Guide CIT 0009 - Application for Canadian Citizenship for a Person Adopted by a Canadian Citizen - Part 1 - Confirmation of Canadian Citizenship of the Adoptive Parent(s)
Table of Contents
This is not a legal document. For legal information, refer to the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act and Regulations or the Citizenship Act and Regulations, as applicable.
This application is made available free by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) and is not to be sold to applicants.
This publication is available in alternative formats upon request.
Overview
Application package
This application package has:
- an instruction guide, and
- the forms you need to fill out.
The instruction guide:
- has information you must know before you submit your application, and
- explains how to fill out the forms and gather your supporting documents.
Read the instruction guide completely and then fill out each of the applicable forms.
The forms are designed with questions that will help the processing of your application.
Symbols used in this guide
This guide uses these symbols to draw your attention to important information:
Important information that you need to know to avoid delays or other problems.
Where to get more information.
Note: Tips that will help you with this application.
Before you apply
Two-part application process
This application package is the first part of a two-part process.
Part 1 – Confirmation of Canadian Citizenship of the Adoptive Parent(s) is to confirm that at least one adoptive parent is or was a Canadian citizen at the time of the adoption or, for adoptions that took place prior to January 1, 1947, at least one adoptive parent became a Canadian citizen on January 1, 1947 (or April 1, 1949, in the case of Newfoundland and Labrador for adoptions that took place prior to April 1, 1949) and is able to pass on Canadian citizenship to the adopted person.
Part 2 – Adoptee’s Application is to assess the adopted person’s eligibility for a grant of Canadian citizenship pursuant to section 5.1 of the Citizenship Act.
Once Part 1 of the application has been assessed, and if approved, we will communicate with you by mail to tell you when and where to submit Part 2 of the application. Do not send Part 2 of the application until you have received a decision letter from us indicating that Part 1 has been approved.
Note: If you choose to begin gathering the required documents for Part 2 of the application in advance, see Part 2 – Adoptee’s Application.
The adopted person
The adopted person is someone who:
- was or will be adopted;
- is not a Canadian citizen; and
- has at least one adoptive parent who, at the time of their adoption, was or is a Canadian citizen or, for adoptions that took place prior to January 1, 1947, has at least one adoptive parent who became a Canadian citizen on January 1, 1947 (or April 1, 1949, in the case of Newfoundland and Labrador for adoptions that took place prior to April 1, 1949) and is not subject to the first generation limit or is eligible to benefit from one of the exceptions to the first generation limit.
For more information. See: “Amendments to the Citizenship Act limit Canadian citizenship by descent”.
The category of adopted persons includes:
- persons who are minors (under 18 years of age) at the time of application;
- persons who were adopted as minors but are adults (18 years of age or older) at the time of application; and
- persons who were or will be adopted as adults.
Amendments to the Citizenship Act limit Canadian citizenship by descent
On April 17, 2009, the rules for Canadian citizenship changed for persons born outside Canada and who were not already Canadian citizens when the rules changed.
These rules did not take Canadian citizenship away from any person who was a Canadian citizen immediately before the rules came into effect.
Since April 17, 2009, Canadian citizenship by birth outside Canada to a Canadian citizen parent (citizenship by descent) is limited to the first generation born outside Canada.
This means that, in general, persons who were not already Canadian citizens immediately before April 17, 2009 and who were born outside Canada to a Canadian parent are not Canadian if their Canadian parent was also born outside Canada to a Canadian parent or was granted Canadian citizenship under the adoption provisions of the Citizenship Act.
This first generation limit to Canadian citizenship by descent also applies to foreign-born individuals adopted by a person who was a Canadian citizen at the time of the adoption, as well as to those whose adoption took place prior to January 1, 1947 by a person who became a Canadian citizen on January 1, 1947 (or April 1, 1949, in the case of Newfoundland and Labrador for adoptions that took place prior to April 1, 1949). This means that children born outside Canada and adopted by a Canadian citizen are not eligible for a grant of Canadian citizenship under section 5.1, the adoption provisions of the Citizenship Act, if:
- their adoptive Canadian citizen parent was born outside Canada to a Canadian citizen; or
- their adoptive Canadian citizen parent was granted Canadian citizenship under section 5.1, the adoption provisions of the Citizenship Act
unless their adoptive Canadian citizen parent or grandparent was employed as described in one of the following exceptions to the first generation limit.
