The Immigration Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) now processes proof of citizenship applications within three months, significantly reducing wait times compared to pre-pandemic standards. Foreign nationals with at least one Canadian parent can now anticipate faster decisions on their citizenship applications.
Proof of citizenship, under Canada’s Citizenship Act, requires children born to Canadian parent(s) abroad to apply for a Canadian citizenship certificate. This certificate, along with Canadian birth certificate, is the only documentation recognized by Passport Canada for citizenship verification, crucial for Canadian passport applications.
This process is available at any stage of life, regardless of the Canadian parent’s status. Adopted children of Canadian parents, adopted after birth, are not eligible for this process and must explore alternative paths to Canadian citizenship.
Recent changes to citizenship law:
On December 19th, 2023, Ontario’s Superior Court of Justice deemed Canada’s second-generation citizenship cut-off law unconstitutional, mandating amendments to the Citizenship Act. This law prevented Canadians born abroad from automatically passing citizenship to their foreign-born children. The federal government chose not to appeal the decision, indicating anticipated changes to citizenship regulations. Updates will be provided as the situation evolves.
Benefits of Canadian citizenship:
Canadian citizenship offers various advantages, including protected rights, access to social services and benefits, voting rights, and eligibility for political office. Additionally, Canadian citizens enjoy the benefits of a globally recognized passport, the ability to sponsor relatives to visit or settle in Canada, and the possibility of passing on citizenship to their children. Canadian citizens can also hold dual citizenship with other nations with similar provisions.
