CANADIAN CITIZENSHIP PROCESS, BENEFITS - For the hundreds of thousands of immigrants who move to Canada every year, it is their goal to one day obtain Canadian citizenship. Obtaining Canadian citizenship is not only a symbolic act, but also adds to the list of benefits one can receive. In order to be able to apply for citizenship, you must first meet the criteria set out by Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC).
To apply for Canadian citizenship, a permanent resident must have been in the country for 3 out of 4 years and have a clean criminal record. It is advisable that you keep records of all trips you have made outside of Canada during this time.