Tracking the Status of Your Canadian Citizenship Application

Applying for Canadian Citizenship is an important step in the right direction. It is expected that you will want to be able to track your application process. Well, you’re in for luck! The Canadian government provides several tools that will help you monitor your application status. In this article, we will show you these tools as well as the steps that can help you effectively track your Canadian citizenship application. 

Let’s start by understanding the Canadian citizenship application process. 

Understanding the Application Process

It is important to be sure you’re on track with the application process:

Submission

This is the first step in your citizenship journey. It involves completing the Canadian citizenship application package and sending it to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).

What is involved?

• Ensuring you meet all eligibility criteria (e.g., residency requirements, language proficiency, and tax filings).
• Filling out the correct application form based on your situation (adult or minor applicant).
• Paying the necessary application fees.
• Gathering and submitting required documents.
• Sending your application online or via mail (depending on eligibility).

Once submitted, IRCC will review the application for completeness before acknowledging receipt.

Acknowledgment of Receipt (AOR)

The AOR is an official confirmation from IRCC that they have received your application and that it is complete.

What happens at this stage?

• IRCC assigns your application a Unique Client Identifier (UCI) and an application number.
• You receive an email or letter from IRCC with the AOR.
• Your application moves into the processing queue.

Keep these in mind:

• Receiving an AOR does not mean your application is approved; it just means IRCC has started reviewing it.
• If your application is incomplete, IRCC will return it to you, and you’ll have to correct the mistakes before resubmitting.

In Progress

This stage means IRCC has started actively processing your application.

What happens at this stage?

• IRCC verifies your eligibility for citizenship.
• They check your residency history to ensure you have lived in Canada for the required time.
• They review your language proficiency (if required).
• A background check is conducted to ensure you don’t have any criminal records that would make you ineligible.
• You may receive a citizenship test invitation (if you’re between 18 and 54 years old).
• If needed, you could be called for an interview with a citizenship official to clarify details.

Decision Made

At this point, IRCC has reached a final decision on your application.

Possible Outcomes:

• Approved: You’ll receive a notice to attend the citizenship ceremony.
• Refused: If your application is denied, IRCC will provide reasons, and you may have the option to request a review or reapply.
• Request for Additional Information: Sometimes, IRCC might request further documentation before making a final decision.

Oath Ceremony

If your application is approved, the final step is taking the Oath of Citizenship, officially making you a Canadian citizen.

What to Expect:

• You’ll receive an invitation letter with the date, time, and location of the ceremony.
• The ceremony may be held in person or online.
• You must bring your permanent resident (PR) card, even if it is expired.
• Swear or affirm the Oath of Citizenship.
• Receive your Citizenship Certificate.
• Officially become a Canadian citizen! 

After the ceremony, you can apply for a Canadian passport and enjoy the full rights of Canadian citizenship.

When Can You Check Your Application Status?

You can start checking your application status after receiving the AOR from IRCC. This acknowledgment confirms that your application is complete and has entered the processing queue. 

Methods to Track Your Application

Online Application Status Tracker

The IRCC offers an online tool that provides real-time updates on your application’s status. This online tool is also known as the Client Application Status (CAS) tool. This CAS tool allows you to securely view the status of your application online and it is provided by the Government of Canada. To use this tracker:

• Register an Account: Create a new account on the IRCC Application Status Tracker if it’s your first time checking your status. Note that previous usernames and passwords from the Client Application Status (CAS) tool cannot be reused.
• Information Needed:
  • Unique Client Identifier (UCI) or Client ID
  • Application number
  • First and last name
  • Date and place of birth
• Accessing Updates: Once logged in, you’ll receive detailed application statuses, alerts, and messages about your application by email and online instead of by mail.

Note: Status updates will only appear after you receive the AOR. 

How to track your application status using the CAS tool:

• If you applied online, you could check your application status in your IRCC secure account.
• Click on “Check your application status”
• Select your application type and click on “Continue”
• Sign in to your account to check your application status.
• Under “View my submitted applications or profiles,” click on “Check status and messages.” 

Your application status will tell you where IRCC is with processing your application, including when a decision is made. 

Contacting IRCC Directly

If online tools don’t provide the information you need, you can contact IRCC directly:

• Phone: Call the IRCC call center for updates: 1-888-242-2100 (for people within Canada). Have your application number and personal details ready.
• Email: Send an inquiry with your full name, date of birth, and application number.

