Canada Expands Citizenship Rules With Bill C‑3 Changes
Ottawa — Canada has introduced major changes to its citizenship laws that came into effect on December 15, 2025.
The reforms remove outdated barriers and expand eligibility for people born or adopted abroad.
The new rules stem from Bill C‑3, An Act to Amend the Citizenship Act (2025).
This law amends the first-generation limit that previously restricted citizenship by descent.
What Bill C‑3 Changes
Under the old rule, Canadian citizenship by descent only passed to the first generation born abroad.
That ended on December 15, 2025, when Bill C‑3 took effect.
Now many people previously excluded can apply for Canadian citizenship.
This includes those born abroad whose Canadian parent was also born outside Canada.
The bill also applies to people adopted outside Canada by Canadian parents.
They, too, can now claim citizenship if they meet criteria.
New Eligibility Rules
For children born or adopted abroad after December 15, 2025, a “substantial connection” test applies.
Parents must show at least three years (1,095 days) of physical presence in Canada before the child’s birth or adoption.
This ensures future generations maintain a real connection to Canada.
It balances broader eligibility with meaningful ties to the country.
Who Benefits Most
Thousands of people affected by the old first-generation limit now have a clear pathway to citizenship.
Many of them had lived for years without recognition of their status.
Experts say the reforms help restore rights to “Lost Canadians.”
These include descendants of Canadian parents whose citizenship did not pass under the old law.
Application Process and Impact
Those already waiting on proof of citizenship applications do not need to reapply.
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada will process existing applications under the new rules.
Officials expect tens of thousands to benefit from the changes over time.
The reforms mark one of the most significant updates to Canada’s citizenship laws in years.
