Recently, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) made significant updates to its proof of citizenship application package on August 25.

Four key documents were revised: the application form (CIT 0001), the document checklist (CIT 0014), the physical presence form (CIT 0555), and the instruction guide.

These updates primarily focus on demonstrating that a Canadian parent spent 1,095 days in Canada before their child’s birth.

The changes provide applicants with more detailed information and requirements. For instance, certain types of evidence that were previously accepted now need to meet stricter criteria, such as requiring a sworn affidavit with the signer’s contact information.

Impact of the Updates

The physical presence requirement affects children born outside Canada on or after December 15, 2025, to a Canadian parent who was also born outside Canada. It mandates that the parent demonstrate 1,095 cumulative days of physical presence in Canada before the child’s birth for citizenship to be transmitted to the child.

If the individual was born before December 15, 2025, these regulations do not apply. Bill C-3 has eliminated the first-generation limit for this group, removing the need for a physical presence test.

While the current affected group is relatively small, it is expected to expand over time as more children are born under these conditions.

For those who have already submitted their applications and are concerned about missing information, IRCC typically returns incomplete applications for further completion. Processing officers may also request additional documents during the review process.

Notable Changes in the Forms

CIT 0001 now specifies the required form. In Section 13, the application clarifies that a positive response necessitates submitting the ‘How to calculate physical presence in Canada for a Canadian parent’ form (CIT 0555). Previously, the form simply referred to ‘the instruction guide’ without providing specific details.

CIT 0555 emphasizes IRCC’s verification process. Two new statements have been added to the form. The first, on the first page, states that all information provided will be verified by IRCC. The second, located below the section where the parent’s days are totaled, requests contact information for individuals who can validate the declared information. This requirement for references is now explicitly outlined on the form.

Standard document requirements have been formalized. Any submissions must adhere to the new guidelines set by IRCC.