New Canadian citizenship rules are now officially in effect under Bill C-3. The update fixes long-standing gaps in citizenship by descent and supports Canadian families living abroad. People born before December 15, 2025, who missed out due to the first-generation limit can now be recognized as Canadian and apply for proof of citizenship.
From now on, Canadian parents born or adopted outside Canada can pass on citizenship if they lived in Canada for at least three years before their child’s birth or adoption. The changes follow a 2023 court ruling and aim to bring fairness and clarity. Many families have waited years for this moment. Could this affect you or someone you know?

