Passing Citizenship to Your Children
Citizenship is not only something you apply for — it can also be passed down.
If you were born outside Canada but have a Canadian parent, you may already be a Canadian citizen. In this case, you don't apply for a citizenship grant. Instead, you apply for a Citizenship Certificate (Proof of Citizenship).
This certificate is official proof that you are already a Canadian citizen by descent.
You may qualify for a citizenship certificate if:
This is called citizenship by descent. Under Bill C-3, which took effect on December 15, 2025, Canadian citizenship can now be passed down beyond the first generation born outside Canada.
Yes. Before December 2025, citizenship by descent was generally limited to only one generation born outside Canada. Bill C-3 removed that first-generation limit. Many people born abroad in the second generation — or beyond — through a Canadian parent, grandparent, or earlier ancestor may now qualify automatically.
This includes individuals who were previously refused or excluded solely because of the old first-generation limit.
Immigration laws can be complex, and exceptions or legislative updates may apply depending on individual circumstances. That's why reviewing each case carefully is important.
Important — children born on or after December 15, 2025: If a Canadian parent was also born abroad, they must usually demonstrate at least 1,095 days (3 years) of physical presence in Canada before the child's birth or adoption for citizenship to pass to that child. If you think this affects your family, contact us for an assessment.
If you qualify for citizenship by descent, the certificate allows you to:
Without the certificate, even if you are legally a citizen, you may not be able to exercise your rights fully.
Whether you need to confirm citizenship by descent or obtain proof for your child, professional guidance ensures the process is handled correctly.