On March 9, 2026, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) published updated citizenship test instructions that formalize a major shift: the self-administered online test is now the default method for all applicants aged 18 to 54.
What Changed?
The key updates include:
- Online testing is now standard — The days of mandatory in-person written exams are officially over. IRCC has made the online, self-administered format the permanent default.
- 45-minute time limit — IRCC has officially expanded the time limit from the old 30-minute standard to 45 minutes for the 20-question test.
- Three attempts allowed — Applicants now have up to three attempts to pass online, up from the previous two. If all three are failed, you'll be referred to a citizenship hearing with an officer.
- Enhanced proctoring review — Your online test score is temporary until IRCC reviews identity verification and proctoring data. If issues are found, you may be asked to retake the test.
Who Still Takes In-Person Tests?
In-person tests and Microsoft Teams tests are still available for:
- Applicants with accommodation needs
- Those experiencing technical problems
- Individuals requiring identity verification
- Cases where an officer decides it's necessary
For in-person and Teams tests, only one attempt per event is allowed.
How to Prepare for the Online Test
The online format means you take the test from home on your own device. Here's how to prepare effectively:
- Study the Discover Canada guide — This is the official source material. Read it thoroughly at least twice.
- Practice with timed tests — Use a 20-question mock test with a 45-minute timer to simulate real conditions.
- Focus on weak areas — After each practice test, review your wrong answers. Our chapter-by-chapter study mode helps you master each topic individually.
- Try the exam simulator — Our Exam Simulator replicates the exact format: 20 questions, 45 minutes, 75% to pass.
- Ensure a stable internet connection — Since the test is online, a reliable connection is essential.
The Test Format
The online citizenship test consists of:
- 20 multiple-choice questions
- 45 minutes to complete
- 15 correct answers (75%) needed to pass
- Questions drawn from a database of 300-400 questions balanced by topic and difficulty
The best way to prepare is consistent practice. Start practicing now with our free 226+ question bank, or upgrade to Pro for access to 1,000+ questions with French translations and detailed explanations.
Source: IRCC updated citizenship test instructions published March 9, 2026. Official information available at canada.ca.