Canada aiming to open online citizenship applications for multiple adults in fall 2022

Couples and families with multiple adults will soon be able to apply for citizenship online, according to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).

Currently, only single adult applicants can submit their citizenship applications online. However, IRCC told CIC News in an email that adults may be able to apply together in fall 2022. After that, the online portal will open to minors and families.

"IRCC is working towards an expansion of the e-Application in order to allow Adults (i.e., 18 or older) to apply online together as a family or a group, and is currently targeting a Fall 2022 implementation," an IRCC spokesperson said. "Planning has commenced for further e-Application expansion to minors under 18 years of age, as well as adults and minors applying together as a family or a group."

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IRCC said following the implementation of the e-application, it will begin to develop "additional functionality for representatives." Currently, representatives can only help prepare online applications, but cannot submit on a client's behalf. They can communicate with IRCC on the applicant's behalf before and after the online application is submitted.

"In November of 2021, IRCC updated the system so clients can submit the IMM 5476 – Use of Representatives form, allowing them to use the services of a representative in preparing their applications. We also updated the screening questions to allow clients working with representatives to submit their application electronically," IRCC wrote.

"Following the implementation of the e-Application expansion to minors and groups, the Department will begin development of additional functionality for representatives."

In August 2021, IRCC claimed online citizenship applications would open to families and minors later in the year, and to representatives in 2022.

IRCC opened an online portal to proof of citizenship applicants in November 2021.

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