Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has introduced eight comprehensive accessibility instructions that fundamentally change how citizenship applicants with disabilities navigate the naturalization process. These updates, effective December 2, 2025, ensure equal access throughout every stage of the citizenship journey.
This guide explains everything you need to know about requesting accommodations, understanding your rights, and successfully completing your Canadian citizenship application with the support you need.
What Changed in December 2025?
IRCC activated new accommodation instructions that apply across all citizenship stages: testing, hearings, ceremonies, documentation requirements, interpreter services, and guardianship procedures. The updated framework operates under subsection 5(3.1) of the Citizenship Act, mandating that staff provide reasonable accommodations at any point in the application process.
These changes strengthen procedural fairness while clarifying exactly how citizenship officers should handle accommodation requests, interpretation needs, and compassionate waivers for applicants who cannot meet standard requirements.
Understanding Your Rights as an Applicant
Canadian citizenship law now explicitly recognizes that applicants may request accessibility supports whenever needed during the application process. You don’t need to request all accommodations upfront—you can identify additional needs as they arise.
IRCC staff must document your accommodation requirements in case notes and ensure every subsequent interaction reflects those needs. This creates continuity throughout your file and prevents you from repeatedly explaining your situation to different officers.
The accommodation framework covers physical disabilities, sensory impairments, learning differences, mental health conditions, literacy barriers, and language needs. If standard procedures create barriers for you, accommodations should be available.
The 8 New Accessibility Instructions Explained
1. Expanded Citizenship Test Accessibility
The citizenship knowledge test now offers multiple formats tailored to individual needs. Applicants can request one-on-one oral tests administered by citizenship officers, large-print versions for visual impairments, or Braille materials for blind applicants.
Sign language interpretation is available for deaf applicants, and extended time accommodations support those with ADHD, test anxiety, learning disabilities, or medical conditions that affect processing speed or concentration.
The updated policy gives applicants three attempts to pass the knowledge test before referral to a hearing. When accommodations cannot reasonably address an applicant’s limitations, officers may consider compassionate waivers that exempt the person from testing requirements entirely.
Action Step: When you receive your test invitation, contact IRCC immediately if you need accommodations. Officers will discuss available options, confirm the specific supports you require, and schedule your test accordingly.
2. Specialized Test Format Procedures
IRCC has standardized procedures for delivering alternative test formats. Braille test takers receive 90 minutes or more as needed to complete the assessment and may use personal Braille typewriters during the examination.
For oral tests, citizenship officers must read questions exactly as written without paraphrasing or interpreting. Officers record answers verbatim to maintain consistency and fairness across all test administrations.
Large-print tests use enlarged fonts and high-contrast formatting to improve readability for applicants with low vision or visual processing difficulties.
Important: If you request accommodation after receiving an online test invitation, your local IRCC office will still arrange the necessary support. Your test will be rescheduled to provide adequate time for preparation.
3. Knowledge and Language Hearing Accommodations
Hearings serve as an alternative assessment method for applicants who cannot complete written tests even with accommodations. The updated instructions expand accessibility measures during these proceedings.
Hearing accommodations include physically accessible meeting environments, sign language interpreters positioned where deaf applicants can clearly see them, and the option to reschedule if an interpreter fails to provide faithful interpretation.
Officers conduct case-by-case assessments to determine whether a compassionate waiver is appropriate when accommodations still cannot address an applicant’s limitations. These waivers recognize that some disabilities prevent participation in traditional assessment methods regardless of support measures.
Key Point: Taking an oral test counts as one of your three test attempts. Oral tests are accommodations for the standard test format, not replacements for formal hearings.
4. Ceremony Accessibility Standards
Citizenship ceremonies now include comprehensive accessibility provisions ensuring every new citizen can fully participate in this milestone event.
Physical accommodations include reserved first-row seating for wheelchair users and applicants with mobility limitations. Sign language interpreters stand in visible positions where deaf participants can easily follow the proceedings.
The oath of citizenship is available in large-print, Braille, and audio formats. Applicants who cannot vocalize the oath due to speech impairments may use alternative responses including nodding, blinking, or other physical gestures. Private ceremonies accommodate those unable to participate in group settings.