With regard to adoption, there are two exceptions to the first generation limit:
- at the time of the person’s adoption, either of the person’s adoptive parents was employed outside Canada in or with the Canadian Armed Forces, the federal public administration or the public service of a province or territory, other than as a locally engaged person (a Crown Servant);
- at the time of either of the adoptive parents’ birth or adoption, one of their parents (the adopted person’s grandparents) was employed outside Canada in or with the Canadian Armed Forces, the federal public administration or the public service of a province or territory, other than as a locally engaged person (a Crown Servant).
If you think that the first generation limit may apply to you or the adopted person, please contact us for further information (see: “How to contact us” at the end of this guide).
Persons who are not eligible for Canadian citizenship under section 5.1, the adoption provisions of the Citizenship Act, may be eligible to obtain permanent resident status in Canada and subsequently submit an application for Canadian citizenship either under subsection 5(2) in the case of a minor child (under 18 years of age) or under section 5(1) in the case of an adult.
For more information. Some naturalized Canadian citizens became Canadian citizens by descent by operation of law on April 17, 2009 and June 11, 2015, which could impact their eligibility to pass on Canadian citizenship to children born outside Canada to them or adopted by them. If you think that this may apply to you and you would like more information, please contact us (see: “How to contact us” at the end of this guide).
For more information. Some adopted persons who received a grant of Canadian citizenship under subsection 5(1), 5(2), 5(4) or 11(1) of the Citizenship Act have been deemed to have been granted Canadian citizenship under section 5.1, the adoption provisions of the Citizenship Act, which could impact their eligibility to pass on Canadian citizenship to children born outside Canada to them or adopted by them. This deeming provision is only applicable to persons whose grandparent was a Crown Servant (a person employed outside Canada in or with the Canadian Armed Forces, the federal public administration or the public service of a province or territory, other than as a locally engaged person).
If you think that this may apply to you and you would like more information, please contact us (see: “How to contact us” at the end of this guide).
Differences between a grant of Canadian citizenship under section 5.1 of the Citizenship Act and grants of Canadian citizenship under subsections 5(1) and 5(2) of the Citizenship Act
Persons who are eligible for Canadian citizenship under section 5.1, the adoption provisions of the Citizenship Act also have the option to become Canadian citizens through the regular Canadian citizenship grant process. The table below outlines the requirements which must be met for both types of Canadian citizenship applications.
| Requirements | Canadian citizenship under section 5.1 of the Citizenship Act | Canadian citizenship under subsections 5(1) and 5(2) of the Citizenship Act | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Adult | Minor | Adult – 5(1) | Minor – 5(2) | |
| Be a permanent resident and have no unfulfilled conditions relating to status as a permanent resident | No | No | YesFootnote * | Yes |
| Take the oath of citizenship | No | No | Yes | 14 years of age or older |
| Background verifications (security, criminality and immigration) | No | No | Yes | YesFootnote * |
| Physical presence (1095 days in the past five years | No | No | Yes | No |
| Meet income tax filing requirements in three taxation years that are fully or partially within the five years immediately before applying | No | No | Yes | No |
| Knowledge and language (test) | No | No | Yes | No |
The following table compares the differences between the two Canadian citizenship processes regarding the passing on of Canadian citizenship to future generations.
| Passing on Canadian citizenship to future generations | Canadian citizenship under section 5.1 of the Citizenship Act | Canadian citizenship under subsections 5(1) and 5(2) of the Citizenship Act | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Adult | Minor | Adult – 5(1) | Minor – 5(2) | |
| Eligibility to pass on Canadian citizenship to children born outside CanadaFootnote ** | No | No | Yes | Yes |
| Eligibility to have foreign-born adopted children become Canadian citizens under section 5.1, the adoption provisions of the Citizenship ActFootnote ** | No | No | Yes | Yes |
For more information on grants of Canadian citizenship under subsections 5(1) and 5(2) of the Citizenship Act, see: Determine your eligibility - Citizenship
Note: Adopted persons granted Canadian citizenship under section 5.1, the adoption provisions of the Citizenship Act, are subject to the first generation limit and will not be able to pass on Canadian citizenship to any children they have or adopt outside Canada unless one of the exceptions apply. As such, adopted persons who have permanent residence status in Canada are encouraged to apply for Canadian citizenship under subsection 5(1) or 5(2) of the Citizenship Act, depending upon their age on the date that they apply, and not to apply for Canadian citizenship under section 5.1 of the Citizenship Act.
Important information
Provincial/Territorial Central Adoption authorities
In Canada, IRCC is responsible for matters relating to immigration, refugees and citizenship; however, the provinces and territories are responsible for adoptions.
