Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has clarified the current procedure for taking the citizenship test. According to official instructions, most applicants are now invited to take the online test, which must be completed within the 30-day period specified in the invitation.
How the online test works
The online Canadian citizenship test consists of 20 multiple-choice or true/false questions. You have 45 minutes to complete it, and to pass, you must answer at least 15 out of 20 questions correctly. Applicants are also given up to three attempts to take the test within the allotted time.
What exactly has changed
According to IRCC, these changes were part of broader efforts to improve the accessibility of the citizenship application process. In its 2024 Accessibility Report, the agency explicitly stated that the new measures include extending the test duration from 30 to 45 minutes, increasing the number of attempts from two to three, and providing a 30-day window to take the test.
Who must take the test
In most cases, applicants must be between the ages of 18 and 54 on the date the application is signed. If a person requires special accommodations, IRCC can arrange an alternative format—a test in an office or via Microsoft Teams.
Can the test be taken outside of Canada
Another important detail: the online test can be taken not only in Canada. The official IRCC website states that it can be taken from anywhere, provided the applicant has received an invitation, has a compatible device with a webcam, and meets the technical requirements. During the test, the system takes random photos via the webcam to verify the applicant’s identity and ensure they are taking the test alone. If technical issues arise or there are signs of rule violations, the test may be invalidated, and the applicant may be asked to retake it.
What happens if you fail the test
If an applicant fails the test after three attempts, they are invited to a hearing with a citizenship officer. During this hearing, the officer may ask oral questions about knowledge of Canada and assess other criteria, including language skills. For the language portion, the officer may ask up to 9 questions, and you must answer at least 6 correctly.
How language proficiency is assessed
IRCC also emphasizes that the test itself does not assess knowledge of English or French. Language skills are assessed separately—based on documents submitted with the application and, if necessary, during communication with the officer. The language requirement also applies to applicants aged 18–54.
Conclusion
Thus, the main change for most future Canadian citizens is that the process has become more digital and flexible: the online format is now the primary one, the time allotted for the test has been extended, the number of attempts has increased, and the test can be taken over a wider timeframe. All of this is intended to simplify the process for applicants, but at the same time, IRCC maintains strict rules regarding identification, taking the test independently, and meeting technical requirements.