Canadian Citizenship Law Update: Check Your Eligibility Now

On December 15, 2025, Canada’s new citizenship law, Bill C-3, came into effect, allowing thousands of previously ineligible “lost Canadians” to claim citizenship by descent.

This law addresses gaps in the first-generation limit (FGL) that had previously restricted citizenship for children born abroad to Canadian parents who themselves acquired citizenship by descent.

Understanding Bill C-3 And Citizenship By Descent Under the previous rules (April 17, 2009 – December 14, 2025), only children born abroad to Canadian parents with birthright citizenship or naturalized citizenship could inherit Canadian citizenship. Those whose parents had citizenship by descent—commonly called second-generation citizens—were excluded, resulting in a group often referred to as “lost Canadians.”

Bill C-3 eliminates this restriction, allowing these individuals born before December 15, 2025, to apply for citizenship and obtain proof of citizenship from the federal government. Once proof is received, applicants can then apply for a Canadian passport and enjoy the full rights of Canadian citizens, including residence, entry into Canada, voting, and eligibility to run for office.

New Provisions For Children Born On Or After December 15, 2025 The legislation also introduces rules for children born or adopted abroad after December 15, 2025. These children may acquire citizenship by descent if their Canadian parent demonstrates a substantial connection to Canada, defined as living in Canada for at least 1,095 days prior to the child’s birth or adoption.

Applicants will need to provide supporting documentation when applying online, including proof of the parent’s connection to Canada, and pay the $75 application fee. Current processing times for proof of citizenship are around nine months.

Tools And Resources To Check Eligibility Canada Visa has launched an online citizenship eligibility tool that allows individuals to quickly assess if they meet the requirements under Bill C-3. This tool is particularly helpful for lost Canadians or those planning for future generations.

For official guidance and application support, visit:

Government of Canada

Canadian Bar Association

Key Takeaways Bill C-3 allows previously ineligible “lost Canadians” to claim citizenship by descent. The law applies retroactively to children born before December 15, 2025. New rules for children born on or after December 15, 2025, require a substantial connection to Canada by the parent. Applicants must provide documentation and pay a $75 application fee for proof of citizenship. Canada Visa’s online tool helps users determine their eligibility under the updated law. Understanding these changes is essential for anyone seeking to confirm Canadian citizenship or plan for future generations.