(L – R) Russelle and Janelle Collantes, Winkler Mayor Henry Siemens, Citizenship Ceremony at Culturefest 2026
For many newcomers, becoming a Canadian citizen is the final step in a journey that may have taken years. Later this summer, Regional Connections Immigrant Services will begin offering new programming designed to help permanent residents reach that goal.
Executive Director Steve Reynolds says the organization’s new Pathways to Citizenship program will provide guidance for permanent residents interested in applying for Canadian citizenship.
“We’re really excited to be announcing with more information to come, but the Pathways to Citizenship program this year to support permanent residents who are interested in citizenship and need a little bit of support to get there.”
Reynolds says there are a number of reasons why interest in Canadian citizenship has grown in recent years.
“For a lot of people, it is a goal or a dream to not just come to Canada, but to become a Canadian citizen and to be here permanently and for their kids to be here permanently.”
He noted that immigration policy changes under different governments can create uncertainty even for permanent residents.
“We’ve seen, especially in the last couple of years here and in the United States, how much and how quickly an immigration system can change, and its policies can change under different governments.”
Reynolds says becoming a Canadian citizen offers newcomers greater long-term stability while also supporting their integration into Canadian communities.
The new program will include classes to help participants prepare for the Canadian citizenship test by working through the official study guide.
“We work through the study guide. It’s basic history, civics and understanding Canada and the rights and responsibilities of citizenship. And it helps prepare people for the test.”
Regional Connections also hopes to coordinate local citizenship ceremonies or community recognition events celebrating those who have recently become Canadian citizens.
Reynolds says the organization held a recognition ceremony during Winkler’s Canada Day Culture Fest this year and would like to organize more events in partnership with municipalities, employers and community organizations.
“It’s a really big day, a life-changing day for a lot of people. And so, to have some local recognition and celebration is really a great thing.”
To be eligible for Canadian citizenship, Reynolds says permanent residents generally must have lived in Canada for at least three of the previous five years, meet other eligibility requirements, and successfully pass the citizenship test.
Regional Connections plans to begin offering citizenship classes later this summer and continue them into the fall, while citizenship ceremonies are expected to take place during the fall and winter.
“So stay tuned for more or contact us anytime for more information.”
Regional Connections provides services in multiple communities in rural Manitoba.
Regional Connections has 15 locations throughout Manitoba offering a variety of services.
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