Canada’s New Citizenship-by-Descent Rules Explained

Canada has introduced important changes to its citizenship laws, particularly affecting children born outside Canada to Canadian parents. These updates aim to address long-standing gaps in the law and expand access to Canadian citizenship for families living abroad.

If you or your child were previously told you were not eligible for Canadian citizenship, it may be time to reassess.

What Changed in Canadian Citizenship Law?

Bill C-3 removes or relaxes the old “first-generation limit” that used to restrict citizenship from being passed down only once to children born abroad.

Before December 15, 2025:

• If a Canadian was born in Canada (or naturalized) and had a child abroad → that child could be a citizen.

• But if that child (first generation born abroad) had their own child abroad, the second generation could not automatically inherit citizenship.

Now — after Bill C-3 (effective Dec 15, 2025):

• Children (and later generations) born outside Canada can inherit Canadian citizenship even if their Canadian parent was also born abroad — as long as the parent meets a “substantial connection” requirement.

Substantial connection test (for children born after Dec 15, 2025)

To pass citizenship to their child born abroad on or after Dec 15, 2025, the Canadian parent must have:✅ Spent at least 1,095 days (≈ 3 years) physically in Canada before their child’s birth or adoption.

This rule is designed to show a real connection to Canada.

What About People Born Before These Changes?

Many individuals who were previously excluded under the old rules may now:

• Be recognized automatically as Canadian citizens, or

• Be eligible to apply for a Canadian citizenship certificate as proof of status

Each case depends on family history, dates of birth, and parental status, so professional review is strongly recommended.

What Has NOT Changed?

These updates do not affect:

• Canadian citizens who already had citizenship

• Citizenship through naturalization (residency, language, and test requirements still apply)

• Permanent residence rules or sponsorship requirements

The changes are specific to citizenship by descent.

Why This Matters for Families Abroad

These reforms are especially important for:

• Canadians living long-term outside Canada

• Children born abroad to Canadian parents

• Families who were told in the past that citizenship was “not possible”

With the law evolving, many families now have options that did not exist before.

To know more, here is the link: https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/canadian-citizenship/act-changes/rules-2025.html?utm_source=chatgpt.com

How Our Firm Can Help

Canadian citizenship law is highly technical. Even small details—such as where and when a parent lived in Canada—can change the outcome.

📞 We recommend booking a consultation before taking any steps, especially if you were previously refused or told you were ineligible.

Book a Consultation

If you think these new rules may apply to you or your child, we’re here to help.

👉 Book a consultation with our Canadian immigration lawyer

👉 Get clear, accurate advice based on your specific situation

This article is for general information only and does not constitute legal advice.