Copy from CP 13 Policy Administrations (2010) about Cancel/Withdraw citizenship application
The Citizenship Act does not specifically address a situation where an applicant decides to
voluntarily withdraw their citizenship application. However, because the citizenship legislation
does not constrain the applicant's discretion to withdraw their application, CIC policy is to permit
the applicant the opportunity to withdraw their application should they decide it is in their best
interest to do so. Since it is the applicant who may decide to withdraw their citizenship
application, at their discretion, citizenship officials should generally avoid recommending that an
applicant withdraw their application to avoid the perception that the decision to withdraw was
influenced or made for the benefit of CIC or citizenship officials.
In general, unless the applicant no longer wishes to become a Canadian citizen or continue to
pursue their application, the applicant does not benefit from withdrawing their application. An
applicant who withdraws their application loses the right to appeal a decision. Whether an
application is withdrawn or non-approved, the client is refunded the $100 Right of Citizenship fee.
By withdrawing, the applicant loses an opportunity to be counselled in an in-person setting on
when they will be eligible to apply, and also forfeits the opportunity to have their application
assessed against the legislative requirements, which may help the applicant identify areas where
the applicant is weak and could be better prepared for the next time they apply.
It is possible that an applicant is not aware that withdrawing their application is an option which
provides a solution in particular circumstances. Therefore, there may be situations where CIC
officials may suggest a withdrawal, such as in the following circumstances:
• the applicant informs the citizenship office that they will not be available to pursue their
application and will continue to be unavailable for the foreseeable future (e.g., for the next six
months or longer);
• the applicant has changed their mind about becoming a Canadian citizen (for example, the
applicant has just realized that they will lose their current citizenship, or they no longer wish
to give up their current citizenship).
9.4. General rules for grant and proof withdrawals
An applicant can withdraw an application for any reason and at any time before the person
becomes a citizen by taking the oath of citizenship.
Withdrawals of applications must be done in writing either by using the appropriate withdrawal
form, or by sending a letter to citizenship authorities requesting withdrawal of the application.
Withdrawals on behalf of minors must be done by a parent or legal guardian. If the concerned
minor is older than 14, the minor should countersign the request for withdrawal, if possible.
Before returning the file to CPC Sydney for file retirement, review the file to assess if it needs to
be referred to Case Management for review under Section 29.
