Unlocking Your Heritage: Canada Expands Citizenship by Descent Eligibility
- Stephen First
- Jan 17
- 2 min read
Canada has taken a historic step to broaden the pathway to citizenship for individuals with Canadian ancestry. Recent legislative changes have significantly expanded eligibility, opening doors for countless families worldwide to reclaim their Canadian heritage.
This blog post provides a clear overview of the key changes under the newly enforced Bill C-3 and what they mean for potential applicants.
Understanding the Change: Bill C-3
As of December 15, 2025, Bill C-3 is officially in force. This amendment to the Canadian Citizenship Act addresses a court ruling that deemed previous citizenship-by-descent laws unconstitutionally restrictive. The new law establishes two distinct eligibility pathways, determined by an applicant's date of birth.
Please note: Current processing times for a certificate of citizenship are approximately one year but are subject to change as application volumes are expected to increase significantly.
Pathway 1:
For Individuals Born or Adopted Before December 15, 2025
This change represents the most substantial expansion of rights.
Generational Limit Removed: Citizenship by descent is no longer limited to the first generation born abroad. If you have a Canadian citizen ancestor—be it a parent, grandparent, or even a great-great-grandparent—you may now be eligible.
Key Requirements:
You must provide documented proof of the familial connection (e.g., birth, marriage, and death certificates).
There is no requirement for you or your ancestor to have had a "substantial connection" to Canada.
Your ancestor could have held dual or multiple citizenships.
Inclusion of Family: While spouses cannot be included on the citizenship application, eligible spouses can be sponsored for Permanent Residence and subsequent citizenship. Children and grandchildren born before December 15, 2025, can be included directly on your application.
Pathway 2:
For Individuals Born or Adopted After December 15, 2025
For this group, the rules align with a more traditional model of citizenship by descent.
First-Generation Limit Applies: Eligibility is generally limited to children with at least one Canadian citizen parent.
"Substantial Connection" Requirement: The Canadian parent must prove a meaningful link to Canada by demonstrating they were physically present in the country for a minimum of 1,095 days (approximately three years) prior to the child's birth or adoption.
This physical presence does not need to be consecutive or immediately before the child's birth.
Proof may include education transcripts, employment records, tax documents, or travel history.
Actionable Guidance and Next Steps
These changes create a unique opportunity, especially for those with older ancestral ties. We recommend that individuals who believe they may be eligible under the new rules begin the assessment and application process promptly. Immigration policies are dynamic, and securing your status under the current provisions is advisable.
How We Can Help: Navigating proof of lineage and complex application processes requires expertise. Our specialists are equipped to provide tailored advice, help you gather the necessary documentation, and guide you through every step of securing your Canadian citizenship by descent.
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