For permanent residents seeking Canadian citizenship, the processing time can be lengthy, with an average wait of over a year. However, in exceptional cases, individuals may qualify for expedited processing of their citizenship application.

This article explores the criteria for exceptional cases and how to apply for urgent processing of your Canadian citizenship.

Who Qualifies for Urgent Citizenship Application Processing?

In certain exceptional cases identified by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), applicants may have their citizenship grant processed faster than usual. While there is no definitive list, examples of situations that may qualify include needing citizenship for employment, family emergencies, or successful appeals for previous applications.

Considerations

All requests for urgent processing are reviewed carefully, but meeting the exceptional case criteria does not guarantee expedited processing. IRCC also cannot promise processing within a specific timeframe.

How to Apply for Expedited Processing

If you want to request expedited processing for your citizenship application, you must apply by mail before submitting your application. The process involves downloading and completing the application package, providing a detailed explanation for urgent processing, including supporting documentation, and submitting the necessary forms and fees in an envelope clearly marked for expedited processing.