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Canadian Citizenship Eligibility Calculator: Check Your Physical Presence

By Sarah Chen·7 min read·Updated 2026-05-15

Use our free eligibility calculator to check if you meet the physical presence requirement for Canadian citizenship.

One of the most important requirements for Canadian citizenship is physical presence — you must have been in Canada for at least 1,095 days (3 years) out of the 5 years before your application.

How the Calculator Works

Our eligibility checker uses three inputs:

  • Your PR date
  • Days you've been absent from Canada
  • Your current age
  • It then calculates how many days you've been in Canada and whether you meet the requirement.

    Understanding Physical Presence

    The 1,095-Day Rule

    You need 1,095 days (3 years) of physical presence in Canada within the 5-year period before your application.

    Time Before PR

    Days spent in Canada before becoming a PR (as a temporary resident) can count — but only at half value. For example, 200 days as a temporary resident = 100 days toward your requirement, up to a maximum of 365 days credit.

    What Counts as "Physical Presence"?

    You must be physically in Canada. Business travel, vacations, and time spent abroad don't count — even if you maintain a Canadian address.

    How to Track Your Days

    Keep a record of all your travels outside Canada. Save boarding passes, passport stamps, and travel itineraries. You'll need this information for your application.

    Tips for Managing Your Physical Presence

  • Track trips early: Start a spreadsheet of all travel outside Canada from the day you get PR
  • Be conservative: If you're unsure about exact dates, round up your absence days
  • Plan ahead: If you're close to 1,095 days, avoid unnecessary travel before applying
  • Ready to Check?

    Use our eligibility calculator — it takes 30 seconds.

    Ready to Start Preparing?

    Try our free practice tests or explore the full simulator.