In a landmark move, the Canadian government has officially enacted significant reforms to its citizenship laws, opening a new pathway for thousands of individuals with Canadian heritage to claim their citizenship rights. The changes, which came into effect on Monday, are part of Bill C-3, the Act to Amend the Citizenship Act (2025).
The legislation, which received royal assent in November, aims to modernize outdated rules to better reflect contemporary Canadian family life, both within the country and abroad. From December 15, 2025, individuals born on or before that date, who were previously barred by the 'first-generation limit,' can now apply for a citizenship certificate.
"For many, this moment has been long awaited. Today’s changes affirm their place in the Canadian family and strengthen the sense of belonging that citizenship represents," stated Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
What Changed in Canada's Citizenship Rules?
The previous law, established in 2009, enforced a strict 'First-Generation Limit.' This rule automatically prevented Canadian parents who were themselves born outside Canada from passing citizenship to their children born abroad. Regardless of the parent's connection to Canada, their foreign-born children were ineligible for citizenship at birth.
The new rule, effective from December 15, 2025, abolishes this limit. It now allows a Canadian parent born abroad to transmit citizenship to their child also born outside Canada. However, the parent must satisfy a new requirement known as the 'Substantial Connection' test.
Understanding the 'Substantial Connection' Test
To pass citizenship to a child born abroad, a Canadian parent born outside Canada must demonstrate significant ties to the nation. The primary method to prove this is by showing a cumulative physical presence in Canada for at least 1,095 days (three years) before the child's birth or adoption.
Restoration of Citizenship for 'Lost Canadians'
A crucial restorative provision addresses those known as 'Lost Canadians.' These are individuals born between 2009 and 2025 to Canadian parents impacted by the old first-generation rule, who were legally excluded from citizenship at birth.
Under the new law, these individuals are automatically recognized as Canadian citizens. They do not need to meet the 'Substantial Connection' criteria and can apply immediately for a Proof of Citizenship certificate.
The reforms also extend to adopted children. Previously, children adopted abroad by Canadian parents faced the same first-generation restrictions. Now, they are eligible for citizenship, provided their adoptive parents meet the 'Substantial Connection' requirement of having lived in Canada for three years prior to the adoption.
This policy shift is expected to have a profound impact, reuniting families and correcting what many viewed as an unfair limitation in Canada's citizenship framework.