As such, if you are considering adopting a person born outside of Canada it is strongly recommended that you contact your provincial or territorial adoption authority to get adoption information. If you reside outside of Canada, it is also strongly recommended that you contact the adoption authority of the country where you reside.
Who may submit Part 1 of the application?
The following persons may submit Part 1 of the application:
- a Canadian citizen who wants to apply for Canadian citizenship on behalf of:
- a person they have adopted who is under 18 years of age; or
- a person they will adopt in the near future who is under 18 years of age; or
- a person who is 18 years of age or older, was adopted or will be adopted by a Canadian citizen and wants to apply for Canadian citizenship; or
- a legal guardian or a non-Canadian citizen parent of an adopted person who is under 18 years of age who wants to apply for Canadian citizenship on their behalf, if the adopted person had at least one Canadian citizen parent at the time of adoption.
Important information: Adopted persons 18 years of age or older must fill out and sign their own application.
Quebec adoptions
Under the Civil Code of Quebec, adoptions from countries not party to the Hague Convention must be recognized by a court in Quebec. This step takes place only after the adopted person arrives in Quebec. However, Canadian citizenship can be granted to adopted persons destined to Quebec before they arrive in Canada, as long as a full adoption has been completed in the person’s country of residence. The central adoption authority of the Quebec government must first confirm to IRCC that the adoption meets the requirements of Quebec law governing adoptions before Canadian citizenship can be granted to the adopted person.
Possible loss of foreign citizenship
Important information
The adopted person could lose their foreign citizenship if they become a Canadian citizen. If you have any questions about this, you should contact the embassy, high commission or consulate of the country of the adopted person’s foreign citizenship.
Step 1. Gather the documents
What documents are required?
This section identifies the documents that you will need to send with Part 1 of the application. Use and attach the Document Checklist: Part 1 – Confirmation of Canadian Citizenship of the Adoptive Parent(s) (PDF, 308.12KB) to ensure that your application contains all of the required documents.
- Part 1 – Confirmation of Canadian Citizenship of the Adoptive Parent(s) (PDF, 1.57MB)
- CIT 0010, completed, dated and signed.
- Two pieces of personal identification
- If the adopted person is under 18 years of age, then submit two pieces of personal identification for the person who is making the application on behalf of the adopted person (adoptive parent or legal guardian).
- If the adopted person is 18 years of age or older, then send two pieces of personal identification for the adopted person.
Both pieces of personal identification should show your name and date of birth, and at least one of which must have your photograph on it.
Examples include:
- a provincial or territorial driver’s licence
- a provincial or territorial health insurance card
- a copy of the biodata page of your passport containing your photograph and personal details, etc.
Format: Clear and legible colour copies
One proof of Canadian citizenship of the adoptive parent(s)
Examples include:
- Provincial/territorial birth certificate
- Certificate of Canadian citizenship
- Certificate of naturalization
- Certificate of Registration of Birth Abroad
- Certificate of retention of Canadian citizenship (issued between January 1, 1947 and February 14, 1977)
- British birth certificate, British certificate of naturalization or proof that they became a Canadian citizen as a result of the legislative amendments to the Citizenship Act in 2009 or 2015.
Format: Clear and legible colour copy
Payment receipt
Receipt showing total payment of application fees.
For more information. See: “Step 3. Pay the fees”.Other documents
Examples include:
- documentation proving legal guardianship (if the legal guardian is applying for Canadian citizenship on behalf of the adopted person);
- translations for any documents submitted that are not in English or French (translations must include an affidavit), if applicable;
- documentation to prove a change of name (such as a legal change of name document), if applicable.
For more information. See: “Change of name”.- documentation showing proof of the adoptive parent’s/grandparent’s employment as a Crown servant, if applicable.
For more information. See: “Crown servants”.- Use of a Representative form (IMM 5476), if applicable (original);
For more information. For instructions on completing the Use of a Representative form (IMM 5476), see Guide 5561 – Instructions – Use of a Representative.- the document checklist.
Format: Clear and legible colour copies
Translation of documents
You must include the following along with any document that is not in English or French:
- the English or French translation; and
- an affidavit from the person who completed the translation (if they are not a certified translator).
Translations may be done by:
- a person who is fluent in both languages (English or French, and the unofficial language); or
- a Canadian certified translator (a member in good standing of a provincial or territorial organization of translators and interpreters in Canada).
