Explainer: Canada has expanded citizenship by descent. Here’s what changed - Canadian Affairs

Canada has announced an expansion of citizenship by descent, effective immediately as of June 29, 2026. This change allows more individuals born outside Canada to claim Canadian citizenship, broadening the scope of eligibility for those with Canadian parents.

This expansion is significant as it marks a shift from previous regulations that limited citizenship by descent primarily to those born to Canadian citizens who were themselves born in Canada. Historically, individuals born outside Canada to Canadian parents faced challenges in obtaining citizenship, especially if their parents were born abroad or if they had multiple generations of Canadian citizens living outside the country. The new policy aims to rectify these limitations and facilitate a more inclusive approach to Canadian citizenship.

Under the new rules, individuals born outside Canada to a Canadian parent can now apply for citizenship regardless of the location of their parent’s birth, as long as the parent was a Canadian citizen at the time of the applicant's birth. This change eliminates previous restrictions that required at least one parent to have been born in Canada. Applicants must provide proof of their parent’s citizenship, which can include a Canadian birth certificate or citizenship certificate, and must also meet standard application requirements, including identity verification and background checks.

“By expanding citizenship by descent, we are ensuring that more Canadians can pass on their citizenship to their children, no matter where they are born,” said an official from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada. This statement underscores the government's commitment to recognizing the diverse backgrounds of Canadian citizens and their families.

This policy change primarily affects individuals born outside Canada to Canadian parents, including those in countries such as the United States, the United Kingdom, Australia, and many others. It also benefits individuals with Canadian grandparents or great-grandparents who previously faced barriers to citizenship. As a result, thousands of individuals may now find themselves eligible for Canadian citizenship who were not able to apply under the former rules.

For those interested in applying for citizenship by descent, it is crucial to gather the necessary documentation proving Canadian citizenship of the parent, including any required forms and identification. Applicants should check their IRCC online account for updates and ensure they submit their applications promptly to take advantage of the new eligibility criteria. More information can be found on the official Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada website.