For applicants who cannot physically sign the oath form, IRCC accepts an X mark or other signature, or officers will annotate the form when signing is impossible.
Ceremony Tip: Notify IRCC of any ceremony accommodations when you receive your ceremony notice. This ensures proper arrangements are made before the scheduled date.
5. Accompanying Person Policy
Applicants may bring accompanying persons to provide emotional or physical support throughout the citizenship process. Accompanying persons complete form CIT 0117 before participating in any proceedings.
The updated policy specifies that accompanying persons generally cannot have active citizenship applications themselves unless excluding them would create undue hardship for the applicant. This prevents conflicts of interest while recognizing that some applicants depend on family members who are also pursuing citizenship.
Accompanying persons may attend identity verification, instructional sessions, and certain assessment stages depending on the applicant’s disability-related needs. Citizenship judges and officers evaluate requests by considering factors like travel costs, applicant disability severity, and whether alternative support is available.
Officers must stop proceedings if an accompanying person begins translating for the applicant, becomes disruptive, or provides answers on behalf of the applicant. All decisions regarding accompanying persons require documentation in the Global Case Management System (GCMS).
6. Interpreter Qualification Requirements
IRCC has established clear standards for who may serve as an interpreter during citizenship processes. These requirements protect applicants by ensuring interpretation quality and preventing conflicts of interest.
Qualified interpreters must be at least 18 years old, demonstrate strong proficiency in English or French, and sign the Interpreter’s Oath (form CIT 0117). Interpreters generally cannot have citizenship applications in progress unless exclusion would cause undue hardship.
IRCC uses the Language Assessment Tool for Interpreters (LATI) to formally evaluate interpreter language ability. If an interpreter fails this assessment, misinterprets information, or disrupts proceedings, officers will end the session and reschedule with a qualified interpreter.
Exception: ASL (American Sign Language) and LSQ (Langue des signes québécoise) interpreters are always permitted for deaf applicants, including during knowledge hearings. Professional sign language interpreters meet a critical accessibility need that cannot be waived.
7. Procedures for Applicants Unable to Act Independently
Some applicants cannot understand the legal significance of becoming a Canadian citizen due to mental disabilities. The updated instructions detail how these cases are managed to protect applicants’ interests.
All such applicants require a legal guardian who provides proof of guardianship through court orders, power of attorney documents, or affidavits. IRCC may request Medical Opinion Form CIT 0547 to document the applicant’s cognitive limitations.
Officers must ensure applicants understand that acquiring Canadian citizenship may affect other citizenships they hold or impact succession rights in their country of origin. When applicants cannot comprehend the oath of citizenship, officers cannot administer it and must instead refer the case for a compassionate waiver.
Minors aged 14 and older do not require guardianship affidavits but must still meet all citizenship requirements unless waived on compassionate grounds.
Guardian Responsibilities: Guardians sign forms on behalf of the applicant, represent them in proceedings, and request waivers when standard requirements cannot be met.
8. Affidavit and Declaration Procedures
IRCC has clarified procedures for taking affidavits, affirmations, and declarations from applicants requiring additional support. These updates ensure applicants understand any documents they sign while maintaining legal validity.
Visually impaired applicants receive documents in large print or Braille, or officers read documents aloud while the applicant follows along. Applicants with literacy limitations must have all documents read and explained to them before signing.
When interpreters assist with affidavits, they must be formally sworn in before beginning. Only authorized officers, citizenship judges, notaries public, and commissioners for taking affidavits may administer oaths inside or outside Canada.
All procedures follow the Canada Evidence Act to ensure legal compliance and protect applicants from unknowingly signing documents they don’t understand.
How to Request Accommodations
Step 1: Identify Your Needs
Consider what barriers you might face during testing, hearings, or ceremonies. Think about physical access, communication needs, processing time, sensory requirements, and any support persons or equipment you require.
Step 2: Notify IRCC Early
Contact IRCC as soon as possible after submitting your application or receiving correspondence about upcoming steps. Early notification allows officers adequate time to arrange accommodations.
