How to Get Canadian Citizenship Faster in Urgent Cases

Current Citizenship Processing Time

At present, permanent residents applying for Canadian citizenship usually have to wait around 13 months. In other words, the process can take more than one year.

However, Some Applications Can Be Processed Faster

That said, some people may qualify for urgent processing. This happens only in special or exceptional situations, where waiting the normal time could cause serious problems.

What Is an “Exceptional Case”?

In simple terms, an exceptional case is when citizenship is urgently needed due to unavoidable reasons. Although IRCC does not have a fixed list, it has shared a few common examples.

Who May Be Eligible for Urgent Processing?

For example, IRCC may consider urgent processing if:

• You need Canadian citizenship to get or keep a job
• There is a family emergency (such as serious illness or death), and you cannot travel using your current passport
• A federal court has ruled in your favor for a past citizenship appeal

Additionally, other situations may also qualify, as long as IRCC feels they truly deserve urgent attention.

Important Things to Keep in Mind

However, even if your case seems exceptional:

• Urgent processing is not guaranteed
• IRCC cannot promise that your application will be completed within your preferred timeline
• If your reason does not meet the urgent criteria, your application will continue under normal processing time

How to Apply for Urgent Processing (Before Applying for Citizenship)

If you have not yet applied and want urgent processing, you must apply by mail. Here’s how:

Step 1: Complete the Application

First, download, print, and fill out the entire citizenship application package carefully.

Step 2: Explain Your Urgent Need

Next, write a clear explanation of why you need urgent processing. Also, attach supporting documents as proof.

Step 3: Prepare the Application Package

Then, place the following in one envelope:

• Citizenship application form (CIT 0002)
• Written explanation
• Supporting documents
• Required documents from the checklist
• Two citizenship photos
• Fee receipt ($649.75 per adult / $100 per minor)

Step 4: Mark the Envelope Clearly

After that, write in large, dark letters on the envelope:
“Request Urgent Processing – Grant of Citizenship”

Step 5: Mail the Application

Finally, mail the envelope to the address mentioned in the instruction guide.

What If You Have Already Applied?

Even if you’ve already submitted your application, you can still request urgent processing.

How to Request Urgent Processing After Applying

To do this, go to IRCC’s online web form and fill in:

• Full name and date of birth
• Email address and phone number
• UCI number or application number

Then, in the section “Tell us about your request”, explain why your situation is exceptional and why urgent processing is needed.

Uploading Supporting Documents

Make sure your documents are:

• In accepted formats: PDF, JPEG, TIFF, DOC, DOCX
• Within size limits:
  • Max 2MB per file
  • Total upload limit: 3.5MB

If needed, IRCC provides guidance on reducing file size.

Final Note

In conclusion, urgent citizenship processing is possible, but only in genuine and well-documented exceptional cases. Therefore, always provide clear reasons and strong proof to improve your chances.

Get in touch with SPS Global

Receive advice on any of your questions regarding Immigration Get in touch with us, experienced immigration consultants from SPS Global. For additional information, contact support@spscanada.com (Canada) or support.amd@spscanada.com (Ahmedabad), or by phone at (1) 905-362-9393 (Canada) or +919586226232 (Ahmedabad).