The option to take the Canadian citizenship test online was introduced during the pandemic and has since become a permanent part of IRCC's testing infrastructure. If you've been invited to take the test online—or if you're wondering whether you might—here's exactly what the process looks like from start to finish.
Online Test at a Glance
Same format as in-person: 20 multiple-choice questions, 30 minutes, 75% to pass. Taken through a secure IRCC portal. Proctored via webcam. You cannot choose between online and in-person—IRCC assigns the format.
Who Gets the Online Test?
IRCC determines whether you take the test online or in person. You don't get to choose. The decision is based on several factors, including your location, the availability of in-person testing centres, and IRCC's current scheduling capacity.
Generally, applicants in remote areas or regions with limited testing centre availability are more likely to be offered the online option. However, applicants in major cities have also received online test invitations, especially during periods of high demand.
Technical Requirements
Before your test date, make sure you have:
- A computer (desktop or laptop) with a working webcam and microphone. Tablets and phones are generally not accepted.
- A stable internet connection. Wired connections are more reliable than Wi-Fi, but either will work as long as the connection is stable. Aim for at least 5 Mbps download speed.
- A supported web browser. IRCC will specify which browsers are compatible. Chrome and Edge are typically supported.
- A quiet, private room. You must be alone during the test. No one else can be visible or audible in your testing space.
- A clean desk or workspace. Remove all books, notes, phones, and other materials from your desk. You may be asked to show your workspace to the proctor via your webcam.
Test the Technology in Advance
IRCC typically provides a link to test your setup before the actual test day. Use it. Check your camera, microphone, internet speed, and browser compatibility well before your scheduled time. Technical issues on test day can be stressful and, in some cases, may require rescheduling.
What Happens on Test Day
Before the Test
Log into the IRCC portal at least 15 minutes before your scheduled time. You'll go through an identity verification process:
- Show your face to the camera
- Hold up your identification documents (PR card, photo ID) for the proctor to verify
- Show your workspace by slowly panning your camera around the room
- Confirm that you're alone and have no prohibited materials
During the Test
Once verified, you'll see the 20 questions on your screen. The format is identical to the in-person test: multiple choice with four options per question. A timer shows your remaining time.
Rules during the test:
- Stay visible on camera at all times
- Don't leave the camera frame
- Don't talk or read questions aloud
- Don't use any external resources (phones, notes, other screens)
- Don't have anyone else in the room
If the proctor detects a violation, your test may be paused, flagged, or invalidated.
After the Test
When you finish (or when time expires), you'll submit your answers and receive a confirmation. Results are typically available through your IRCC account within a few days. If you pass, you'll be invited to a citizenship ceremony. If you fail, IRCC will schedule a second attempt.
Tips for Online Test Success
- Test your setup the day before. Check camera, microphone, and internet. Install any required software in advance.
- Use a wired internet connection if possible. Wi-Fi can be unreliable at the worst possible moment.
- Close all other programs and browser tabs. This prevents notifications from popping up and reduces the chance of technical issues.
- Have your ID ready. You'll need to show it to the camera during verification. Have it within arm's reach.
- Choose a quiet time and place. Tell household members not to interrupt. Turn off doorbells if possible. Close windows to reduce outside noise.
- Don't try to cheat. The proctoring system monitors eye movements, audio, and other indicators. Any suspicious activity can result in test invalidation.
Online vs. In-Person: Which Is Better?
From a test difficulty standpoint, they're identical. The questions are the same, the time limit is the same, and the pass mark is the same. The main differences are practical:
- Convenience: No travel to a testing centre
- Comfort: You're in your own space
- Technology risk: Internet issues or computer problems could disrupt your test
- Proctoring: Some people feel more anxious being watched on camera than in a room full of other test-takers
Neither format gives you an advantage. Focus on studying the material rather than worrying about the test format.
Online Practice Tests
If you want to simulate the online test experience, try our free Canadian citizenship practice test. It's browser-based, timed, and gives you instant results with answer explanations—similar to what you'll experience during the real online test.
Taking practice tests on a computer is especially good preparation if you've been invited to take the test online, since you'll get comfortable with reading questions on screen and clicking answers rather than using a paper answer sheet.