If the translation isn’t done by a Canadian certified translator, the person who completed the translation must provide an affidavit swearing to their language proficiency and the accuracy of the translation.
The affidavit must be sworn in the presence of:
In Canada:
Authority to certify varies by province and territory. Consult your local provincial or territorial authorities.
Outside of Canada:
- a notary public
Authority to administer oaths varies by country. Consult your local authorities.
Important information: Translations must not be done by the applicants themselves nor by members of the applicant’s family. This includes a parent, guardian, sibling, spouse, common-law partner, conjugal partner, grandparent, child, aunt, uncle, niece, nephew and first cousin.
Note: An affidavit is a document on which the translator has sworn, in the presence of a person authorized to administer oaths in the country where the translator is living, that the contents of their translation are a true translation and representation of the contents of the original document. Translators who are certified in Canada don’t need to supply an affidavit.
Name change
Consult the information below to determine the documents that are to be included with your application.
If you have legally changed your name within Canada
Then you must submit a copy of the change of name document issued by a Canadian province or territory, or by the appropriate foreign-state authority. The document must show both your previous and amended names.
The following documents are accepted:
- Legal change of name document
- Court order specifying name change
- Adoption order
The following documents are accepted for changes to family name only:
- Marriage certificate
- Divorce decree
- Registration or declaration of union issued by civil authorities
- Revocation of declaration or annulment of union issued by civil authorities
- Registration for common-law relationship, in provinces that permit changes of name for common-law relationships under their provincial/territorial law
If you have legally changed your name outside Canada and are residing in Canada
Then you must provide a copy of the following documents:
- A foreign passport or other national authoritative documentation amended to reflect the new name;
- A document that links your previous name to your new name, such as a foreign marriage certificate (with an official translation); and
- A document in the new name from Canadian provinces or territories (ex. driver's licence, health card, age of majority card, senior citizen’s identification card, or social service card)
If you have legally changed your name outside Canada and are residing outside Canada
Then you must provide a copy of the following documents:
- a foreign passport or other national authoritative documentation amended to reflect the new name;
- a document that links your previous name to your new name, such as a foreign marriage certificate (with an official translation) or other foreign legal change of name document issued by foreign authorities; and
- an authoritative national or state/province (or equivalent) issued photo identification document issued in the country or state/province in which you reside that displays the new name, such as:
- a foreign passport or other travel documents, if you are a dual citizen;
- a state/provincial (or equivalent) identification card.
If you have applied and obtained an amendment to your Record of Landing, or Confirmation of Permanent Residence due to errors made by Canadian immigration officials when recording your name, then you must submit a copy of the amendment or a letter confirming the change of name.
Important information: Once processing of your application has begun a name change can only be made due to an administrative error made by the Department, or a legal change of name.
Important information: You cannot request a change of an adopted person’s name after Part 2 of the application has been submitted.
If satisfactory documentation is not provided with the application to support the request for a change of name, the name that appears on the citizenship certificate will be the name listed on the adoption order.
Gender change
If you need to change the gender on your citizenship certificate or would like to use a different gender than the one on your immigration document, complete and submit the Request form for a Change of Sex or Gender Identifier [IRM 0002] (PDF, 1.79 MB) with your application.
Documents issued in Quebec
The following documents issued in Quebec before January 1, 1994 are not acceptable documents in support of an application for a citizenship certificate.
- baptismal certificates;
- birth certificates; and
- marriage certificates.
For more information. If you are currently in possession of one of these certificates you must obtain a new document by contacting the office of the Directeur de l’état civil du Québec
Crown Servants
The questions in this table will help you determine if proof of employment is required to demonstrate that one of the adopted person’s Canadian citizen adoptive parents or grandparents was employed outside Canada in or with the Canadian Armed Forces, the federal public administration or the public service of a province or territory, other than as a locally engaged person, at the time of their adoption or at the time of their adoptive parent’s birth or adoption.
