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Canada is already returning citizenship certificates it demanded days ago from lost Canadians - CIC…

Canada has begun returning citizenship certificates to individuals who were previously deemed "lost Canadians," following a recent announcement from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). This initiative was launched on June 20, 2026, and aims to rectify the status of those who lost their citizenship due to historical legislative changes.

This development is significant as it marks a shift in the government's approach to addressing the citizenship status of individuals affected by past policies. Previously, many Canadians were left in limbo due to the complexities surrounding citizenship laws, particularly those who lost their citizenship through no fault of their own. The return of these certificates signals a commitment to resolving these long-standing issues and providing clarity to affected individuals.

Under the new measures, individuals who can demonstrate their Canadian citizenship will receive their certificates without the need for extensive documentation. This streamlined process is a departure from past requirements, which often involved lengthy applications and significant bureaucratic hurdles. The IRCC has emphasized the importance of this initiative, stating that it aims to ensure that all Canadians, regardless of their circumstances, can access their citizenship rights.

The IRCC's actions are particularly relevant for those who have been classified as lost Canadians, a term that encompasses individuals who lost their citizenship due to changes in the law or who were born abroad to Canadian parents. This group includes individuals from various backgrounds, including those from countries such as the United States, the United Kingdom, and India, among others.

For those affected, the next step is to verify their citizenship status through the IRCC's online portal. Individuals should check their accounts for updates regarding their citizenship certificates and ensure that they have the necessary documentation ready for submission if required. This proactive approach will help facilitate the return of their citizenship certificates and restore their status as Canadian citizens. More information can be found on the official IRCC website.

A small portion of this article — research support, fact-cross-checking, and copy-editing — was assisted by AI tooling. Editorial decisions, source verification, and final sign-off remain with our team. We cite primary sources from canada.ca for every factual claim.

Last reviewed: June 20, 2026

IRCC.com is an independent news site and not affiliated with the Government of Canada.

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