Understanding Canadian Citizenship Laws for Americans with Ancestry

Discover how recent changes in Canada’s citizenship law have led to thousands of Americans becoming U.S.-Canadian dual citizens overnight, including their children.

If you have a Canadian ancestor, no matter how many generations removed, you and your children may now be dual citizens of the U.S. and Canada.

Learn about the implications for your spouse and blended family, as Canadian citizenship by descent does not automatically extend to them.

Options for Your Spouse

Explore family sponsorship opportunities that allow your spouse and their children to benefit from your Canadian citizenship.

As a Canadian citizen, you can sponsor your partner and their children for Canadian permanent residency.

Children born to you and your spouse are also Canadian citizens by descent and can apply for proof of Canadian citizenship certificates.

Blended Family Considerations

Understand the process of sponsoring children from your spouse’s previous relationship for permanent residency in Canada.

Discover the requirements for sponsoring a common-law partner or a conjugal partner, even if not legally married.