photos meeting IRCC specifications
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Fee payment receipt
Pro Tip: If your documents are not in English or French, submit certified translations with an affidavit. Missing translations or unclear copies can also delay your application.
2. Missing a Citizenship Test, Interview, or Hearing
Applicants aged 18–54 must pass the citizenship test on Canadian history and values. Missing your test or interview date can result in application abandonment or closure.
How to avoid this mistake:
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Check your email (including spam folders) regularly for IRCC notifications.
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Mark all appointments on your calendar.
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If you can’t attend, inform IRCC immediately using the contact details provided in your notice.
Repeated absences without explanation can close your file, forcing you to reapply and pay the fees again.
3. Criminal or Admissibility Issues
IRCC conducts background checks to ensure applicants have no serious criminal history or security concerns. Convictions for serious crimes or misrepresentation can result in citizenship refusal and up to a 10-year ban.
Steps to handle admissibility issues:
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Be honest in your application—never hide prior visa refusals or criminal charges.
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If you have a past conviction, consider applying for Criminal Rehabilitation before submitting your citizenship application.
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Seek a legal opinion letter from an immigration lawyer to strengthen your case.
Additional Tips to Avoid Delays
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Use the official Physical Presence Calculator on IRCC’s website.
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Submit high-quality color scans of all documents.
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Include extra evidence like tax records or travel logs if your history is complex.
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Respond quickly to IRCC’s additional document requests to keep your file moving.
Your Path to Citizenship Starts with ICC Immigration
At ICC Immigration, we understand how important this step is in your life—and how costly mistakes can be. That’s why we provide expert guidance to make your application accurate, complete, and delay-free.
Here’s how we help you secure your future in Canada:
✅ Permanent Residency & Citizenship Applications
From Express Entry to Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) and citizenship applications, we ensure your file meets IRCC’s strict requirements and is processed smoothly.
✅ Work Permits & Study Permits
We help you explore temporary options that lead to Permanent Residency and eventually citizenship.
✅ Family Sponsorship
Want to bring your loved ones to Canada? We’ll handle all the legalities to make family reunification stress-free.
✅ Expert Legal Advice
Our experienced immigration team ensures your application complies with IRCC regulations, minimizing risks like misrepresentation or refusal.
Instead of taking chances or relying on uncertain asylum claims, choose a stable pathway with professional support.