As global uncertainty and shifting travel regulations continue to reshape how people think about mobility and security, demand for second citizenships is on the rise. From everyday families to celebrities like George Clooney and Rosie O’Donnell, more individuals are turning to dual citizenship as a long-term strategy for better opportunities and greater freedom of movement.
In a timely response to this growing trend, Canada has enacted new legislation that broadens access to citizenship by descent. According to Maple News, Bill C-3—An Act to amend the Citizenship Act (2025)—officially came into effect on December 15, 2025. The new law eliminates what was known as the ‘first-generation limit’ (FGL), a restriction that previously denied Canadian citizenship to many individuals born outside of Canada to Canadian parents who were also born abroad.
Under the previous FGL rule, introduced in 2009, only the first generation born abroad to Canadian citizens could inherit citizenship. This excluded thousands who were grandchildren or adopted children of Canadian citizens but had no direct ties through a parent born in Canada. Bill C-3 removes this limitation, paving the way for many so-called “Lost Canadians” to claim their rightful citizenship.
Now, individuals with a Canadian grandparent—or parents who were naturalized citizens—may be eligible for Canadian citizenship, even if they and their parents were both born outside the country. Maple News encourages those interested to verify their eligibility under the updated legislation by consulting the Canadian government’s assessment resources or seeking legal guidance.
Eligible applicants will need to apply for proof of citizenship through Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). Upon approval, they can obtain a Canadian citizenship certificate, which allows them to apply for a Canadian passport. Those residing in Canada may receive their passport within as little as 10 business days when applying in person.
Importantly, Canada fully allows dual citizenship. This means newcomers do not need to relinquish their original nationality to become Canadian citizens—although individuals are advised to check the laws of their country of origin, as some nations, such as China and India, do not permit dual citizenship.
Owning a Canadian passport comes with considerable benefits. Ranked among the world’s most powerful travel documents, it provides visa-free access to 181 global destinations—surpassing even the U.S. passport, which grants access to 179. Beyond international travel, Canadians enjoy full political rights at home, including voting and running for office, as well as unrestricted work and residency across the country.
With expanded pathways now available through Bill C-3, many individuals with Canadian roots may find that the door to citizenship—and all the benefits it offers—has quietly reopened. As the world becomes more volatile, a Canadian passport is increasingly viewed not just as a travel document, but as a symbol of future security.