Maple News reports that individuals born outside of Canada to a Canadian grandparent may now be eligible to apply for a discretionary grant of Canadian citizenship, thanks to recent interim measures introduced by the federal government.
Under a policy adjustment launched in March 2025, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has opened a pathway for individuals impacted by the First-Generation Limit (FGL) to request proof of Canadian citizenship. The FGL—part of the Citizenship Act since 2009—restricts citizenship by descent to the first generation born abroad to Canadian citizens. This has historically excluded grandchildren of Canadian citizens from acquiring citizenship automatically.
However, a 2023 ruling by the Ontario Superior Court of Justice found the FGL unconstitutional, prompting the federal government to implement temporary measures while a permanent legislative fix is under consideration. These interim measures allow eligible individuals to submit an application online. If IRCC determines they are affected by the FGL, they may be invited to apply for a discretionary grant of citizenship.
An online questionnaire offered by IRCC helps determine whether prospective applicants are impacted by the FGL. If eligible, applicants may also request urgent processing, particularly if they can demonstrate significant need or time sensitivity.
Meanwhile, the federal government continues the legislative process to address the FGL long-term. Bill C-3, which seeks to amend the Citizenship Act, is now at the report stage in the House of Commons. If adopted, it would allow an exception to the FGL for Canadian parents who demonstrate a strong connection to the country—defined as having lived in Canada for at least 1,095 days in any five-year period prior to the birth or adoption of their child.
The proposed legislation also includes provisions requiring individuals over age 18 applying for citizenship by descent to undergo a security screening. Before it can become law, Bill C-3 must pass three readings in both houses of Parliament and receive royal assent.
Until the law is officially amended, the interim measures offer a critical lifeline for individuals previously excluded under the current rules. The grace period for these temporary policies extends until November 20, 2025, giving impacted individuals a window of opportunity to secure their citizenship status.
This move reflects the government’s ongoing commitment to ensuring the citizenship framework is fair, inclusive, and consistent with the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms.