Canadian Citizenship Lawyer in Vancouver
Citizenship applications turn on precise physical presence accounting, tax residence misunderstandings, criminal history, and misrepresentation risks tied to prior immigration filings.
Physical presence and residence audits
We reconstruct travel history, passport stamps, and employment abroad to confirm eligibility before submission. Ambiguous periods are addressed with documentary context rather than guesswork.
Prohibitions and criminal history
Some charges or convictions affect eligibility dates or bar citizenship entirely depending on disposition and Canadian equivalencies. Early legal review prevents filing applications destined to fail.
Citizenship tests, interviews, and judicial review
We assist clients who require accommodations, face language evidence issues, or receive procedural fairness letters. Where refusals are unreasonable, timelines for Federal Court review are strict.
Frequently asked questions
General information for Vancouver applicants — not legal advice. Outcomes depend on facts and current IRCC or IRB policy.
How many days must I live in Canada to apply for citizenship?
Adults typically must meet a physical presence threshold in the qualifying period before applying, with limited exceptions. Exact counting rules exclude certain time spent abroad even if you hold permanent resident status.
Does time as a student or worker before PR count?
Physical presence for citizenship generally counts only after you become a permanent resident, subject to narrow exceptions in prescribed circumstances. Temporary residence time does not usually substitute for PR presence.
Can dual citizenship affect my application?
Canada permits dual citizenship for Canadians in many cases, but your other nationality's laws may affect travel documents or military obligations. Immigration advice should be coordinated with any foreign law questions you verify independently.
What if IRCC says my application has residence concerns?
Applicants may receive requests for additional evidence of residence. Responses should be precise and documented; inconsistent explanations can trigger deeper review or allegations of misrepresentation.
Ready to discuss your file?
Share your timeline and goals on our consultation page — we will outline practical next steps for your immigration strategy in BC.
Immigration consultation — Vancouver