On December 15, 2025, Bill C-3, An Act to amend the Citizenship Act (2025), came into force. The new law changes who is a Canadian
On December 15, 2025, Bill C-3, An Act to amend the Citizenship Act (2025), came into force. The new law changes who is a Canadian citizen by descent and matters to many Canadian families whose children were born or adopted outside Canada.
Background
Since 2009, the “first-generation limit” meant that a child born or adopted abroad was not automatically a citizen if their Canadian parent was also born or adopted abroad. On December 19, 2023, the Ontario Superior Court of Justice found key parts of this rule unconstitutional, and the government did not appeal. Bill C-3 was introduced on June 5, 2025 and received royal assent on November 20, 2025.
Who is Now a Citizen?
- People born before December 15, 2025 who would have been citizens except for the first-generation limit or other outdated rules are now Canadian citizens. This includes many “Lost Canadians” and their descendants.
- These people can now apply for proof of citizenship.
Children Born or Adopted Abroad on or After December 15, 2025
A Canadian parent who was born or adopted abroad can pass on citizenship to a child born or adopted abroad if the parent shows a substantial connection to Canada: at least 1,095 days (three years) of physical presence in Canada before the child’s birth or adoption.
Adoption
People adopted abroad before December 15, 2025 by a Canadian parent who was born or adopted abroad can apply for citizenship for an adopted child.
Pending Applications
People who applied under the earlier interim measure do not need to submit a new application. IRCC will process existing applications under the new rules.
Next Steps for Families
- Gather documents showing the Canadian parent’s physical presence in Canada.
- Check whether a child born abroad may already be a Canadian citizen.
- Apply to IRCC for proof of citizenship.
People who automatically became citizens under the new law and were never previously granted citizenship can use a simplified process to renounce it if they wish.
To find out whether you or your children may be Canadian citizens under the new rules, complete our online assessment or contact our office to book a consultation.
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