Is Canadian citizenship really worth it if you’re already a permanent resident? Many immigrants ask this question. Is it just a passport—or a life upgrade? Thanks to new data from Statistics Canada, we now have clear answers based on long-term trends.
Top Benefits of Becoming a Canadian Citizen
- Naturalized immigrants stay longer: 93% remain active in Canada after 10 years.
- Fewer leave after naturalizing: Just a 2% drop in activity vs. 3% for PRs.
- Citizenship brings security, rights, and peace of mind... for life.
- Citizenship rates vary by origin: Some groups apply faster than others.
Citizenship vs PR: What Statistics Canada Data Reveals
A 2025 study by Statistics Canada found that immigrants who become Canadian citizens are significantly more likely to maintain strong ties to Canada. Ten years after arrival, 93% of citizens were still “active”—filing taxes, working, or residing in the country.
Among immigrants who stayed permanent residents, only 67% remained active after the same period. The study tracked newcomers from 1990 to 2010 and measured "active presence" through tax records and address data.
The takeaway? Citizenship is closely tied to long-term integration.
Do Immigrants Leave After Getting Canadian Citizenship?
There’s a common belief that some immigrants apply for citizenship, then leave Canada permanently. But the data doesn’t support it.
Among those who became citizens, only 2% became inactive in the year following naturalization. In contrast, permanent residents showed an annual drop in active presence of about 3 percentage points.
In short: Canadian citizens tend to stay. The idea of “citizens of convenience” is more myth than fact.
What You Gain by Switching from PR to Canadian Citizenship
Permanent residency offers many rights—but some key protections and privileges are reserved for citizens. Here’s how the two statuses compare:
| Benefit | Permanent Resident | Canadian Citizen |
| Can vote | ❌ | ✅ |
| Can run for office | ❌ | ✅ |
| Must renew status | ✅ (every 5 years) |
❌ |
| Can lose status after long stay abroad | ✅ | ❌ |
| Can be deported for certain offenses | ✅ | ❌ (rare exceptions) |
| Can apply for a Canadian passport | ❌ | ✅ |
| Can access restricted jobs (e.g., public sector) | ❌ | ✅ |
| Can pass citizenship to children born abroad | ❌ | ✅ |
You also gain peace of mind. No more renewals. No risk of losing status while abroad. Full participation in Canadian society.
How Much Does Canadian Citizenship Cost and What You Need
To become a citizen in 2025, you’ll need:
- 3 years of physical presence in Canada (1,095 days over 5 years)
- $630 CAD application fee
- Basic English or French ability
- Passing the citizenship test (unless exempt)
Processing times are around 12 to 14 months. It’s a one-time effort for a lifetime of benefits.
Why Some Immigrants Delay Applying for Canadian Citizenship
Delaying your citizenship might make sense if:
- You’re working or studying abroad.
- Your country doesn’t allow dual citizenship.
- You need more time to meet residency or language requirements.
- PR cards must be renewed every five years.
- Too much time abroad can lead to status loss.
- PRs are more vulnerable to immigration law changes or removal orders.
Is Canadian Citizenship Worth It?
Yes! If you want security, opportunity, and peace of mind. Citizenship lets you vote, travel freely, apply for government jobs, and pass your status to your children.
And it’s not just symbolic. According to Statistics Canada, over 90% of naturalized immigrants remain active in Canada long after getting their passport.
You avoid renewals, reduce legal uncertainty, and gain a voice in shaping Canada’s future.
Not sure if you're eligible yet? Aïa can check your status and guide you through the next steps. It's free, fast, and built for your journey to Canadian citizenship.
Urgent Questions?
Talk to an Expert Now
Why More U.S. Residents Are Now Choosing to Immigrate to Canada
Tired of visa lotteries and long waits? You're not alone. More and more people—especially skilled, educated workers—are giving up on the U.S. system a …
Missed the Home Care Pilot? 3 PR Paths for Support Workers in Canada
Missed the caregiver pilot deadline? You’re not alone—and you still have options. Canada’s new Home Care Worker Pilots closed within hours of opening. …
Extend Your Manitoba Work Permit: New 2-Year Option for PNPs
Manitoba has introduced a new public policy that allows eligible foreign workers to apply for 2-year open work permits—without needing a Labour Market …