Make sure to reach out during working hours; Monday to Friday, 8am to 4pm local time.

Understanding Status Updates

As you monitor your Canadian citizenship application, you will notice different status updates reflecting the progress of your case. Each status has a specific meaning, and understanding them will help you know where you stand and what to expect next. Some of the most common status updates include:

1. Received

This means that IRCC has officially received your application but has not yet started reviewing it.

What happens at this stage?

• IRCC acknowledges that they have received your application.
• A basic completeness check is conducted to ensure that all required documents and forms are included.
• If everything is in order, you will receive an Acknowledgment of Receipt (AOR), which contains your Unique Client Identifier (UCI) and application number.
• If your application is incomplete, IRCC will return it to you, outlining the missing information, and you will need to resubmit it.

This process typically takes a few weeks to a few months, depending on IRCC’s processing times.

2. In Progress

This status means that IRCC has started actively processing your application.

What happens at this stage?

• IRCC officers begin verifying your eligibility for Canadian citizenship.
• They check your residency history to ensure you have been in Canada for the required time.
• They will check your language proficiency if you are required to demonstrate it.
• They will check your background and security records to ensure you have no disqualifying criminal history.
• If applicable, you will receive an invitation for the citizenship test (for applicants aged 18-54).
• You will also recieve a request to attend an interview with a citizenship official (if needed).

How long does it stay in this status?

• It depends on case complexity, IRCC workload, and whether additional reviews are required. Some cases move quickly, while others may take several months.

3. Decision Made

This status means that IRCC has completed processing your application and reached a final decision. Your application will either be approved or refused.

 If it is approved:

• You will receive an invitation for the Oath of Citizenship ceremony, which is the final step in becoming a Canadian citizen.

 If it is refused:

• If your application is denied, IRCC will send you a detailed letter explaining why.
• If your application is refused, you may have the option to request a reconsideration (if you believe an error was made).
• You can also reapply in the future if you become eligible.

 Additional Information Required:

• If IRCC needs more details before making a final decision, they may request additional documents or clarification.

How long does it stay in this status?

• Once a decision is made, the next step (Oath of Citizenship or refusal letter) usually follows within a few weeks.

4. Closed

A closed application means IRCC has stopped processing your file.

Possible reasons why an application is closed:

• If you successfully take the Oath of Citizenship, your application is closed because you are now officially a Canadian citizen. 
• If you decide to withdraw your application, IRCC will close the file.
• If you fail to meet important requirements (e.g., missing the citizenship test, interview, or document deadlines), IRCC may abandon your application and close it.
• If your application was denied and you do not appeal or reapply, IRCC will close the case permanently.

Can you reopen a closed application?

• If your application was closed in error, you may request a reconsideration by contacting IRCC.
• If you are eligible, you may need to reapply with a new application.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How long does it take to process a Canadian citizenship application?

Processing times can vary based on individual circumstances and the volume of applications. It’s best to check the IRCC website for the most current processing times.

2. Can I check my application status without an AOR?

No, you need the AOR, which contains your application number, to access online status trackers.

3. What should I do if I haven’t received my AOR?

If it’s been several weeks since you submitted your application and you haven’t received an AOR, consider contacting IRCC to inquire about your application’s status.

4. Can I use the same account credentials from the old CAS tool for the new Application Status Tracker?

No, you must create a new account for the Application Status Tracker, even if you previously used the CAS tool. 

5. How often is the Application Status Tracker updated?

The tracker is updated daily, providing real-time information on your application’s progress. 

6. What does ‘In Progress’ mean on my application status?

‘In Progress’ indicates that IRCC is actively reviewing your application. 

7. How will I be notified of the final decision?

IRCC will notify you of the final decision through your online account or by mail, depending on your communication preferences.

8. Can I update my application after submission?

Yes, if you need to update your application (e.g., change of address), you can do so through your IRCC secure account or by contacting IRCC directly.

Conclusion

It is important that you stay informed about your Canadian citizenship application’s status as it will enable you to have a smooth process. Use the tools and steps in this article to monitor your application’s progress and stay prepared for each step toward becoming a Canadian citizen. Remember to keep your application information handy and regularly check for updates to ensure you’re always in the know.