Step 3: Provide Documentation
While you don’t always need medical documentation upfront, IRCC may request supporting documents depending on the accommodation type. Medical opinion forms, disability assessments, or professional recommendations help officers understand your needs.
Step 4: Confirm Arrangements
Before your scheduled test, hearing, or ceremony, confirm that IRCC has arranged the requested accommodations. This prevents last-minute surprises and ensures you can fully participate.
Step 5: Request Changes If Needed
If your needs change or arranged accommodations prove inadequate, immediately contact IRCC. You can request additional or different accommodations at any point in the process.
Understanding Compassionate Waivers
Compassionate waivers exempt applicants from standard requirements when disabilities prevent participation even with accommodations. Officers evaluate waiver requests by considering the nature and severity of the disability, whether accommodations can reasonably address limitations, and whether the requirement is essential to citizenship eligibility.
Waivers may apply to knowledge testing, language requirements, or oath administration. Each waiver request receives individual assessment based on the applicant’s specific circumstances.
Important: Compassionate waivers are not automatic. Officers must balance accessibility with maintaining the integrity of citizenship requirements.
Tips for a Smooth Citizenship Process
Communicate proactively: Don’t wait for IRCC to ask about accommodation needs. Volunteer information about barriers you anticipate facing.
Keep documentation organized: Maintain copies of all accommodation requests, confirmation letters, and supporting medical documents in a dedicated file.
Test accommodations beforehand: If possible, practice with the accommodation format before your official test or hearing. This reduces anxiety and helps you perform your best.
Bring backup support: If you rely on assistive devices or medications, bring backups to appointments in case of equipment failure or unexpected delays.
Know your rights: Familiarize yourself with the accommodation options available under the new instructions so you can advocate effectively for your needs.
Common Questions About Citizenship Accommodations
Can I request accommodations after my application is already in process?
Yes. The new instructions explicitly state that applicants may request accommodations at any point during the citizenship journey. IRCC will work with you to provide supports even if you didn’t identify needs initially.
Will requesting accommodations delay my application?
Arranging accommodations may require additional processing time, particularly for specialized formats like Braille materials or interpreter scheduling. However, IRCC prioritizes accessibility and works to minimize delays while ensuring proper support.
What happens if my requested accommodation isn’t available?
IRCC will discuss alternative accommodations that address your needs. If no reasonable accommodation can enable your participation, officers may consider a compassionate waiver.
Can family members serve as interpreters?
Family members may serve as interpreters if they meet qualification requirements (age 18+, strong English or French skills, no active citizenship application) and pass the LATI assessment. However, professional interpreters are often preferable to avoid conflicts of interest.
How do I prove I need accommodations?
Documentation requirements vary by accommodation type. Some requests may be granted based on your explanation alone, while others require medical opinion forms or professional assessments. IRCC will inform you if documentation is needed.
Are accommodations available for online citizenship tests?
Online tests present unique challenges for some accommodations. If you need accommodations incompatible with the online format, IRCC will arrange an alternative testing method such as an in-person oral test.
Resources and Next Steps
IRCC Website: Visit canada.ca/citizenship for official information about the citizenship program and accommodation options.
Application Forms: Download form CIT 0117 (Interpreter’s Oath and Accompanying Person form) and CIT 0547 (Medical Opinion Form) from the IRCC website.
Contact IRCC: Call 1-888-242-2100 (within Canada) or email using the web form at canada.ca/contact-ircc to discuss your specific accommodation needs.
Legal Assistance: Consider consulting an immigration lawyer if you have complex accommodation needs or concerns about compassionate waiver eligibility.
Conclusion: Citizenship Access for All Canadians
The eight new accessibility instructions represent Canada’s commitment to ensuring that citizenship is attainable for all eligible applicants regardless of disability. By expanding accommodation options, clarifying procedures, and strengthening procedural fairness, IRCC has created a more inclusive naturalization process.
If you’re pursuing Canadian citizenship and face barriers due to disability, language, or literacy limitations, these new instructions empower you to request the support you need. Don’t hesitate to advocate for accommodations—they’re your right under Canadian law.
The path to citizenship should be accessible to everyone who qualifies. With these updated policies in place, IRCC has taken significant steps toward making that principle a reality.
