Pathway finder
My citizenship was refused or is delayed: Mine, through a Canadian parent
Routes people usually look at
1
A citizenship certificate (proof of citizenship)
You may already be a citizen if a parent was a Canadian citizen when you were born.2
Changes to citizenship by descent
A new law, Bill C-3, took effect on December 15, 2025. It extended citizenship by descent to many people born abroad before that date who were previously excluded by the first-generation limit. For children born or adopted abroad on or after that date, a Canadian parent born abroad generally needs to show a substantial connection to Canada, such as 1,095 days in Canada before the birth.
What’s usually involved
- Gather proof of your parent’s citizenship at the time of your birth.
- Gather proof of your relationship to that parent.
- Apply for a citizenship certificate.
- Once you have the certificate, you can apply for a Canadian passport.
Documents you’ll typically need
Timing
Timing depends on how complete the application is and the volume of applications after the change in the law. Check IRCC’s processing times page.
Common pitfalls
- Assuming you are not a citizen because of the old rules
- Missing documents for a parent or grandparent
- Travelling to Canada on a foreign passport without understanding the entry rules for citizens
This is general information, not legal advice about your situation.
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