When you become a permanent resident to Nova Scotia, you are entitled to the same rights as everyone else living here with a few exceptions, such as the right to vote in federal elections.

Your legal rights, human rights and privileges of living here are automatically given to you when you arrive.

To become a Canadian citizen (and qualify for a Canadian passport), you must: 

• be 18 years of age or older;
• be a permanent resident of Canada;
• have lived in Canada for at least three of the four years before applying;
• be able to communicate in either English or French;
• know about Canada; and
• know about the rights and responsibilities of citizenship.

There are many steps and requirements involved with the Citizenship process. See the Government of Canada's Citizenship and Immigration website for complete details.