IRCC Office Ottawa: Citizenship Test Location, Hours & What to Know (2026)
Quick Answer
The IRCC Ottawa office is located at 200 Catherine Street, Ottawa, ON K2P 2K9. As the national capital, Ottawa hosts citizenship ceremonies and tests regularly. Arrive 30 minutes early with your test notice, PR card, and two pieces of photo ID.
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IRCC Ottawa Office: Your Complete Guide
Taking your Canadian citizenship test in the nation's capital? Here's everything you need to know about the IRCC Ottawa office, getting there, and what to expect.
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Office Location & Contact
Address: 200 Catherine Street, Ottawa, ON K2P 2K9
Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM (citizenship tests typically in the morning)
Note: You cannot walk in for a citizenship test. Tests are scheduled by IRCC and you will receive a test notice letter with your specific appointment time.
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Getting There
By Public Transit
- OC Transpo buses: Several routes serve the Catherine Street area
- O-Train Confederation Line: Lyon or Parliament stations are the closest, about a 10–15 minute walk south
- Check the OC Transpo trip planner for the best route from your location
By Car
- Metered street parking on Catherine Street and surrounding blocks ($3.50/hour)
- Paid lots nearby on Bank Street and along Catherine
- Budget $10–15 for 2–3 hours of parking
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What to Expect on Test Day
Before the Test
- Arrive 30 minutes early for check-in
- Bring your test notice letter, PR card, and two pieces of photo ID
- Leave electronic devices in your bag — they are not allowed in the test room
- You'll go through document verification before entering the test area
The Test
- 20 multiple-choice questions from the Discover Canada guide
- 30 minutes maximum
- You need 15 correct (75%) to pass
- Questions cover Canadian history, government, rights, symbols, geography, and economy
After the Test
- An IRCC officer may ask a few brief interview questions about your language skills
- Results are typically available the same day
- If you pass, expect your oath ceremony invitation within 1–6 months
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Taking Your Oath in Ottawa
There's something special about becoming a Canadian citizen in the nation's capital. Ottawa hosts regular oath ceremonies at the IRCC office, but also holds special ceremonies at iconic locations:
- Canada Day (July 1st): Mass citizenship ceremony on Parliament Hill — one of the most memorable ways to become a citizen
- Citizenship Week (October): Special ceremonies at the Canadian Museum of History and other venues
- Year-round: Regular ceremonies at the IRCC office or designated Ottawa venues
These special ceremonies are by invitation only, but if your timing works out, it can be an unforgettable experience.
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Ottawa-Specific Tips
- Bilingual environment: Ottawa is officially bilingual. You may see signs, forms, and hear announcements in both English and French. This is a great preview of Canada's bilingual nature.
- Security: Federal buildings in Ottawa have security screening. Allow extra time and bring minimal bags.
- Visit Parliament: If you have time before or after your test, the Parliament of Canada offers free guided tours — a perfect way to see Canadian government in action.
- Weather: Ottawa has hot summers and very cold winters (down to -25°C). Dress for the season, especially if walking from the O-Train.
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Key Facts
- Address: 200 Catherine Street, Ottawa, ON K2P 2K9
- Citizenship tests are usually held on weekday mornings between 9 AM and 12 PM
- Arrive at least 30 minutes before your scheduled test time
- OC Transpo buses serve the area; the O-Train Confederation Line is nearby
- Paid parking is available on surrounding streets and in nearby lots
- Bring your test notice letter, PR card, and two pieces of government-issued photo ID
- Ottawa hosts special citizenship ceremonies on Parliament Hill on Canada Day
- The test has 20 multiple-choice questions and takes up to 30 minutes
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the IRCC office in Ottawa?
The IRCC Ottawa office is at 200 Catherine Street, Ottawa, ON K2P 2K9. It is in the Centretown area, south of the downtown core, within walking distance of several bus routes and the O-Train.
What are the IRCC Ottawa office hours?
The IRCC Ottawa office is open Monday to Friday, typically from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Citizenship tests are usually scheduled in the morning. Your test notice letter will have your specific appointment time.
How do I get to the IRCC Ottawa office by transit?
Several OC Transpo bus routes stop near Catherine Street. The O-Train Confederation Line's closest station is Parliament or Lyon, approximately a 10–15 minute walk. Check OC Transpo's trip planner for the best route from your location.
Is there parking near the IRCC Ottawa office?
Yes, metered street parking is available on Catherine Street and surrounding blocks. There are also paid parking lots nearby. Rates vary but budget $10–15 for 2–3 hours. Street meters typically have 2-hour limits.
What should I bring to my citizenship test in Ottawa?
Bring: (1) your test notice letter from IRCC, (2) your Permanent Resident card, (3) two pieces of government-issued photo ID, and (4) your Confirmation of Permanent Residence (IMM 5292). No electronic devices are allowed in the test room.
Can I take my oath on Parliament Hill?
Special citizenship ceremonies are held on Parliament Hill on Canada Day (July 1st) and during Citizenship Week (October). These are by invitation only — IRCC selects participants. Regular oath ceremonies are held at the IRCC office or designated venues year-round.
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