Citizenship tests set to resume online after 8-month suspension

The immigration department is resuming citizenship tests that were put on hold more than eight months ago due to the global pandemic, with safeguards in placeto ensure proper identification of those taking the tests online.

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) is launching a new virtual platform today for the citizenship tests, which will be offered onlineto a smallgroup at firstthe roughly5,000 people who had dates scheduled before the pandemic that were subsequently cancelled, and other priority cases.

IRCC said the platform will be tested over the next few monthsand more people will be invited to use it likelyearly in the new year after performance monitoring provesit works reliably.

Before beginning the test, participants willbe asked to confirm their identity throughpersonal information, and they will have to take a photo of themselves and their ID documents with a webcam before the test can begin.

The system will take photos ofparticipantsduring the test a process that has been used to ensure the integrity ofothertests that moved online due to the pandemic, such asbar exams or law school admissions tests.

20 questions, 30 minutes

The format of the online test will be the same as the in-person test, with20 questions and 30 minutes to complete them.

IRCC said in a notice provided to CBCnews thatthat people do not need to reach out to the department thoseinvited to take the online test will be notified by email.

People can also wait to take the test in-person, but no date has beenset yet for resumingthat process.

IRCCcancelled all citizenship tests,re-tests, hearings and interviews on March 14due to the pandemic. Citizenship ceremonies were also halted at that timebut have resumed sinceas virtual events.

Before COVID-19 struck, acitizenship modernization program was in the works that included plans for online tests.

Lives in limbo

Today's development likely willcome aswelcome newsto thousands of newcomers whose lives were inlimbo because of the suspension.

All citizenship applicants aged 18 to 54 must pass the test to becomeCanadian citizens. Citizenship allows a newcomer the right to vote and obtain a passport, and also gives many a sense of security and permanence.

Many argued that if schools and universities can operate virtually,citizenship tests should be offered online as well.But some lawyers have warned that an online process could allow people to cheat the system.

IRCC says people can take the test wheneverit'sconvenient for them, while offering the test onlinewillhelp to prevent the spread of COVID-19 by limiting in-person gatherings.