Online citizenship test: what to expect and tech requirements
The online citizenship test is taken on a desktop computer, laptop or tablet with a webcam, in Chrome or Safari, with a reliable internet connection and no VPN. You take it alone, with no notes and no other devices, in one well-lit spot. Once you press start, a 45-minute timer runs and cannot be paused. IRCC invites most applicants to take the test online.
Everything below comes from IRCC's page on taking the online test, which is the page to reread the day before. igotcitizenship is an independent study app and is not affiliated with Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), and our practice test is not a replica of IRCC's test system.
Technical requirements
| You need | Details from IRCC |
|---|---|
| A device | A desktop computer, laptop or tablet with a webcam |
| A browser | Chrome or Safari |
| Internet | A reliable connection, with any VPN turned off |
| Not allowed | A mobile phone, Chrome on an iPad, or a Microsoft Surface Pro |
If you see a blank screen or a message that your browser is not supported, switch to Chrome or Safari. If you get a 403 error, IRCC suggests turning off your VPN and browser extensions, trying another device or connection, or waiting a few hours.
Test your webcam before the day. IRCC links to webcam help for Chrome, Chromebook, Mac and Windows on its online test page.
Your room and your ID
- Good lighting, so the webcam can see you clearly.
- The same spot throughout. You must take the test where you took your ID and self photos.
- A clear background. Remove things that show personal information, such as a diploma on the wall.
- Alone. No one else can be with you.
- Anywhere. You do not need to be in Canada, and a public library or public computer is acceptable.
For ID, have your permanent resident card (even if it has expired), or a valid photo ID with your signature, such as a driver's licence or health card.
Step by step on the day
- Wait for your invitation. Sign in only after it arrives, with your application number and your unique client identifier (UCI), and accept the privacy notice and terms.
- Ask for the test link. Choose "Email me the test link". It goes to the email on your application, or your representative's. It can take a few minutes, and it expires after 15 minutes. If you asked more than once, use the latest link.
- Sign in again with your application number and UCI.
- Take your photos. Photograph your ID and yourself. Religious or traditional clothing and glasses are fine, but your face must be clearly visible. If a photo is blurry, choose "Retake" before you approve it.
- Start the test. The 45-minute timer begins.
The rules during the test
IRCC's rules are short and strict:
- Do not use any other device.
- Do not look at study materials.
- Do not use your browser's back button.
- Do not open other tabs, windows or programs.
- Do not take the test with anyone else present.
Your webcam takes random photos during the test. IRCC compares them with your start photo and your application photos to confirm it is you and that you are alone. Blurry or unclear photos can get a test invalidated.
Timing
The test has 20 questions and 45 minutes (IRCC, study for the test). You get a warning when 5 minutes are left, and at 45 minutes the test submits itself. The timer keeps running if you are disconnected or close the test by mistake, so do not pause to troubleshoot unless you have to.
Your invitation gives you 30 days to take the online test, and you have 3 chances to pass (IRCC, how the test works).
If something goes wrong
- Disconnected: use your most recent test link as soon as you can. The timer does not stop while you are offline.
- Webcam will not connect, or shows black or static: close other apps, refresh or restart, or try another device. If you cannot get back within 45 minutes, email the address in your invitation with your application number and UCI.
- No test link: check your spam folder, add notifications@ct-tc.apps.cic.gc.ca to your safe senders, turn off any VPN and request a new link.
If a test has to be rescheduled, IRCC says it usually takes 4 to 8 weeks and may take longer.
Your result
The score you see at the end of an online test is temporary. An officer reviews it before it becomes official, which IRCC says can take a few days or a few weeks. There is no confirmation email and you cannot sign in to see it again, so print the results page or email it to yourself using the buttons on it (IRCC, test results).
Read what happens after you pass the citizenship test for the next steps, or what happens if you fail if it does not go your way.
Frequently asked questions
Can I take the online citizenship test on my phone?
No. IRCC says not to use a mobile phone. Use a desktop computer, laptop or tablet with a webcam.
Which browsers work for the online test?
Chrome or Safari. IRCC also says not to use Chrome on an iPad.
Do I need to be in Canada to take the online test?
No. IRCC states you do not need to be in Canada.
Can I pause the test?
No. The 45-minute timer cannot be paused, and it keeps running if you disconnect.
When do I get my official result?
After an officer reviews it, which can take a few days or a few weeks.
Practise under a 45-minute timer before the real thing. Start a free practice test.