Published: June 5, 2025
Source: Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC)
Major Reform: Citizenship by Descent Extended Beyond First Generation
The Government of Canada has taken a significant step forward in modernizing its citizenship laws to better reflect the realities of Canadian families today. On June 5, 2025, the Honourable Lena Metlege Diab, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, introduced Bill C-3—a proposed amendment to the Citizenship Act that would extend citizenship by descent beyond the first generation for children born or adopted outside of Canada.
What Does Bill C-3 Do?
- Automatic Citizenship: Grants citizenship to individuals who would have been Canadian if not for the current first-generation limit or outdated legal provisions.
- New Eligibility Criteria: Establishes a “substantial connection” standard, allowing Canadian parents to pass on citizenship if they have lived in Canada for 1,095 cumulative days (3 years) before their child’s birth or adoption—even if the child is born abroad beyond the first generation.
Why This Matters
For years, the first-generation limit—introduced in 2009—prevented most Canadians born abroad from passing on their citizenship to their children if those children were also born abroad. This left many Canadian families in a legal and emotional limbo.
The move comes after the Ontario Superior Court ruled in December 2023 that the current law is unconstitutional—a decision the federal government accepted without appeal, acknowledging the unjust impact on thousands of families.
A Look Back: Lost Canadians
- Canada’s first Citizenship Act in 1947 contained provisions that caused many people to lose or never acquire citizenship.
- Legislative fixes in 2009 and 2015 restored citizenship to approximately 20,000 people, commonly known as “Lost Canadians”.
- Between 1977 and 1981, some Canadians born abroad lost their citizenship at age 28 unless they took steps to retain it—many were unaware of the requirement.
In the Words of the Minister
“Citizenship is more than a legal status—it’s a profound connection to the values, history, and spirit of Canada… Being Canadian means more than just a place of birth; it’s about belonging, shared experiences, and a commitment to the inclusive and diverse community we all call home.”
— The Honourable Lena Metlege Diab
Next Steps
- Bill C-3 must pass through both Houses of Parliament and receive Royal Assent.
- IRCC will then release further details and launch processes for eligible individuals to claim their Canadian citizenship.
Stay tuned to My East Coast Experience Media for updates on this historic legislation—and what it means for immigrant families living here and around the world.
