Citizenship Prohibitions in Canada: What They Are and How You Can Still Become a Citizen

A “prohibition” means IRCC is not allowed to grant you Canadian citizenship (or let you take the oath) while certain legal situations apply. These rules are set out in the Citizenship Act and summarized by IRCC.

If you have a prohibition, it does not always mean you can never become a citizen—but it usually means you must resolve the issue first and apply at the right time.

Common prohibitions that can block citizenship

You may be prohibited from citizenship if, for example:

• You are serving a term of imprisonment, on parole, or on probation in Canada.
• You are charged with, on trial for, or have an ongoing appeal for certain offences (including indictable offences).
• You are under a removal order (or you need an Authorization to Return to Canada and do not have it).
• You are being investigated for, charged with, on trial for, appealing, or convicted of war crimes or crimes against humanity.
• You had a citizenship application refused for misrepresentation within the last 5 years, or your citizenship was revoked for fraud within the last 10 years.
• You were convicted of certain offences within the relevant prohibition period described in the Citizenship Act.

How someone with a prohibition can still become a citizen

Most successful cases follow the same pathway:

1. Confirm your eligibility basics first (PR status, physical presence, taxes).
   Even if you are not prohibited, you still must meet the regular requirements to apply for citizenship.
2. Identify the exact prohibition that applies (charge, probation, removal order, misrepresentation, conviction timing).
   IRCC’s prohibition list is a practical starting point, but the Citizenship Act contains the legal test.
3. Resolve the issue and document it clearly
• If it is criminal-related: the prohibition often lasts until the matter is concluded and/or sentence conditions (including probation) are completed.
• If it is a removal-order/return issue: the prohibition remains until your status is resolved and any required authorization is obtained.
• If it is misrepresentation: the Citizenship Act contains specific restrictions tied to misrepresentation and timing.
4. Apply only when the prohibition no longer applies
   Applying too early can lead to refusal, delays, or complications. IRCC can also request evidence (court records, proof of sentence completion, status documents).

Why legal advice is strongly recommended

Citizenship prohibitions are technical and fact-specific. Small timing issues—like an unresolved charge, an appeal still open, or probation not fully completed—can derail an application. The safest approach is to have a well-versed lawyer review your situation and confirm the correct timing and evidence before filing.

A&M Canadian Immigration Law Corporation assists clients in Winnipeg and across Canada with citizenship eligibility assessments, prohibition issues, and complete application preparation.