| Questions | If your answer is: |
|---|---|
1. Was one of the Canadian citizen adoptive parents born in Canada or granted Canadian citizenship (except for a grant of Canadian citizenship under section 5.1, the adoption provisions of the Citizenship Act) before the adopted person’s adoption? |
YES. This section does not apply to you. Please proceed to the next section of this instruction guide. NO. Proceed to question 2. |
2. Was one of the Canadian citizen adoptive parents a Crown servant (employed outside Canada in or with the Canadian Armed Forces, the federal public administration or the public service of a province or territory, other than as a locally engaged person) at the time of the adopted person’s adoption? |
YES. This section does apply to you. Proof of the adoptive parent’s employment at the time of the adopted person’s adoption is required. Refer to the list of acceptable documents below. NO. Proceed to question 3. |
3. Was one of the Canadian citizen adoptive grandparents a Crown servant (employed outside Canada in or with the Canadian Armed Forces, the federal public administration or the public service of a province or territory, other than as a locally engaged person) at the time of the Canadian citizen adoptive parent’s birth or adoption outside Canada? |
YES. This section does apply to you. Proof of the grandparent’s employment at the time of the adoptive parent’s birth or adoption is required. Refer to the list of acceptable documents below. NO. This section does not apply to you. Please proceed to the next section of this instruction guide. |
Proof of parent or grandparent’s employment as a Crown servant
The employment document must be issued by the responsible authority (the employer) and contain the following information:
- Names of the Canadian citizen adoptive parent or of the parent of the Canadian citizen adoptive parent (the adopted person’s grandparent), as applicable; and
- Start date, employment duration and title of the position they held in or with the Canadian Armed Forces, the federal public administration or the public service of a province or territory; and
- Transfer date, employment duration and title of the position they held outside Canada in or with the Canadian Armed Forces, the federal public administration or the public service of a province or territory.
Step 2. Complete the application
Filling out Part 1 of the application
Follow the step-by-step instructions below to complete the Part 1 application form.
The following is the form that must be filled out and submitted:
Optional:
It is a serious offence to give false or misleading information on your application form. The information you provide on your application form may be subject to verification.
Important information
Be complete and accurate
Complete all sections of the application form. If a section does not apply to you, write “N/A” (“Not Applicable”). If your application form is incomplete, it may be returned to you and processing may be delayed.
Note: If you need more space for any section, print an additional page containing the applicable section, complete it and attach it to your application.
You must submit a separate application for each adopted person.
Section 1
- Question 1
-
Would you like to receive service (correspondence or interview) in English or in French? Check the applicable box to identify the official language in which you would like to receive service.
Section 2
- Question 2A
-
Check the applicable box to identify who is applying on behalf of the adopted person:
- the adoptive parent, including a non-Canadian parent (for minors);
- the adopted person (if 18 years of age or older); or
- the legal guardian (for minors).
Note: A legal guardian or a non-Canadian parent may apply on behalf of an adopted person who is under 18 years of age if the adopted person had at least one Canadian citizen parent at the time of the adoption. If the adopted person is 18 years of age or older, they must complete and sign their own application.
- Question 2B
-
Write the last name (surname/family name) and given name(s) of the person applying for the adopted person’s Canadian citizenship.
- Question 2C
-
Write the complete residential address of the applicant, including the postal code and country.
- Question 2D
-
Write the complete mailing address, including the postal code and country, if different from the residential address in question 2C. If the mailing address is that of a representative, you must write their mailing address in this section and complete the Use of a Representative form (IMM 5476).
- Question 2E
-
Write the same address you entered in question 2D for your mailing address (or your residential address entered in question 2C if you have no mailing address) in the language of the country where you reside, if not in English or French (for example: Arabic, Cyrillic, Chinese, Korean, Japanese characters or Chinese commercial/telegraphic code).
- Question 2F
-
Write all of the applicable contact details for where you can be reached, including:
- a home telephone number,
- a business telephone number,
- a cellular telephone number,
- a facsimile (fax) number, and
- an e-mail address.
Note: By indicating your e-mail address, you are hereby authorizing us to transmit all correspondence, including your file and personal information to this specific e-mail address.
If the contact details are those of a representative, you must write them in this section and complete the Use of a Representative form (IMM 5476).
Section 3
- Question 3A
Write the following details of the adoptive parent(s):
- the last name (surname/family name);
- the given name(s);
- any other name(s) used (if applicable), including birth name, name(s) from previous marriage(s), aliases, nicknames, etc.; and
- the country and date of birth (year/month/day).
Note: If there are two adoptive parents, complete section 3 for both adoptive parents.
- Question 3B
Check the applicable box to indicate whether or not the adoptive parent(s) is a/are Canadian citizen(s). If they are, indicate how they obtained Canadian citizenship, such as:
- by birth in Canada;
- by a grant of Canadian citizenship (other than a grant of Canadian citizenship under the adoption provisions of the Citizenship Act);
- by birth outside Canada to a Canadian citizen parent;
- by a grant of Canadian citizenship under section 5.1, the adoption provisions of the Citizenship Act; or
- by naturalization in Canada as a British subject, etc.
