Canadian citizenship by descent applicants often spend weeks gathering documents, but a single oversight can send the whole package back and add months to an already lengthy processing time. As of July 2026, proof‑of‑citizenship applications are taking about 19 months to process, so double‑checking the following seven details before mailing your application can help avoid costly delays.
1. Use documents from the original authority
Supporting records must come directly from the civil registry, vital statistics office, or provincial archive that created or holds the original record. Third‑party printouts—such as those from genealogy subscription services—are not sufficient on their own. If a required record no longer exists, include a written explanation together with evidence of your attempts to obtain it (e.g., archive correspondence or a “no‑record” letter).
2. Submit high‑resolution colour photocopies
IRCC requires clear, colour copies of every supporting document. Black‑and‑white copies are a common cause for returns. Do not send original documents unless the instructions explicitly request them; copies are generally not returned.
3. Provide photos that meet citizenship specifications
Citizenship photos have strict requirements:
- Exact dimensions as specified by IRCC
- Plain white or light background
- Name of the applicant and photographer, plus the date, stamped on the back of the photo
U.S. passport photos, selfies, or AI‑altered images do not meet the criteria.
4. Pay the fee online and include the receipt
The application fee must be paid through IRCC’s online payment portal. After payment, print the receipt and place it in the paper application package. Failure to include the receipt results in an immediate return.
5. Complete every section of the form
Leaving any field blank is treated as an incomplete answer. If a question does not apply, write “N/A” rather than leaving the space empty.
6. Sign and date the form correctly
Sign the form in black ink, as required by form CIT 0001. The date must be within 90 days of IRCC’s receipt of the package and cannot be a future date.
7. Keep copies and use a tracked delivery method
Retain photocopies of the entire application and all supporting documents before mailing. Send the package via a courier or postal service that provides tracking to confirm delivery to IRCC.
Processing time reminder: Proof‑of‑citizenship applications are currently experiencing a 19‑month processing period (July 2026). Ensuring the above details are correct the first time can help prevent additional delays.
This article provides general information only and does not constitute legal advice.
Source article: www.cicnews.com
