In a significant development, the Government of Canada has amended the Citizenship Act, effectively removing the first-generation limit for Canadian citizenship by descent in specific circumstances. This legislative change, enacted through Bill C-3, offers new pathways to citizenship for individuals born outside Canada to Canadian parents before December 15, 2025.
Key Facts
- Bill C-3 amends the Citizenship Act to remove the first-generation limit on citizenship by descent in certain cases.
- The changes apply to those born outside Canada to a Canadian parent prior to December 15, 2025.
- The Ontario Superior Court of Justice ruled the first-generation limit unconstitutional for many in December 2023.
- Eligibility extends to second-generation individuals whose Canadian parent met specific residency requirements.
- Individuals may renounce their Canadian citizenship if desired after the changes.
Breaking News Overview
The Government of Canada has passed Bill C-3, amending the Citizenship Act to remove the first-generation limit on Canadian citizenship by descent under certain conditions. This change took effect on December 15, 2025, marking a pivotal shift in how citizenship is granted to individuals born outside Canada to Canadian parents. This legislative move follows a 2023 decision by the Ontario Superior Court of Justice, which declared the existing first-generation limit unconstitutional for many, prompting the government to act.
Detailed Breakdown
Bill C-3 introduces significant amendments to the Citizenship Act, particularly concerning individuals born outside Canada. Previously, citizenship by descent was restricted to the first generation born abroad. With the new changes, individuals in the second generation or later may now claim Canadian citizenship, provided their Canadian parent was also born or adopted outside Canada and spent at least 1,095 days in Canada before the child’s birth. Additionally, those adopted abroad in the second generation or later before December 15, 2025, may apply for citizenship through a direct grant.
Who This Affects
The changes primarily impact individuals born outside Canada to Canadian parents who previously did not qualify for citizenship due to the first-generation limit. This includes second-generation Canadians and those adopted abroad. The amendment provides a pathway for these individuals to secure Canadian citizenship, provided certain residency criteria are met by their Canadian parent. For those who prefer not to hold Canadian citizenship following these changes, there is an option to renounce it.
Key Takeaways
The amendment to the Citizenship Act through Bill C-3 is a landmark change in Canadian immigration policy. It rectifies a limitation that has long affected individuals born outside Canada to Canadian parents. This legislative change not only aligns with the court’s ruling but also broadens the scope for individuals seeking Canadian citizenship. The government has provided a clear framework for eligibility, ensuring that those affected by this change understand their new rights and options.
What This Means
The passage of Bill C-3 heralds a new era for Canadian citizenship policies. By removing the first-generation limit, Canada expands its inclusivity for individuals with Canadian roots born abroad. This legislative change is expected to enhance the sense of belonging and connection to Canada for many individuals previously excluded by the old rules. The potential increase in citizenship applications could also influence demographic trends and strengthen Canada’s global community ties.