Those seeking to become a Canadian citizen must first make an application to Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada, similar to applying for permanent residency (IRCC). Applicants who meet the criteria for eligibility will then be requested to sit and pass the citizenship test. To help them obtain a passing grade on the 30-minute test, IRCC will provide a study guide for citizen applicants. There would be no provision for applicants under the age of 18 to take the exam.

Citizen applicants will be expected to present themselves with all appropriate (original paperwork relating to their permanent residency in Canada, immigration papers, photo identification, and passport to be admitted to the exam space. It will not accept photocopies. To be registered, anyone wishing to acquire Canadian citizenship must also comply with the minimum language requirements, and most must also provide:

A transcript or diploma in English or French from post-secondary studies. Results of language testing from an accredited testing agency. For the Canadian Standard Benchmark 4 or higher, proof of achievement.

Some applicants may also be asked before a citizenship judge to undergo an interview. Citizenship applicants who successfully fulfill the eligibility criteria and pass all exams (and if requested interviews) are expected to attend a citizenship ceremony where they will receive their Canadian citizenship certificate and become official citizens of Canada.