If you have a grandparent who is Canadian, you may be eligible for Canadian citizenship, even if you and your parents were born abroad without any ties to Canada.

If your parent was born in Canada, they are automatically a Canadian citizen by birth. You can apply for a Canadian citizenship certificate if your parent acquired Canadian citizenship at birth.

If your grandparent is Canadian and your parent was born outside Canada, you may not automatically be a Canadian citizen. However, you can apply for a discretionary grant of citizenship if you can prove your grandparent’s Canadian citizenship.

A discretionary grant of citizenship involves a review by IRCC to determine your eligibility. Once approved, you will receive a Canadian citizenship certificate, enabling you to apply for a Canadian passport.

How does a discretionary grant of citizenship work?

IRCC will review your application and may invite you to request a discretionary grant of citizenship if eligible.

For example, Sarah, born in the US to a Canadian grandmother, can apply for a discretionary grant of Canadian citizenship by providing proof of her grandmother’s citizenship.

Applying for a Canadian citizenship certificate

Visit the government website to answer specific questions about your situation and determine your eligibility for Canadian citizenship.