Maple News reports that a significant change to Canadian citizenship laws has opened the door for thousands of individuals born abroad to claim Canadian citizenship, even if their parents never held a Canadian passport.
As of December 15, 2025, the Government of Canada has implemented Bill C-3, officially titled An Act to Amend the Citizenship Act. This transformative legislation eliminates the longstanding “first-generation limit” (FGL) for citizenship by descent. The change means that individuals born outside Canada before December 15, 2025, who have at least one Canadian grandparent, may now be eligible to apply for proof of Canadian citizenship—even if their parents were not Canadian citizens.
Previously, Canadian citizenship by descent was confined to the first generation born abroad. In other words, children of Canadian citizens by descent were often excluded from acquiring citizenship themselves. With this barrier lifted, Canada extends its commitment to recognizing deeper generational ties to the country.
This policy change is expected to benefit thousands of people worldwide who can demonstrate that they are descended from a Canadian citizen—either through birth or adoption. If eligible, applicants will need to provide documents confirming their lineage, such as birth certificates and proof of their grandparent’s Canadian citizenship.
Citizenship by descent remains distinct from birthright citizenship, which automatically applies to individuals born on Canadian soil. Those qualifying through descent must apply for a citizenship certificate, which serves as formal proof and allows them to apply for a Canadian passport.
Applicants can submit their proof of citizenship request online through Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). As of the latest update, the average processing time for such applications stands at approximately 10 months, though timelines may vary.
Once recognized as a citizen, individuals gain full rights under Canadian law, including the ability to live and work in Canada, access social services, vote in elections, and run for political office.
This legislative update reflects Canada’s evolving perspective on citizenship and acknowledges the global realities of multi-generational diaspora communities. It offers new opportunities for those with Canadian heritage to reconnect with their ancestral country and, potentially, begin a new chapter of life in Canada.
For those interested, the application process may begin in 2026. Prospective applicants are encouraged to gather paperwork early and monitor updates from IRCC for program specifics and revised timelines.