Global Rush for Second Citizenship Grows as Canada Expands Passport Eligibility
Rising Uncertainty Fuels Demand for Dual Nationality
As global mobility becomes increasingly unpredictable and geopolitical uncertainty continues to reshape travel and residency rules, demand for second citizenships is climbing rapidly. Individuals across the world are seeking alternative passports not just for convenience, but for long-term stability, freedom of movement, and personal security.
This trend is no longer limited to business leaders or frequent travelers. High-profile public figures have also embraced dual nationality, reinforcing the growing appeal of holding more than one passport. The shift reflects a broader global movement toward safeguarding future opportunities in an uncertain world.
Canada Responds With Landmark Citizenship Reform
In response to long-standing citizenship limitations, Canada has enacted a significant legislative change. On December 15, 2025, Bill C-3, an amendment to the Citizenship Act, officially came into force. This new law expands eligibility for Canadian citizenship by descent and removes barriers that previously prevented thousands of individuals from being recognized as Canadian citizens.
The amendment primarily addresses the first-generation limit, a rule introduced in 2009 that restricted citizenship by descent to only one generation born outside Canada.
Understanding the First-Generation Limit and Its Removal
Under the former rules, Canadian citizenship could only be passed to children born abroad if their parent was either born in Canada or became a citizen through naturalization. If the parent was also born outside Canada and obtained citizenship by descent, their child was excluded.
Bill C-3 eliminates this restriction for many individuals born or adopted abroad before December 15, 2025. As a result, people who were previously excluded due to generational limits may now qualify for Canadian citizenship.
This change has restored citizenship rights to thousands often referred to as “Lost Canadians.”
Who May Now Qualify for Canadian Citizenship
Individuals may now be eligible for Canadian citizenship by descent if they have a parent or grandparent who was born in Canada or became a Canadian citizen through naturalization.
Even if neither the applicant nor their parents were born in Canada, eligibility may still apply under the revised legislation. Each case depends on family history and the timing of birth or adoption.
Applying for Proof of Canadian Citizenship
Those who believe they qualify under Bill C-3 must apply for a proof of citizenship certificate through Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada.
Most applications are submitted online, although paper applications remain available in specific situations. Once approved, applicants receive a citizenship certificate, which allows them to apply for a Canadian passport without delay.
For applicants within Canada, passport processing can be completed in as little as 10 business days when applying in person, provided all requirements are met.
Canada’s Position on Dual Citizenship
Canada permits dual and multiple citizenships, allowing new citizens to retain their original nationality. However, this flexibility depends on the laws of the applicant’s country of origin.
Some countries, such as China, do not recognize dual nationality, while others like India require individuals to relinquish citizenship upon acquiring a foreign one. In contrast, countries such as the United States allow citizens to hold multiple nationalities.
Prospective applicants are advised to review their home country’s citizenship laws before proceeding.
Why the Canadian Passport Is Highly Valued
The Canadian passport consistently ranks among the world’s most powerful travel documents. It provides visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 181 destinations globally, surpassing several other major passports.
Beyond travel privileges, Canadian citizenship grants the right to live and work in Canada without restrictions, access public services, vote in elections, and participate fully in civic life.
As global interest in second passports accelerates, Canada’s updated citizenship framework positions the country as a leading destination for those seeking long-term security and global mobility.
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