IRCC Form CIT 0403: Fillable PDF

What is Form CIT 0403 used for

This form covers the less common minor route to citizenship. Most children apply under subsection 5(2) with Form CIT 0003 because they have a Canadian citizen parent. CIT 0403 exists for minors who do not qualify that way, for example children in care or children whose parents are not becoming citizens.

The application collects the child's personal and immigration history, details about the person applying on their behalf, and the declarations IRCC needs to assess a subsection 5(1) application from a minor.

Who files Form CIT 0403

The application is normally submitted by a parent, legal guardian, or another person or body with custody of the child, such as a child welfare agency. The instruction guide explains who qualifies to apply on a minor's behalf.

• The child must be a permanent resident of Canada and under 18 when IRCC receives the application.
• Subsection 5(1) requirements apply, including the physical presence requirement, although IRCC can waive some requirements for minors in certain circumstances described in the guide.
• Minors are not required to take the knowledge test or prove English or French ability.
• A minor who wants to apply without a parent or guardian can ask IRCC to waive the requirement that a person with custody submit the application.

How to fill out Form CIT 0403

Work through the form with the child's documents in front of you, since immigration dates, names, and identity numbers must match IRCC records. The person applying on the child's behalf completes their own sections and signs where indicated.

• Download the newest version of CIT 0403 from the IRCC forms page before you start, as outdated versions can be returned.
• Open the file in Adobe Acrobat Reader on a desktop or laptop so the dynamic form loads instead of the placeholder page.
• Record the child's time in and out of Canada accurately, and use the IRCC physical presence calculator if the presence requirement applies to your situation.
• If you are requesting a waiver of any requirement, follow the guide on how to ask for it and what evidence to include.
• Because this route involves judgment calls about waivers and custody, a licensed immigration consultant (RCIC) or a lawyer is worth considering before you file.

Filing tips

Use the document checklist in the application package to assemble the supporting documents, and send everything together as one package to the address in the instruction guide.

• Include custody or guardianship documents that prove the applicant's authority to act for the child.
• Check the current fee on the IRCC fee list before paying, and include proof of payment as instructed.
• Include photos that meet the citizenship photo specifications if the checklist requires them.
• Keep copies of the full package and use trackable mail.