Applying for proof of Canadian citizenship

Overview

Applying for proof of Canadian citizenship

A citizenship certificate proves existing Canadian citizenship; it does not create citizenship in the way a grant application does. The applicant must document the legal chain from the Canadian parent or other basis to themselves.

Confirm proof is the correct service

People born in Canada usually use a provincial or territorial birth certificate, subject to diplomatic exceptions. People born abroad may need a federal citizenship certificate.

A child who is already a citizen should not be sponsored for permanent residence.

Build the generational record

Provide birth, parentage, name-change, marriage and Canadian citizenship records connecting the applicant to the Canadian parent. For Bill C-3 cases, include the generations and dates affected by the new rules.

Unclear parentage or assisted-reproduction facts may require additional evidence.

Prove substantial connection where required

For certain births abroad on or after December 15, 2025, the foreign-born Canadian parent must document 1,095 days in Canada before the birth. Use travel, school, work, tax and residence records.

The calculation is cumulative and historically focused.

Use the certificate to obtain documents

After approval, check names and dates on the certificate and apply separately for a Canadian passport. A certificate alone is not used for international air travel.

Urgent processing requires the proof listed by IRCC and is not granted for every planned trip.