Canadian citizenship by descent

Overview

Canadian citizenship by descent

Bill C-3 took effect on December 15, 2025. It restored or recognized citizenship for many people previously excluded by the first-generation limit and created a three-year substantial-connection test for some children born abroad from that date onward.

Start with the birth date and family line

Identify where and when the person, parent and Canadian ancestor were born or naturalized. The law treats births before December 15, 2025 differently from births on or after that date.

Historical loss and retention rules can also affect older generations.

People born before the change may now be citizens

Many second-generation or later people born abroad who were blocked only by the former first-generation limit automatically became citizens when the law took effect. They apply for proof, not a grant.

Exceptions and former status history still require review.

Future transmission can require Canadian presence

For a child born abroad on or after December 15, 2025 to a Canadian parent also born or adopted abroad, the parent generally must show at least 1,095 cumulative days in Canada before the child’s birth.

Preserve passports, school, work and residence records for that parent.

Obtain proof before travel assumptions

A citizenship certificate confirms the legal status but is not a passport. Someone who may now be Canadian should resolve proof and Canadian travel-document requirements before flying.

Do not apply for permanent residence without checking whether the person is already a citizen.