Canada’s New Bill Sparks Surge in Second Passports Demand

Second passports are becoming a strategic asset as global mobility rules tighten and geopolitical uncertainty grows. Wealthy individuals, professionals, and globally mobile families are increasingly seeking alternative citizenships to secure travel freedom, residency options, and long-term stability.

High-profile cases such as George Clooney’s pursuit of French citizenship and Rosie O’Donnell’s exploration of Irish citizenship highlight how dual nationality is no longer niche but mainstream.

Against this backdrop, Canada introduced a major legislative reform that could reshape citizenship eligibility for thousands worldwide. Bill C-3, An Act to amend the Citizenship Act (2025), came into force on December 15, 2025, and significantly expands access to Canadian citizenship by descent.

This reform directly addresses long-standing gaps created by the first-generation limit and is already driving renewed interest in Canadian passports.

Why Second Passports Are In High Demand Globally

Global passport demand has surged as individuals seek greater freedom of movement and legal certainty. Pandemic-era travel restrictions exposed the risks of relying on a single nationality, while political instability and shifting visa regimes continue to affect international mobility.

A second passport can provide visa-free access to more countries, expanded work rights, and a safety net during economic or political disruptions. Canada’s reputation for political stability, strong passport power, and acceptance of dual citizenship makes it especially attractive in this global race for mobility.

What Is Bill C-3 And Why Does It Matter?

Bill C-3 amends Canada’s Citizenship Act to expand recognition of citizenship by descent. The most impactful change is the partial removal of the first-generation limit, a rule introduced in 2009 that restricted citizenship by descent to children born abroad to parents who were either born in Canada or naturalized there.

Under the previous system, individuals born abroad to Canadian parents who themselves were born abroad were excluded from citizenship. Bill C-3 corrects this by allowing many people born or adopted outside Canada before December 15, 2025, to claim citizenship if they would have qualified under earlier laws.

This change primarily benefits the group often referred to as “Lost Canadians”.

Am I Eligible For Canadian Citizenship By Descent Under Bill C-3

You may be eligible for Canadian citizenship if you have a Canadian parent or grandparent and were previously blocked by the first-generation limit.

In practical terms, individuals with a grandparent born in Canada or who naturalized as a Canadian citizen may now qualify, even if neither they nor their parents were born in Canada.

Because eligibility can depend on birth dates, adoption status, and family history, it is recommended to verify your status using professional or official tools.

Applying For Proof Of Canadian Citizenship

If you believe you qualify under Bill C-3, the next step is applying for a proof of citizenship certificate through Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada. This certificate is the legal document confirming your Canadian citizenship and is required before applying for a Canadian passport.

Most applications are submitted online, though paper applications remain available in limited circumstances. Once approved, eligible applicants can apply for a Canadian passport immediately.

Applicants applying in person within Canada may receive their passport in as little as 10 business days, depending on service level selected.

Does Canada Allow Dual Citizenship

Canada fully permits dual and multiple citizenship, meaning new citizens are not required to renounce their existing nationality. However, whether you can retain your original citizenship depends on the laws of your other country.

For example, China does not recognize dual nationality and India requires citizens to renounce Indian citizenship upon acquiring another nationality. In contrast, the United States allows dual citizenship, enabling U.S. nationals to become Canadian citizens without losing their American status.

Key Takeaways

Global demand for second passports is rising due to travel uncertainty and geopolitical risk.
Bill C-3 expands Canadian citizenship by descent by easing the first-generation limit.
Individuals with Canadian parents or grandparents may now qualify as citizens.
Eligible applicants must apply for proof of citizenship before obtaining a passport.
Canada allows dual citizenship, though other countries’ rules still apply.
A Canadian passport offers strong global mobility and full civic rights in Canada.