Chapter CP 4 - Grants

Section 6 - Assessing language and knowledge—oral interview

6.1 This section is about

• the oral interview for applicants who fail the written test.

6.2 Authorities

6.3 Purpose

The oral interview for applicants who fail the written test assesses:

• the applicant's ability to communicate in English or in French
• the applicant's knowledge of Canada and the responsibilities and privileges of citizenship.

6.4 Use for residence

If the applicant is also a residence and/or prohibition case, deal with residence and/or prohibition in the same interview.

6.5 Interview is new test

The oral interview is a new test of the applicant's language and knowledge capabilities.

Keep the applicant's failed written test in his or her file.

6.6 Verify identity

Verify the applicant's identity before beginning the oral interview.

See Verifying identity.

Notifying applicants

6.7 Notifying applicants

Send the applicant a notice of the oral interview, by regular mail, at least 14 days before the interview date. Note: You must notify applicants about the interview at least a week before the date of the test. Mailing notices 14 days before the interview date ensures that applicants receive their notices a week before the interview date.

6.8 Include in notice

Include the following information in the notice:

• the time for the interview
• the place for the interview
• that the applicant will be appearing before a Citizenship judge for an oral interview
• the identification and supporting documents the applicant must bring to the interview
• why an oral interview is necessary.

6.9 If applicant doesn't appear for interview

If an applicant does not appear for a scheduled oral interview, see the procedures in Abandonment.

Procedure following oral interview

6.10 Applicant passes

An applicant qualifies for citizenship if he or she passes both the language and knowledge tests, and, if he or she meets all other requirements for citizenship.

6.11 Amend CARF

Put the results of the oral interview on the CARF (Citizenship Application Review Form). Shred the test when the applicant is granted citizenship.

6.12 Applicant fails

If the applicant fails the language and knowledge tests in the oral interview, put both the written test and the judge’s decision regarding the oral interview in the applicant's file.

6.12.1 Waiver

The citizenship judge must decide whether to recommend a waiver of the requirements if the applicant fails either or both the language and knowledge tests in the oral interview. See Waivers.