Also check the applicable boxes to indicate whether or not one (or both) of the adoptive parents was employed as a Crown servant at the time of the adopted person’s adoption. If yes, provide details of their employment.
- Question 3C
Check the applicable box to indicate whether or not the adoptive parent(s) was/were ever issued (a) Canadian citizenship certificate(s).
If yes, write the certificate number(s), the last name(s) (surname/family name) and given name(s) as they appear on the certificate(s).
- Question 3D
Check the applicable box to indicate whether or not the adoptive parent(s) resided outside Canada for more than one year before 1977.
If yes, write the dates (year/month) and destination(s) outside Canada where the adoptive parent(s) resided.
- Question 3E
Check the applicable box to indicate whether or not the adoptive parent(s) is/are or was/were (a) citizen(s) of another country. If yes, write:
- the name of the country or countries;
- the date(s) the adoptive parent(s) became (a) citizen(s) of that country or those countries (year/month/day); and
- the means by which they obtained that citizenship or those citizenships (by birth in the country, through parentage, by naturalization, by marriage or other).
Attach a separate page if needed.
- Question 3F
Note: Do not answer this question if the adoptive parent(s) was/were born in Canada. Proceed directly to question 3G.
If the adoptive parent was born outside Canada, check the applicable box to indicate whether or not one of his/her parents was a Canadian citizen at the time of his/her birth.
If the adoptive parent was born outside Canada, check the applicable box to indicate whether or not one of his/her parents was employed outside Canada as a Crown servant (in or with the Canadian Armed Forces, the federal public administration or the public service of a province or territory other than as a locally engaged person) at the time of his/her birth or adoption.
If you answered yes to either question, provide the following information for the adoptive parent's parents:
- last name (surname/last name);
- other names used (name at birth, if applicable);
- given name(s);
- country of birth;
- date of birth;
- details on how the adoptive parent's parents obtained Canadian citizenship; and
- details on the Crown service.
Also check the applicable boxes and provide the same information for the other adoptive parent's parents.
- Question 3G
Check the applicable box to indicate whether or not one of the parents of the adoptive parent(s) was employed in Canada by a foreign government or international agency. If yes, write the name(s) of the employer(s) and the employment start date(s) (year/month/day).
Attach a separate page if needed.
Section 4
- Question 4A
-
Check the applicable box to indicate whether or not the adoption has been completed.
If no, write:
- where it will be completed (place (city/town), region/province and country).
If yes, write:
- when it was completed (year/month/day);
- where the adoption order was issued (place (city/town), region/province and country); and
- the age of the adopted person at the time of adoption.
Note: If the adoption has been completed, enter the date and location of the adoption along with the age of the adopted person as they appear on the adoption order. Canadian citizenship cannot be granted until after the adoption has been finalized.
For more information. See: “Quebec adoptions” in the “Before you apply” section if the adopted person is destined to the province of Quebec. - Question 4B
-
Check the applicable box to indicate whether or not the adopted person is a relative of one of the adoptive parents. If yes, indicate the relationship and to which adoptive parent.
Note: A relative is someone who has a relationship with another person either by blood or through marriage (for example: sibling, cousin, niece, nephew, grandchild, etc.).
- Question 4C
-
Write where the adopted person currently resides (if known).
Write:
- the place (city/town);
- the region/province; and
- the country.
- Question 4D
-
Check the applicable box to indicate whether or not the adopted person will come to Canada to live immediately after Canadian citizenship is granted.
If yes, write the name of the province or territory in which the adopted person will be living after their arrival in Canada.
Section 5
- Question 5A
Check the applicable box to indicate whether or not the personal details of the adopted person are known.
Note: The rest of section 5 below is to be completed only if the personal details of the adopted person are known. If they are not known, proceed directly to section 6.
- Question 5B
Write the last name (surname/family name) and given name(s) at birth of the adopted person.
- Question 5C
Enter the following information about the adopted person:
- their date of birth (year/month/day);
- their place of birth (city/town);
- their country of birth; and
- their country or countries of current citizenship.
- Question 5D
Check the appropriate box to indicate the gender of the adopted person.
- Question 5E
Check the applicable box to indicate whether or not you know where the adopted person currently resides.
If yes, write the complete address, including the postal code and country, along with the name of a contact person or organization where the adopted person currently resides.
Note: If the adopted person is completing this application form, check the box “I am the adopted person (skip this section)” in question 5E and proceed directly to question 5F.
