To withdraw your Canadian citizenship application, you must submit a formal request through the IRCC Webform before taking the Oath of Citizenship. You will automatically receive a refund for the $100 CAD Right of Citizenship fee, but the $530 CAD processing fee is strictly non-refundable once processing has started.
Life plans change, and sometimes permanent residents decide to relocate outside of Canada or indefinitely postpone their citizenship journey. If you have already submitted your paperwork, simply ignoring test invitations or requests for biometrics is not the proper legal route. 📍 Whether you currently live in Montreal, Calgary, or Toronto, formally withdrawing your Canadian citizenship application ensures your immigration record remains clean with Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). Most applicants find that consulting a local law firm from our directory helps clarify the process and ensures their PR status is not jeopardised.
Step-by-Step Process for Withdrawing a Citizenship Application in Canada
Withdrawing an application is a final decision. Once IRCC processes the withdrawal, you cannot reopen the file; you must start completely over and pay new fees if you change your mind in the future.
Step 1: Locate Your Application Details
Before contacting IRCC, you must gather your specific file information. 📄 You will need your Unique Client Identifier (UCI), your application number (which usually begins with a “C”), and a copy of your Acknowledgment of Receipt (AOR). Having these details ensures IRCC identifies the correct file.
Step 2: Draft a Formal Withdrawal Letter
You must provide a written explanation stating that you wish to withdraw your application. This document must include your full name, date of birth, address, and the specific reason for withdrawal (e.g., “I am relocating for a job outside of Canada”). Ensure you sign and date the letter. If it is a family application, clearly state whether you are withdrawing just your application or the entire family’s.
Step 3: Submit the Request via IRCC Webform
The most efficient way to submit your withdrawal request is through the official IRCC Webform. 💻 Select the “Withdraw my application” category. Upload your signed withdrawal letter and a copy of your Permanent Resident card or passport as proof of identity. Do not mail a physical letter unless IRCC specifically requests it, as processing times at local offices in Vancouver or Halifax can be excessively long.
Step 4: Monitor for Confirmation and Refund
Once IRCC processes your request, you will receive a formal cancellation letter in your email or IRCC Secure Account. The refund for the eligible portion of your fees will automatically be issued to the original credit card used for payment. If that card is expired, IRCC will mail a cheque to your current address.
How Much Does it Cost to Withdraw in Canada?
Withdrawing your application involves understanding which government fees are forfeit and which are returned to you.
- Right of Citizenship Fee: This $100 CAD fee is always fully refundable as long as you withdraw before taking the Oath of Citizenship.
- Processing Fee: The $530 CAD processing fee is only refundable if you withdraw before IRCC has started processing your application. Once they send an AOR and begin background checks, this fee is forfeit.
- Lawyer Consultation: If you hire a lawyer to handle the withdrawal and ensure your PR status remains intact, expect to pay a consultation fee of $200 CAD to $500 CAD.
How Long Does the Process Take?
The time it takes to officially close your file depends on IRCC’s current workload. Generally, it takes between 4 to 8 weeks for IRCC to process a withdrawal request submitted via webform. If you are eligible for a refund, it may take an additional 4 to 6 weeks for the funds to appear on your credit card or for a cheque to arrive in the mail.
Refund Eligibility by Processing Stage
Understanding when you pull the plug dictates what money you get back.
| Application Stage | $530 Processing Fee | $100 Right of Citizenship Fee |
|---|---|---|
| Before AOR (Not Started) | Fully Refundable | Fully Refundable |
| In Process (Test Phase) | Non-Refundable | Fully Refundable |
| After Oath Ceremony | Non-Refundable | Non-Refundable |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Will withdrawing my citizenship affect my PR status?
No. Withdrawing your citizenship application has absolutely no negative impact on your Canadian Permanent Resident status, provided you continue to meet your PR residency obligations.
What if I just ignore the citizenship test invitation?
If you fail to attend the test or respond to IRCC notices, your application will eventually be marked as “abandoned.” It is always better for your immigration record to formally withdraw rather than abandon the process.
Can I get a refund if my application is refused?
If a citizenship judge officially refuses your application, you will not receive a refund for the processing fee, but IRCC will still automatically refund the $100 Right of Citizenship fee.
Do I need a lawyer to withdraw my application?
You are not legally required to have a lawyer or law firm withdraw your application. However, if you have complex issues regarding your residency days, legal advice is highly recommended.
How is the refund issued if I used a prepaid card?
If you used a prepaid credit card that is no longer active, IRCC cannot process the refund electronically. They will issue a standard Government of Canada cheque and mail it to your registered address.
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