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Citizenship physical presence calculator

To apply for Canadian citizenship, most adults must have been physically present in Canada for at least 1,095 days (3 years) in the 5 years before they sign their application. Use this calculator to get an estimate.

Trips outside Canada in the last 5 years

Add every trip. The day you left and the day you came back both count as days in Canada.

The rules in short

  • You need at least 1,095 days of physical presence in the 5 years before the date you sign your application.
  • Each day as a permanent resident counts as 1 day.
  • Each day in Canada as a temporary resident or protected person before you became a PR counts as half a day, up to a maximum of 365 days.
  • Time as a protected person counts only from the date your claim was approved.
  • Time in prison, on parole or on probation, and time waiting for a refugee claim decision, does not count.
  • You may also need to have filed Canadian taxes for at least 3 of the 5 years.
  • Adults aged 18 to 54 must also show English or French skills (CLB/NCLC level 4) and pass the citizenship test.

This calculator gives an estimate only. It does not save or send your dates anywhere. IRCC recommends applying with more than 1,095 days, and you must use IRCC's official physical presence calculator or record your days in your application. Always check the official rules.

Official eligibility rules (IRCC) ↗

Frequently asked questions

How many days do I need for Canadian citizenship?

At least 1,095 days (3 years) of physical presence in Canada in the 5 years before you sign your application.

Do days before I became a permanent resident count?

Yes, if you were in Canada as a temporary resident or protected person. Each day counts as half a day, up to a maximum of 365 days.

Do the days I leave and return to Canada count?

Yes. When you travel, the day you leave and the day you come back both count as days in Canada.