Most individuals applying for Canadian citizenship will now complete a self-administered online citizenship test as the standard format, according to new instructions issued by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
The updated guidance was published on March 9, 2026, outlining several changes to how citizenship tests are conducted, including a longer testing time and more attempts for applicants.
Online Test Becomes the Standard Format
Before 2020, Canadian citizenship tests were primarily conducted in person, where applicants had 30 minutes to complete a written exam. However, during the COVID-19 pandemic, IRCC introduced online self-administered testing, which has now become the default option.
The online test consists of 20 questions and applicants must answer at least 15 correctly to pass.
Each test is randomly generated from a pool of 300 to 400 questions, ensuring a balanced mix of topics and difficulty levels.
Three Attempts Now Allowed
Under the previous system, applicants were allowed two attempts at the citizenship test. If they failed the second attempt, they were referred to a knowledge or language hearing.
Under the updated instructions, applicants can now take the test up to three times. A knowledge hearing will only be scheduled if an applicant fails the third attempt or if an officer believes the applicant does not meet the required language standards.
45 Minutes to Complete the Test
IRCC has also standardized the time allowed for the online citizenship test.
Applicants now have 45 minutes to complete the exam, compared with the 30 minutes previously provided for in-person written tests.
Applicants who require accommodations can also request additional time if needed.
Other Testing Options Still Available
Although the online test is now the default, the updated instructions confirm that citizenship tests may still be conducted through:
- In-person testing, or
- Microsoft Teams-based testing
These formats may be used in cases involving technical difficulties, identity verification concerns, accommodation needs or officer discretion.
Both formats allow one attempt per session and if an applicant fails, another session will need to be scheduled.
Test Results Subject to Verification
Applicants taking the online test receive a temporary score immediately after completing the exam. However, the result is not considered final until IRCC completes identity verification and proctoring review.
If any irregularities are identified, applicants may be asked to retake the test or attend an interview.
Citizenship Officers May Review Other Requirements
The new guidelines also clarify that citizenship officers may review other eligibility requirements during hearings, even if those issues were not initially scheduled for discussion.
If an officer determines that an applicant does not meet a required condition, the application may be refused without assessing additional criteria.
Basic Citizenship Test Rules Remain the Same
Despite the new procedures, the core structure of the Canadian citizenship test remains unchanged:
- The test includes 20 questions.
- Applicants must score 15 correct answers to pass.
- Cheating or misrepresentation during the test or hearing can result in the test being stopped and may affect the application.
Who Must Take the Citizenship Test?
The test is required for most permanent residents applying for Canadian citizenship between the ages of 18 and 54.
To qualify for citizenship, applicants must first meet several requirements, including:
- Holding permanent resident status in Canada
- Living in Canada for at least 1,095 days within the past five years
- Demonstrating proficiency in English or French
- Filing Canadian income taxes, if required
Applicants younger than 18 or older than 54 are generally exempt from the test.
Final Step: The Oath of Citizenship
After successfully passing the test and meeting all eligibility requirements, applicants aged 14 or older are invited to take the Oath of Citizenship, the final step in becoming a Canadian citizen.
Once the oath is taken, the individual receives a citizenship certificate, which can be used to apply for a Canadian passport.
Dual Citizenship Rules
Canada allows dual citizenship, meaning individuals can hold Canadian citizenship while maintaining other nationalities.
However, the ability to retain another citizenship depends on the laws of the applicant’s home country. For example, countries such as the United States, United Kingdom and Australia allow dual citizenship, while others including India, China and Singapore generally do not.
