Canadian Citizenship Certificate: Who Qualifies, How to Apply & What’s Changing in 2025
The Canadian Citizenship Certificate is an official document issued by the Government of Canada that confirms proof of Canadian citizenship. While many Canadians may never need it, for those born outside Canada or those requiring legal proof for passports and benefits, this certificate is essential.
Here’s a full breakdown of eligibility, application process, exceptions, and upcoming major legal changes in 2025 that could impact thousands of people.
Who Can Apply for a Canadian Citizenship Certificate?
If you were born outside Canada and at least one parent (biological or legal) was:
- Born in Canada, OR
- Became a naturalized Canadian before your birth,
You are already considered a Canadian citizen by descent, and you can apply for a certificate as proof.
However, under the First-Generation Limit (FGL) rule:
- Only the first generation born abroad automatically qualifies.
- This means children of Canadians who were themselves born outside Canada do not automatically inherit citizenship.
Exceptions to the First-Generation Limit
Some individuals are exempt from the FGL rule. Children born abroad can still qualify if their parent or grandparent was working outside Canada at the time of birth in positions such as:
- Canadian Armed Forces
- Federal public administration
- Provincial/territorial public service
Upcoming Changes in 2025 – Bill C-3
Big news: The government is working on ending the FGL restriction for many Canadians.
- On March 13, 2025, interim measures were introduced allowing affected individuals to request a discretionary grant of citizenship if their Canadian parent had a substantial connection to Canada (at least 3 years of residence before the child’s birth).
- On June 5, 2025, Bill C-3 was introduced in Parliament. If passed:
- The FGL will be removed for children of parents meeting the substantial connection rule.
- This would automatically grant citizenship to thousands of so-called “lost Canadians.”
- The bill must still pass three readings, both houses of Parliament, and receive royal assent before becoming law.
How to Apply for a Citizenship Certificate
- Get the application package (instruction guide, checklist, forms).
- Prepare documents:
- Completed application form (CIT 0001)
- 2 government-issued IDs (one with photo)
- Photos meeting IRCC requirements
- Translations for non-English/French documents
- Supporting documents based on your situation
- Representative form (if using one)
- Pay the fee: $75 CAD per person (non-refundable).
- Submit application: Online or paper submission.
Processing time: At least 5 months (longer if applying outside Canada/US). Urgent processing is possible in special cases.
Who Does NOT Need a Citizenship Certificate?
- Children born in Canada (birth certificate = proof of citizenship, except children of diplomats).
- Naturalized Canadians (they automatically receive a certificate when citizenship is granted).
Why It Matters in 2025
- Thousands of people born abroad to Canadian parents may finally gain automatic citizenship if Bill C-3 becomes law.
- Families previously excluded due to the FGL could reunite under Canadian citizenship.
- The rules are changing rapidly—knowing your eligibility is crucial right now.
For a consultation about Immigration options, reach out to the CAD IMMIGRATION today!
