Avoid Delays and Get Your Canadian Citizenship Approved Faster with Expert Immigration Guidance
Getting your Canadian citizenship is a big step—and for many, it’s something they’ve worked toward for years. But even when you think everything is in order, delays can sneak up on you.
At Sayal Immigration, we often meet people who are frustrated by unexpected holdups. Sometimes it’s a simple paperwork issue. Other times, it’s a bit more complicated. Either way, understanding what causes delays—and how to avoid them—can make all the difference.
Let’s take a closer look at the most common reasons citizenship applications get delayed in 2025 and how to stay ahead of the curve.
1. You Missed Something in the Application
This happens more often than you’d think. A missing signature, a form not fully filled out, or a document that didn’t get uploaded—any of these can cause IRCC to pause your application.
You’ll find all the requirements on the official IRCC guide, but even then, it’s easy to overlook something.
👉 Tip: If you’re not 100% sure everything’s in place, work with an Immigration Consultant in Mississauga. A second set of eyes can save months of waiting.
2. You Didn’t Meet the Time-in-Canada Rule
To apply for Canadian citizenship, you need to have lived in Canada for at least 1,095 days over the past 5 years. Even if you’ve been here for years, time spent outside the country—vacations, work trips, family emergencies—can count against you.
The physical presence calculator from IRCC can help you figure this out before applying.
👉 Real Talk: We’ve seen applicants who thought they were eligible but came up just short. Our Immigration Consultant in Toronto can walk you through your travel history and help you know exactly where you stand.
3. Past Legal Issues or Missteps
Have you ever been in legal trouble, even outside Canada? Or maybe you unintentionally gave incorrect info during a visa or PR application? If so, IRCC may flag your citizenship application for review.
It doesn’t automatically mean rejection—but it does mean extra scrutiny.
👉 What to Do: Be upfront about your history. A trusted Immigration Consultant in Brampton can help you write a clear explanation letter and guide you on how to respond if IRCC asks questions.
Need help? Visit our page on Immigration Appeals and Refusals.
4. Missed IRCC Appointments or Deadlines
Whether it’s a citizenship test, interview, or document request—missing even one appointment without notice can lead to serious delays or even file closure.
👉 Stay Sharp: Always check your email and your IRCC account. If you’re overwhelmed, our team can help you track everything. Our Canadian Citizenship Services include hands-on support from start to finish.
5. Language Requirements Not Met
If you’re between 18 and 54, you’ll need to prove that you can speak English or French at a basic level (CLB 4 or higher). If your documents don’t clearly show this, IRCC may ask for more proof—or delay your application until they get it.
Acceptable proof includes:
- Test results (like IELTS or CELPIP)
- School transcripts from Canada
- LINC/CLIC certificates
👉 Reality Check: Don’t assume your school papers are enough. Speak with our Immigration Consultant in Kitchener to find out what IRCC accepts—and what they don’t.
Want to improve your language score before applying? Check out our Study in Canada programs that can help build your skills.
6. You Didn’t File Taxes for Enough Years
You need to have filed taxes in Canada for at least 3 of the past 5 years. If CRA has no record of your filings, IRCC might delay your file while they verify everything.
👉 Double Check: Log into your CRA account and confirm that you’ve filed the required years.
Still unsure? Speak with an Immigration Consultant in Scarborough. We’ll help you get things sorted before IRCC has to ask.
7. They Asked You for Extra Docs
Even if your application was complete, IRCC might still request:
- Police certificates
- Extra proof of identity
- Clarification on past immigration history
This is totally normal—but it means more time waiting if you don’t respond quickly.
👉 Pro Tip: Don’t panic. Our Best immigration consultant in London Ontario specializes in quick turnaround for additional document requests.
8. IRCC Is Just… Backlogged
Unfortunately, not every delay is your fault. If your case is more complex or part of a backlog, processing can take longer.
Things like:
- Multiple names or IDs across countries
- Dual citizenship issues
- Long security checks
…can all add time to your case.
👉 Best Move: Don’t sit and wait. Our team—recognized as a leading Immigration Consultant in Canada—can help you request updates, escalate files when needed, or check status with the right offices.
How Sayal Immigration Can Help
No matter where you’re applying from—Toronto, Mississauga, Brampton, Kitchener, Scarborough, or London—our licensed consultants are here to make the process easier.
Here’s what we offer:
- Document checks and file reviews
- Citizenship test preparation
- Language proof support
- PR card renewals
- Full Immigration Services for workers, students, families, and more
Need a hand? Book a consultation with us today.
Final Thoughts
Delays in your citizenship journey can be frustrating—but most of them are avoidable. Whether it’s a missing form, a travel date discrepancy, or something more complex, you don’t have to figure it out alone.
At Sayal Immigration, we’ve helped thousands of newcomers become proud Canadian citizens. And we’re ready to help you, too.
🗓️ Book an Appointment with Sahil for any Immigration related Queries
✅ Reach out to an Immigration Consultant in Mississauga or your nearest city, and let’s get your citizenship process back on track.