Ottawa- The federal government has brought Bill C-3 into force, significantly expanding Canada’s citizenship-by-descent rules and restoring citizenship rights to thousands of people worldwide. The changes apply retroactively and going forward, addressing long-standing gaps in the Citizenship Act that prevented many individuals born or adopted abroad from being recognized as Canadian citizens.
Under the new rules, individuals born or adopted abroad to a Canadian parent before December 15, 2025, who were previously excluded under older legislation, are now eligible for Canadian citizenship. The amendments also allow Canadians who themselves were born or adopted abroad to pass on citizenship to their children born or adopted outside Canada, provided they meet specific eligibility requirements demonstrating a substantial connection to Canada.
The government has emphasized that no one will lose Canadian citizenship as a result of Bill C-3. Citizenship already held remains secure, and individuals who qualify under the new provisions can apply for proof of citizenship. Those who wish to give up their citizenship may still do so through the existing voluntary renunciation process.
Bill C-3 addresses what have long been referred to as “Lost Canadians” — people with clear ties to Canada who were denied citizenship due to technical limits in previous laws, including the former first-generation cut-off. Officials say the changes modernize the Citizenship Act, reflect today’s global families, and strengthen Canada’s connection with citizens living abroad.
The amendments are expected to have a far-reaching impact, restoring or confirming citizenship for many families across generations while ensuring the Canadian citizenship framework remains fair, inclusive, and legally sound.
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