Canada’s New Citizenship Law Takes Effect: Thousands Now Eligible Through Ancestry
A major change to Canada’s citizenship law officially came into force on December 15, 2025, opening the door to Canadian citizenship for thousands of people worldwide who were previously excluded due to restrictive rules.
With the implementation of Bill C-3, Canada has removed long-standing limitations that prevented many individuals born outside the country from inheriting citizenship. As a result, a large group commonly referred to as “lost Canadians” has now automatically gained eligibility for citizenship.
What Changed Under Bill C-3?
Bill C-3 amends Canada’s Citizenship Act by reforming how citizenship by descent is passed down to children born outside Canada.
Previously, Canadian citizenship by descent was limited to the first generation born abroad. This meant that if a Canadian citizen had also been born outside Canada and later had a child abroad, that child could not inherit citizenship—regardless of family history.
This restriction applied between April 17, 2009, and December 14, 2025, and affected many families across generations.
As of December 15, 2025, this rule has been abolished.
Who Is Now Eligible for Canadian Citizenship?
Under the new law, individuals may qualify for Canadian citizenship if:
- At least one parent was a Canadian citizen at the time of birth or adoption, or
- In some cases, at least one grandparent was a Canadian citizen
Anyone who was previously excluded solely because of the first-generation limit and was born before December 15, 2025, is now recognized as a Canadian citizen by descent.
This change has restored citizenship status to thousands who were previously denied recognition under Canadian law.
New Rules for Future Generations Born Abroad
For children born on or after December 15, 2025, citizenship by descent will still be available—but with an added requirement.
If the Canadian parent is themselves a citizen by descent, they must demonstrate a “substantial connection to Canada.” This means the parent must have spent at least 1,095 days physically present in Canada before the child’s birth or adoption.
This provision aims to balance inclusivity with maintaining a genuine connection to Canada.
How to Confirm and Prove Your Citizenship
Although eligibility may be automatic for many, most individuals will still need to apply for official proof of Canadian citizenship.
The application process requires:
- Submission of documents proving lineage and eligibility
- Payment of a $75 government processing fee
- An online application submission
Current processing times for proof of citizenship applications are approximately nine months.
Once proof of citizenship is issued, eligible individuals can then apply for a Canadian passport.
Rights Gained Through Canadian Citizenship
Canadian citizenship provides significant rights and privileges, including:
- The right to live and work anywhere in Canada
- The ability to enter Canada without restrictions
- The right to vote in federal and provincial elections
- Eligibility to run for public office
For many families, this law represents not just a legal correction, but the restoration of identity and belonging.
For a consultation about Immigration options, reach out to the CAD IMMIGRATION today!
