Recently, a significant development occurred in Canada’s House of Commons regarding Bill C-3, aimed at expanding eligibility for Canadian citizenship by descent. The Bill, if passed, will remove the First-Generation Limit rule, allowing Canadians born overseas to pass citizenship to their children born outside of Canada.

Current Status of Bill C-3 Towards Royal Assent

Bill C-3 has completed the House of Commons process and awaits approval in the Senate. It must pass through readings in both houses without amendments to become law.

Applying for Citizenship under Proposed Changes

Individuals affected by the proposed changes can apply for proof of Canadian citizenship under new interim measures introduced by the government.

Potential Impact of Bill C-3

If Bill C-3 passes, it will restore citizenship by descent to second-generation Canadians born or adopted abroad and rectify instances of lost citizenship under past Citizenship Acts.

• Children born or adopted abroad to a Canadian parent before December 19, 2023
• Children born or adopted after December 19, 2023, affected by the FGL
• Individuals born abroad before April 1, 1949, with a Canadian parent
• Individuals who lost citizenship due to unmet retention requirements

Reasons Behind Bill C-3 Introduction

In response to a court ruling declaring certain provisions of the Citizenship Act unconstitutional, Bill C-3 was introduced to address the issues and restore citizenship rights.