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Canada’s citizenship law is governed federally, meaning the rules are generally consistent across the country, including Windsor, Ontario. Citizenship is a legal status that allows an individual to enjoy full rights and responsibilities as a member of Canadian society. Windsor, being a diverse city on the Canada-United States border, sees many new immigrants and residents navigating the citizenship process. This process can involve naturalization (applying after permanent residency), determining citizenship by descent, renouncing citizenship, or addressing citizenship status for children.
While some citizenship applications are straightforward, many people encounter unique circumstances or complex legal issues that make professional advice essential. Common situations where you may need legal help include:
Canadian citizenship law is governed by the Citizenship Act (RSC 1985, c C-29), which defines who is eligible for citizenship, how it can be gained or lost, and what the requirements are for maintaining it. In Windsor, the following local considerations are relevant:
Generally, you must be a permanent resident, have lived in Canada for at least 1,095 days in the past 5 years, meet language and knowledge requirements, have filed your taxes, and not be under a removal order or have certain criminal convictions.
It depends. Some offenses may prevent you from applying for a period of time, particularly if you are currently serving a sentence or have been convicted of an indictable offence in Canada or an equivalent outside Canada. Legal advice is recommended.
Each day you spent in Canada as a permanent resident or a protected person counts as one day. Some days spent as a temporary resident may also count, but you need to use the online calculator provided by IRCC for accuracy.
Children born in Canada are citizens. Children born outside Canada may acquire citizenship if at least one parent is a Canadian citizen, but you’ll need to apply for a proof of citizenship in most cases. If your children are permanent residents, you may include them in your citizenship application.
The test assesses your knowledge of Canada’s history, values, institutions, and symbols. It’s usually a written test (sometimes oral) covering information from the official study guide “Discover Canada.” Many settlement organizations in Windsor offer preparation classes.
Processing times vary, but most applications take around 12-18 months. Delays can occur due to missing documents, incomplete forms, background checks, or increased demand.
Yes, Canada allows dual (or multiple) citizenships. However, you should check if your country of origin also permits dual citizenship, as some countries do not.
If refused, you have options to challenge the decision by applying for a judicial review at the Federal Court. A lawyer can help you understand the reasons for refusal and your best next steps.
No, your primary consideration is your physical presence in Canada, not specifically Windsor. However, local offices will handle parts of your process, such as your test and interview.
Canadian citizenship can be revoked only in specific cases—such as fraud, misrepresentation, or security concerns—which require a formal process. Otherwise, citizenship is generally permanent unless voluntarily renounced.
Several helpful resources are available for those navigating citizenship matters in Windsor, Canada:
If you need legal assistance with citizenship matters in Windsor, Canada, consider the following course of action:
