Canadian Citizenship Test Online: Rules, Webcam Setup and What Happens If You Disconnect
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Short answer
IRCC's online citizenship test is taken alone on a desktop, laptop or tablet with a webcam, using Chrome or Safari, with no other tabs, devices or study materials. You need your PR card (even expired) or valid photo ID with a signature. If you disconnect, the 45-minute timer keeps running, so return right away with your most recent test link.
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IRCC says you must take the test on a desktop computer, laptop or tablet that has a webcam, using the Chrome or Safari browser. Do not use a mobile phone, Chrome on an iPad, a Microsoft Surface Pro, or a VPN. You don't need to be in Canada, and IRCC says a public library or public computer is fine.
Before you start, turn on your webcam with your face fully visible, close every other tab, window and program, and make sure your internet connection is reliable. Choose a room with good lighting and nothing in the background that shows your personal information, such as a diploma on the wall.
| Allowed | Not allowed |
|---|---|
| Desktop, laptop or tablet with a webcam | Mobile phone |
| Chrome or Safari | Chrome on an iPad; Microsoft Surface Pro |
| Public library or public computer | VPN turned on |
| Religious or traditional clothing, head coverings, reading or prescription glasses (face clearly visible) | Other tabs, windows, programs or devices |
| Taking the test from outside Canada | Study materials, other people, or the browser's back button |
ID and the photos taken at sign-in
You sign in with your application number and unique client identifier (UCI), then ask for a test link by email. The link expires after 15 minutes, and if you request it more than once, use the latest one.
Have your permanent resident card ready (an expired one is accepted) or another valid, unexpired ID with your photo and signature, such as a driver's licence or health card. The system photographs your ID and your face before the test starts. Retake any blurry photo before you approve it: once the test has started you can't retake it, and IRCC says unclear photos may make your result invalid.
During the test, the webcam takes random photos to confirm it is you and that you are working alone. IRCC compares them with your sign-in photo and your application photos, and you must stay in the same place where you took your ID photo.
The test itself: 20 questions, 45 minutes
The test has 20 multiple-choice or true/false questions in English or French, based on the official study guide, Discover Canada. You need at least 15 correct (75%) to pass. The timer can't be paused, you get a warning at 5 minutes left, and the test submits itself automatically at 45 minutes.
Your invitation, sent by email as a PDF, gives a 30-day window. You can sit the test any time in that window, including weekends and holidays, and you get up to 3 attempts. You can't sign in before the start date, after the end date, or after you submit.
The score you see right after submitting is temporary. An IRCC officer reviews it to make it official, which can take a few days or a few weeks. You won't get a confirmation email and can't sign back in to see the score, so print or email the results page before you close it.
If your internet drops or your webcam fails
If you get disconnected or close the test by mistake, go back right away using the most recent test link. If that link has expired, sign in again and request a new one. The 45-minute timer keeps running while you are away, and if time runs out the system submits the answers you had selected.
If your webcam won't connect or shows a black or static image, try another device. If you can't get back in within 45 minutes, email the address on your invitation with what happened, whether you can use a different device, your application number and your UCI. IRCC says rescheduling usually takes 4 to 8 weeks but may take longer.
A test can be invalidated for technical problems or signs of cheating. In that case IRCC follows up and asks you to take it again, and depending on the situation you may be asked to do an interview with an officer or retake the test by videoconference.
Rehearse before test day
A technical problem can cost you weeks, so do a dry run: same device, same browser, same room, VPN off, and a 45-minute timer. Our free Canadian citizenship practice test uses timed sets of 20 original questions so you can practise the pace, and full practice banks are on our pricing page. Aim well above 15 out of 20 before you click Start.
Questions people ask
Can I take the Canadian citizenship test on my phone?
No. IRCC says not to use a mobile phone. Use a desktop computer, laptop or tablet with a webcam and the Chrome or Safari browser. Chrome on an iPad and the Microsoft Surface Pro can't be used.
What happens if my internet disconnects during the citizenship test?
Return as soon as possible using your most recent test link, or sign in again and request a new link if it has expired. The 45-minute timer does not stop, and if it runs out, IRCC's system submits the answers you had selected.
Can I use notes or have someone in the room?
No. You must take the test alone, with no study materials, no other devices and no other tabs or programs open. The webcam takes random photos to check that you are working alone, and signs of cheating can make the test invalid.
Can I take the online citizenship test outside Canada?
Yes. IRCC says you don't need to be in Canada to take the online test. The device, browser, ID and no-VPN rules still apply.
What if I miss my online test window?
If it is the first invitation you missed, IRCC automatically sends a new invitation with a new 30-day period and 3 more chances. If you miss a second invitation, email the rescheduling address with an explanation; if you miss twice and don't contact IRCC, your application is abandoned.
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