- Question 5F
Check the applicable box to indicate whether or not you have previously submitted a sponsorship or a permanent residence application for the adopted person, or if you are the adopted person, whether or not one has been submitted on your behalf.
If yes, write the approximate date (year/month) the application was submitted.
Section 6
- Question 6
-
If you appoint an individual, firm or organization as your representative, you must complete the Use of a Representative form (IMM 5476). Note that once you appoint a representative, all correspondence from us regarding your application will be directed to them and not to you.
For instructions on completing the Use of a Representative form (IMM 5476), see: Guide 5561 – Instructions – Use of a Representative.
Note: The individual or authorized officer of the firm or organization that assisted in the completion of the application must complete, sign and date this section.
Section 7
Read and sign the declaration.
Note
The parent, legal guardian or adopted person (if 18 years of age or older) must sign the application form and write the place (city/town) where the application form was signed along with the date (year/month/day). The application form should be signed and dated on the same day.
The application form must be signed and dated before it is mailed.
Note
Note: Your application will be returned to you if:
- You have appointed an individual, firm or organization as your representative and you did not submit the Use of a Representative form (IMM 5476) with your application or this form was submitted incomplete.
- You appoint a compensated representative who is not a member of the following designated bodies:
- immigration consultants who are members in good standing of College of Immigration and Citizenship Consultants (CICC);
- lawyers and paralegals who are members in good standing of a Canadian provincial or territorial law society and students-at-law under their supervision; and
- notaries who are members in good standing of the Chambre des notaires du Québec and students-at-law under their supervision.
Step 3. Pay the fees
Your fees
Use the table below to calculate the total amount of fees to be paid. Full fees must be included with the application.
| Application (per person) | $CAN |
|---|---|
| Minor (under 18) Processing fee ($100) |
$100 |
| Adult (18 and over) Processing fee ($530) and right of citizenship fee ($100) |
$630 |
Explanation of fees and refunds
This section describes the fees that are required to be paid and whether or not they are refundable. Payment must be made in Canadian funds.
Processing Fee
$100 for each minor (under 18 at the time of application) and $530 for each adult (18 and over at the time of application).
Non-refundable once processing has begun, regardless of the final decision.
Right of Citizenship Fee for the adult (18 and over at the time of application)
The $100 Right of Citizenship Fee is in addition to the Processing Fee of $530 for a total of $630.
Refundable if:
- your application is refused; or
- we receive your request to withdraw your application before the date the adopted person becomes a Canadian citizen.
Note: We will issue the refund to the person listed in the Payer Information section of the Receipt form. If there is no name listed on the Receipt form, we will send the refund to the applicant.
Payment Issues
No fee included or insufficient fees
If you do not pay the full fees for your application(s) we will return your application(s). We will only start processing your application after you return it with the correct fees.
For immigration applications, see section 10 of the IRPR and for citizenship applications, see section 13 of the Citizenship Act for more information.
Overpayment
If you pay more than the fees needed for your application(s) we will start processing your application, and send you a refund as soon as possible.
Note: You don’t have to ask for a refund. It will be done automatically.
Note: If you’re eligible for a refund, we will issue the refund to the person indicated on the Payer Information section of the receipt (if a receipt is attached to a paper application or uploaded as part of an online application). If you paid directly within an online application (no receipt attached), or if there is no name indicated on the receipt, we will send the refund to the applicant.
Only online payments are accepted in Canada. If any other forms of payment are received, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) will return your application.
On-line fee payment
Availability
For clients located inside and outside of Canada.
How to pay the fees for your application
To pay your fees for your application you’ll need:
- a valid e-mail address;
- access to a printer (you’ll need to print the receipt), and
- a credit card, Debit MasterCard® or Visa® Debit card.
Visit the link below and follow these instructions to pay:
- Go to Online Payment.
- Follow the online instructions.
- At the end, click on the button to print the IRCC official receipt with barcode. Print two copies.
- Attach a copy of this receipt to your completed application.
- Keep the second copy of the receipt for your records.
Do not exit without printing the receipt! The printed receipt is your proof of payment!
Note
The only acceptable form of payment is online payment. If you send any other form of payment, IRCC will return your application.
Outside Canada only
The following mode of payment may be used ONLY if you do not have access to the Internet. If you do not have access to the Internet, you may pay by International bank draft or money order in Canadian funds.
Note: The only acceptable forms of payment outside Canada are online or by International bank draft or money order in Canadian funds. If you send any other form of payment (including cash and personal cheques) from outside Canada your application will be returned.
