[size=10pt][glow=red,2,300]Obtaining Canadian Citizenship May Soon Become Harder[/glow][/size]
Below is a brief outline of the proposed changes, as well as important information for current and future citizenship applicants:
1.Speed up processing times by reducing the application review process from three steps to one step;
2.[/color]red,2,300]Increase the citizenship application fee from $100 to $300 per person;
3.Require up-front proof of certain requirements; and
4.Change certain parts of the judicial review and appeal process as well as the process for issuing discretionary grants.
5.2[/color],300]Increase residency requirements from 3 out of 4 years to 4 out of 6 years;
6.No longer count time spent in Canada as a non-permanent residents (such as student or worker) towards the residency requirements for a citizenship application;
7.Require citizenship applicants to declare their intent to reside in Canada;
8.Require applicants to file Canadian income taxes, only if required to file;
9.Expand the age group for applicants required to demonstrate language proficiency and take a knowledge test. The group is currently 18-54, and will be expanded to 14-64; and
10.Fast-track citizenship applications for permanent residents who join the Canadian Armed Forces;
Rahul Dutta