How I Got to Call Canada Home: My 5-Year Immigration Journey to Canadian Citizenship

By Joba, 

Exactly one year ago today, I became a Canadian citizen, and what an exciting journey it’s been. On Christmas Day in 2018, I took a leap of faith and moved to Canada. Like many other immigrants, I was drawn to Canada for its diversity, quality of life, safety and immigration-friendly policies

**Disclaimer: This post is not legal or immigration advice. Please refer to the official Canadian Immigration site for updated policies and information.

The Decision to Move to Canada

The decision to move to Canada from Nigeria wasn’t an easy one. Deciding to leave my immediate family again after spending the better part of the previous four years completing my first degree in Hungary was bittersweet. I knew I was stepping into something bigger, but the uncertainty was overwhelming and unnerving.

My Immigration to Canada Timeline: Study Permit to Citizenship

If you’re wondering how long it takes to become a Canadian citizen, here’s a detailed look at my journey:

  • Dec 2018: Moved to Canada on a study permit 
  • Jan 2019 – Dec 2020: Full-time student & part-time explorer
  • Jan 2021: Received my post-graduate work permit
  • May 2021: Met the essential worker requirements for the TR to PR pathway
    • The TR to PR (Temporary Resident to Permanent Resident) pathway was a limited-time immigration program that allowed certain temporary residents in Canada to transition to permanent residency during the COVID-19 pandemic. The pathway is now closed.
  • Feb 2022: Became a permanent resident and booked my first international trip since COVID 
  • March 2024: Met the physical presence requirement (1,095 days), and applied for Canadian citizenship
  • June 2024: Took & passed the citizenship test – resources can be found here
  • July 2024: Attended my citizenship ceremony
  • August 2024: Received my Canadian passport 

Looking back, I was definitely very lucky to qualify for the TR to PR pathway that came up during COVID-19. While I know it is not the norm, the standard process to Canadian permanent residency still requires you to:

  • Have at least one year of full-time, paid, skilled work experience
  • Take an English Language proficiency test (CLB level 7+)
  • Meet residency obligations
  • Submit a complete application via IRCC
  • For other information, check here

Adjusting to Life in Canada as a New Immigrant

Those first years as a newcomer to Canada came with a lot of learning. Cultural norms, building a support system, and dealing with Canadian winters were all part of the experience. I slowly found my rhythm. As someone who’s always loved traveling, I explored different cities within Canada when international travel wasn’t an option and started to see Canada as home.

Travel Freedom After Canadian Citizenship: My Experience with Passport Privilege

Now with a Canadian passport, my ability to travel has changed so much. In the past year alone, I have visited six countries that had been on my list, visa-free, a luxury that I did not previously have. What they say about ‘passport privilege’ is real, but it should not stop you from exploring as much as you can.

Advice for Immigrants

  • Do your research: Check out your options, understand the process, and stay organized
  • Find your people: Community is everything. Having a solid support system can make all the difference
  • Embrace change: Moving to a new country is hard, but growth happens outside your comfort zone
  • Be patient: Immigration processes can feel long, but keep your eye on the prize

There are so many resources available to help newcomers, from settlement programs to online forums. The best place to start is the official IRCC site. 

Conclusion 

My five-year journey to Canadian citizenship is something I will always be proud of. While it hasn’t always been easy, I feel so blessed and wouldn’t trade it for anything. Canada has given me opportunities, friendships, and a new place to call home.

If you’re on a similar path, know that every challenge is a step closer to your goal. Stay determined, seek support, and trust the process, you’ll get there.

Have you gone through an immigration journey? I’d love to hear your story! Let’s connect on Instagram @PerfectPaths! 

Safe travels

Joba 

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