Instructions
Follow these step-by-step instructions to pay with an International bank draft or money order.
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Calculate the total fee amount to be paid using the Calculating your fees at the beginning of this section.
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Obtain an international bank draft or money order payable to the Receiver General for Canada. Fees must be in Canadian funds for the required amount only.
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Ensure that the bank draft or money order:
- can be cashed through a Canadian financial institution; and
- clearly indicates on its face the name and complete address (must not be a post office box number) and the transit and account numbers of the financial institution in Canada where it may be cashed.
Incomplete or improper identification of the financial institution may result in processing delays and even in the return of your application.
- Include the bank draft or money order in Canadian funds with your completed application.
Proof of payment
Bank draft or money order in Canadian funds.
Step 4. Mail the application
Where to mail the application
Use a courier to submit your paper application
Due to the labour disruption at Canada Post, you need to use a courier to send us your application. Use one that offers tracking so you have proof your application was delivered.
Mail your completed application form and required documents in a stamped envelope to the address shown below:
(Your Name)
(Your Address)
(Your Postal Code)
Recipient (centre of the envelope)Recipient (centre of the envelope) IRCC Digitization Centre – Adoptions
3050 Wilson Ave
New Waterford, NS B1H 5V8
CANADA
Sign and date the application form
The Part 1 application form must be signed and dated before it is mailed.
If the adopted person is:
- 18 years of age or older, they must sign and date the application form
- under 18 years of age, the application form must be signed and dated by one of their parents or legal guardians.
Note: If your application form is not signed and dated, it will be returned to you.
Send the document checklist with Part 1 of the application
Make sure you use the document checklist and include it with Part 1 of the application.
If you’re sending more than one application
If you are sending more than one application (for example, applications for family members, including siblings), you may send one receipt to cover all applications. Mail the receipt (if applicable) and all applications together in one envelope so that they will be processed together.
Note: If you’re sending more than one application, and one of the applications is incomplete, all the applications will be returned to you.
What happens next?
Processing of Part 1 of the application
The section below explains the phases of processing for Part 1 of the application.
Phase: Initial review
We review Part 1 of the application to make sure that:
- all required documents have been submitted, and
- the full fee payment has been made.
When Part 1 of the application has been received by the Digitization Centre in New Waterford, Nova Scotia, you will receive:
- a letter of acknowledgment confirming the reception of Part 1 of the application.
Phase: Verification of Canadian Citizenship of the adoptive parent(s) and eligibility to pass on Canadian citizenship
We verify that at least one of the adoptive parents is a Canadian citizen and is eligible to pass on Canadian citizenship to the adopted person.
Phase: Decision letter
After the assessment of Part 1 of the application, we will send you a decision letter.
If Part 1 of the application is approved, you will receive:
- a decision letter confirming that a least one of the adoptive parents is a Canadian citizen who is eligible to pass on Canadian citizenship to the adopted person
- instructions on when and where to submit Part 2 of the application, Part 2 — Adoptee’s application (CIT 0012), and
- instructions on where to submit the Canadian Citizenship Certificate Preparation Form (CIT 0480).
If Part 1 of the application is refused, you will receive:
- a refusal letter.
Part 2 of the application
Part 2 of the application will be processed only if Part 1 – Confirmation of Canadian Citizenship of the Adoptive Parent(s) has been approved. Do not send Part 2 of the application until you have received a decision letter indicating that Part 1 has been approved.
Note: In order to accommodate situations where an adoption takes longer to complete, the applicant has three years from the date of the approval of Part 1 of the application to submit Part 2 of the application.
Note: If you choose to begin gathering the required documents for Part 2 of the application in advance, you can download the Part 2 – Adoptee’s Application and follow the on-line instructions.
Important information
Updating your contact information
During the Citizenship process, you must advise us of any change of address or telephone number.
If you reside in Canada
- select Change my address
If you reside outside Canada
- contact the Canadian visa office responsible for the country where you reside.
Checking application status
You can check the status of the minor’s application online. The status will only appear online once we receive and have accepted the minor’s application into processing.
Find out how to remove the minor's application status information from the Internet.
Protecting your information
Your personal information is:
- available to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) and the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) employees who need to see it to provide the services to you, and
- not disclosed to other organizations except as permitted under the provisions of the Privacy Act or the Citizenship Regulations.
For more information about the protection of your data, visit the Frequently Asked Questions/Help Centre.
Need help?
If you need help, you can find answers to your questions by visiting the Help Centre.
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