Citizenship By Descent Canada: 99% Approved
Under Bill C-3, Canada approved nearly all urgent citizenship-by-descent claims in eight months, opening a real path for families born abroad.
Eleanor Hastings
Last updated
A Door That Reopened for Families Born Abroad
For years, Canadians born outside the country couldn't automatically pass citizenship to their own children if those kids were also born abroad. Bill C-3 changed that. This new law removes that old "first-generation limit," so more families with Canadian roots can now claim citizenship for their children.
What Bill C-3 Actually Does
Under the new rules, a Canadian parent born outside Canada can pass on citizenship to a child born abroad, as long as the parent meets a connection-to-Canada requirement, such as having spent meaningful time living in Canada before the child's birth. The exact day count is set out on IRCC's website, so always confirm the current figure before you apply.
The Numbers Behind the First Eight Months
Internal data released in October 2026 shows IRCC received close to 6,700 urgent proof-of-citizenship requests in Bill C-3's first eight months, and ruled on about 5,800 of them. Roughly 99% of those urgent requests were approved, which is a strong early signal for families who need their documents fast.
One Thing to Watch For
Approvals did slow down for a stretch in June, which IRCC has linked to a closer review of citizenship certificates. This doesn't mean your claim will be refused — it usually just means your file may take a little longer while officers double-check supporting documents.
Start Gathering Your Documents Now
If you think you or your child could qualify under the new rules, you don't have to wait for an emergency to apply. Collecting your parent's proof of citizenship, birth certificates, and residency history now can save you weeks later if you ever need an urgent decision.
Who qualifies for citizenship by descent under Bill C-3?
Generally, a Canadian parent born outside Canada can now pass citizenship to a child also born outside Canada, as long as the parent meets a set connection-to-Canada requirement. Check IRCC's current eligibility tool, since the exact criteria and required days of residency are confirmed on the official site.
What counts as an "urgent" application?
Urgent cases usually involve situations like an imminent trip, a job that requires proof of citizenship, or another pressing deadline. IRCC asks applicants to explain and support the urgency when they submit their request.
How do I apply for proof of citizenship?
You'll apply through IRCC with your application form, identity documents, and evidence linking you to your Canadian parent. Review the full document checklist on the official citizenship page before you submit, since missing paperwork is the most common cause of delay.
Check If You Qualify for Citizenship by Descent →
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