How many days do I need for Canadian citizenship?
You must be physically present in Canada for at least 1,095 days (3 years) during the 5 years immediately before you sign your application. You must also have filed taxes for 3 of those 5 years if required to.
Does time before permanent residence count?
Yes, partially. Time in Canada as a temporary resident or protected person before becoming a PR counts as one half day each, up to a maximum credit of 365 days.
Do days outside Canada count toward physical presence?
No. Only days you are physically inside Canada count. Trips abroad are subtracted. Keep a detailed travel history because IRCC verifies entries and exits.
Can I apply the moment I hit 1,095 days?
It is safer to apply with a buffer of extra days. IRCC recommends applying with more than the minimum in case a day is miscounted or a trip is later added, which could otherwise drop you below the threshold.