For every permanent resident, obtaining citizenship in Canada is a gratifying accomplishment, but the path to citizenship requires careful planning. At Rio Immigration Consultants, we frequently assist clients in successfully navigating this procedure. However, we’ve seen how some issues can cause delays or disruptions in applications, and with the correct strategy, many of these can be prevented.
Applications that need further examination are classified as “non-routine” or “complex” by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). Processing these claims frequently takes longer than the allotted eight months. Over 42,000 citizenship petitions are currently pending before the IRCC, with those classified as complicated most likely to experience additional delays.
1. Missing or Incomplete Documentation
We’ve outlined the most frequent reasons the IRCC deems an application complicated, along with tips on how to avoid them, to help you stay on course.
Common errors include:
- Missing passport pages or travel records
- Insufficient evidence of language proficiency
- Unclear identification documents
Make sure all the necessary documents are included the first time and that they satisfy the IRCC’s requirements to prevent delays. To help you understand what each document has to contain, we’ve given a comprehensive reference table below this text.
| Common Issues | Tips to Avoid Delays | |
| Missing stamps, incomplete travel history, or not submitting all relevant pages | Submit clear copies of all passport pages with travel stamps and visas, even expired ones | |
| Not accepted format (e.g., unapproved tests), expired results, or not included | Submit approved language test results (CELPIP, IELTS – General), transcripts, or diplomas showing instruction in English or French | |
| Unclear scans, missing pages, or inconsistent information | Submit clear, color copies of both sides of your PR card, IDs, and ensure information matches exactly across all documents | |
| Not included or errors in calculation | Use the official IRCC online calculator and print/download the final version with accurate travel dates | |
| Not submitted when requested, expired, or from wrong authority | Check if needed based on residence history and ensure timely submission from proper authorities |
2. Missed Appointments
Your application may be delayed or maybe denied if you are summoned for a citizenship exam, interview, or hearing and you do not show up without warning or a good cause. Life occurs, but it’s important to communicate.
What to do:
- Keep your contact information up to date with IRCC
- Keep regular checks your email and mail.
- If unable to attend an event, notify the IRCC right once and ask that it be rescheduled.
3. Criminal or Security Concerns
Your application will be flagged as complex if the IRCC discovers a possible security vulnerability or if you have been charged with or convicted of a crime. Even little charges could lead to major delays.
What to consider:
- Disclose all criminal history honestly in your application
- If you’re unclear how previous instances can impact your application, get legal or immigration counsel.
- Understand the requirements for inadmissibility; among the main grounds for denial are serious criminal activity and deception.
To Conclude Be Proactive, Not Reactive
Starting with a full and well-documented application is the key to preventing delays. Rio Immigration Consultancy Group helps applicants feel confident about their citizenship process by assisting them with every stage, from obtaining the necessary paperwork to interview preparation.
We advise candidates to carefully go over the checklist, which can be found on the IRCC website or with our staff, and to consult an expert when unsure.
Are you prepared to apply or do you require assistance determining your eligibility? For a consultation, contact us right now.
