Cracker

Is an individual allowed to reside/work (earn) abroad while waiting for their citizenship application to process (while keeping the 2 out of 5 years permanent residency rule)?

Siouxie

The 2 out of 5 rule has nothing to do with Citizenship - to get Citizenship adults must have resided in Canada for at least three years (1,095 days) in the past four years before applying.

Would you be able to satisfy that requirement if you worked abroad?

hobbes_sarkar

Yes, it is possible in theory to stay abroad while citizenship application is in process. However, given the current processing times for citizenship applications, there is a real chance of not being able to fulfill the 2/5 rule. And if you get an RQ, it is almost certain you won't be able to fulfill the residency obligations.

Zoe Bell

There have been a few threads on this recently
Main issue seems to be short notice given for test and oath
Could be as little as two weeks
By the time you realse you need to come back , could be cutting it fine

alexbellamy

I could be in the situation where I can apply for citizenship but will be relocated by my employer to the USA branch. So I will be able to pass the 2 in 5 rule (working for a Canadian company overseas) so its good to know we should still be able to apply as citizens too. As long as we can get back at short notice.

Aviator

However as has been said, the 2 our of 5 rule is for PR, citizenship is 3 out of the preceding 4. You may also have to attend the test and interview at one weeks notice (usually not together).

alexbellamy

Sure which is two years from now for us. Around the time the company is saying we may have to move.

Cracker

Yes, I have already been in Canada for the required 1095 days as a permanent resident. I applied for citizenship in January 2013.

My original question was: can I earn abroad during the nearly 2 year waiting time for citizenship processing?

Also, if I am required to submit a residential questionnaire; can I mail it from abroad (if a Canadian friend sends it to me)? What other items might Immigration Canada require during the citizenship process?

cnwk1980

FYI, if you get a RQ, you will have to give details of your absences since your arrival date to present. Not just for the 4 year period before you applied.

Cracker

Could I ask again: can I earn abroad while my citizenship application is being processed?

JAJ

What's wrong with the information you've been given? If you need something more specific, you should probably consult an immigration lawyer.

christmasoompa

Did this not answer your question? http://britishexpats.com/wiki/Canadi...ng_application

Cracker

Thank you for all the information and respondents. The above link is helpful, for sure. I guess, for me, it's the long wait for the citizenship paperwork processing and the potential of being offered a job abroad in the meantime.