Canada is known around the world for its humanitarian spirit and inclusive immigration policies. Among those who find safety and a fresh start here are refugees, individuals who were forced to flee their home countries due to war, persecution, or violence. But what happens after they arrive? What does the road to Canadian citizenship look like for refugees?
This blog post explains the pathway to Canadian citizenship for refugees—how it’s similar to other immigration streams, what unique supports are available, and what to expect as you move from refugee to permanent resident to proud Canadian citizen.
Who Is Considered a Refugee in Canada?
Canada accepts two main types of refugees:
- Resettled Refugees
These are individuals selected overseas and brought to Canada through the Government-Assisted Refugee (GAR) program, the Private Sponsorship of Refugees (PSR) program, or the Blended Visa Office-Referred (BVOR) program.
- Refugee Claimants (Asylum Seekers)
These individuals ask for protection after arriving in Canada or at a border. If their claim is accepted by the Immigration and Refugee Board (IRB), they are given protected person status, which allows them to stay in Canada and eventually apply for permanent residence.
The Journey: Refugee to Canadian Citizen
Let’s break it down step by step.
Step 1: Becoming a Protected Person
If your refugee claim is approved by the IRB or if you are resettled through a refugee program, you are granted protected person status.
This means you have legal protection in Canada and cannot be returned to your country of origin, as doing so would place you at risk.
Step 2: Applying for Permanent Residence (PR)
Protected persons can apply for permanent residence under the Refugee Class. Once approved, you’ll receive a Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR) and, eventually, your PR card.
This process can take several months to over a year, depending on the complexity of your case and processing times. Once you become a permanent resident, you’ll start working toward eligibility for citizenship.
Step 3: Meeting the Requirements for Canadian Citizenship
To apply for citizenship in Canada (as of 2025), you must meet the following requirements:
- Be a Permanent Resident
You must hold valid PR status in Canada and have no unfulfilled conditions attached to it.
- Physical Presence in Canada
You must have been physically present in Canada for at least 1,095 days (3 years) in the past 5 years before applying.
- Special Note for Refugees:
Time spent in Canada as a protected person (before becoming a PR) can count toward this requirement. Each day spent as a protected person (after your claim is accepted or after arrival through a resettlement program) counts as half a day, up to a maximum of 365 days.
So, for example:
If you spent 2 years in Canada before getting PR, that could count as 1 year toward your 3-year physical presence requirement.
- Language Proficiency
You must demonstrate adequate knowledge of English or French (CLB level 4 or higher) if you’re between 18 and 54 years old.
- Pass the Citizenship Test
Applicants between 18 and 54 must pass a written test (or oral interview) covering:
Canadian history
Government
Laws and rights
Symbols and responsibilities
- No Serious Criminal Record
Certain criminal offenses can delay or prevent your citizenship application. It’s important to stay in good legal standing throughout your time in Canada.
Unique Supports for Refugees on the Citizenship Journey
Canada recognizes that refugees face unique barriers—emotional, financial, and logistical. Here are a few special supports in place:
- Settlement Services
Government-funded organizations like YMCA, COSTI, MOSAIC, and local newcomer centers offer:
Citizenship classes and test preparation
Language training (LINC programs)
Help with forms and applications
Free legal clinics for refugees
- Waivers for Fees (in Some Cases)
As of now, adult citizenship applicants must pay a $630 fee, while minors pay $100. However, the government has considered waiving or reducing these fees for low-income applicants, including refugees.
- Trauma-Informed Support
Many refugees arrive after experiencing deep trauma. Mental health organizations across Canada offer free counseling, settlement therapy, and support groups, often in multiple languages.
Tips for a Smooth Citizenship Process as a Refugee
Here’s how to prepare for your citizenship journey:
- Keep Track of Your Days
Track your time in Canada accurately, including the half-day rule for protected persons.
- Organize Your Documents
Keep all your immigration documents, PR card, refugee claim documents, and any proof of residence (bills, lease agreements, tax returns) in one folder.
- Work on Your Language Skills
Even if you speak English or French, taking a free LINC class can help you pass the language test and build confidence in Canadian life.
- File Your Taxes
Make sure you’ve filed taxes for at least 3 years in the past 5 before applying, as required.
Life After Citizenship: What It Means for Refugees
Becoming a Canadian citizen is more than a legal milestone—it’s a moment of deep pride and emotional closure for many refugees.
As a Canadian citizen, you gain:
- The right to vote
- The ability to travel with a Canadian passport
- Protection from deportation
- The right to run for office
- Access to more jobs and full civic participation
- Most importantly, it gives you permanence and belonging—a sense that Canada is truly your home.
Final Thoughts
For refugees, the path to Canadian citizenship may be longer or more complicated—but it is absolutely within reach. Canada offers one of the most supportive and accessible citizenship processes for refugees anywhere in the world.
If you or someone you know is on this journey, take heart. There are tools, services, and communities ready to support you at every stage. Becoming a Canadian citizen is not just about a passport—it’s about turning survival into thriving, and finding a place to truly belong. Get in touch with Citizenship Lawyer to learn more!
However, it’s important to be aware that citizenship can still be revoked in rare but serious cases involving fraud or misrepresentation during the immigration process. To understand your rights and responsibilities—and avoid unintended mistakes—check out our in-depth guide:
Revoking Citizenship: Understanding Canada’s Policies on Fraud and Misrepresentation
