Bill C-3 Is Now Law: A Major Expansion of Canadian Citizenship by Descent

On December 15, 2025, a long-awaited change to Canadian citizenship law officially came into force. Bill C-3, which amends the Citizenship Act, has now become law opening the door to Canadian citizenship for thousands of individuals previously excluded under outdated rules.

Often referred to as addressing the issue of “Lost Canadians,” this legislative change removes long-standing barriers created by the first-generation limit (FGL) on citizenship by descent and introduces a more inclusive framework for families with strong ties to Canada.

What Changed Under Bill C-3?

Before Bill C-3, Canadian citizenship by descent was generally limited to the first generation born outside Canada. This meant that many people born abroad to Canadian parents, who themselves were also born outside Canada, were unable to pass on or receive Canadian citizenship, regardless of their family’s connection to the country.

Bill C-3 modernizes these rules.

As of December 15, 2025, individuals who were denied citizenship solely because of the first-generation limit or other historic restrictions may now be recognized as Canadian citizens and are eligible to apply for proof of citizenship.

Who Is Now Eligible for Canadian Citizenship?

Eligibility under the amended Citizenship Act depends on when you were born and your parents’ citizenship history.

Individuals Born Before December 15, 2025

If you were born outside Canada and would have been a Canadian citizen but for the first-generation limit or similar outdated provisions, you may now be recognized as a Canadian citizen and can apply for a citizenship certificate as proof.

Individuals Born On or After December 15, 2025

Children born abroad on or after this date to a Canadian parent who was also born outside Canada may qualify for citizenship if both of the following apply:

• The parent was a Canadian citizen at the time of the child’s birth; and

• The Canadian parent can demonstrate a substantial connection to Canada.

To meet the substantial connection test, the Canadian parent must show at least 1,095 days (three years) of physical presence in Canada before the child’s birth.

What If You Applied Under the Interim Measures?

In 2023, IRCC introduced interim measures to allow certain applicants affected by the first-generation limit to apply for proof of citizenship while legislative changes were pending.

Now that Bill C-3 is in force:

• Applications already submitted under those interim measures will continue to be processed under the new law.

• No new application is required for those who already applied.

Citizenship That May Be Granted or Restored

Depending on individual circumstances, the amendments may also grant or restore Canadian citizenship to people who:

• Were born abroad to a Canadian parent who held citizenship before their birth;

• Were born abroad to a parent who became Canadian as a result of Bill C-3; or

• Previously lost Canadian citizenship under former legislative provisions.

Each case is highly fact-specific, and careful review is required to confirm eligibility.

Why Was Bill C-3 Necessary?

The path to Bill C-3 was shaped by significant legal developments.

In December 2023, the Ontario Superior Court ruled that aspects of the citizenship by descent rules were unconstitutional, finding that they created unequal classes of Canadian citizens with different rights to pass on citizenship. Rather than appealing the decision, the federal government committed to legislative reform.

After multiple extensions and delays, Parliament passed Bill C-3, and it received Royal Assent in November 2025 bringing the issue to a close.

Why Canadian Citizenship Matters

Canadian citizenship provides rights and protections that go beyond permanent residence, including:

• The right to vote and fully participate in Canada’s democratic process;

• An absolute right to enter and remain in Canada;

• Greater flexibility when sponsoring family members;

• Eligibility for certain government and security-sensitive positions; and

• Access to a Canadian passport, one of the most widely accepted travel documents globally.

Final Thoughts

Bill C-3 represents a meaningful shift toward fairness and inclusivity in Canadian citizenship law. For many families, it restores a legal status that reflects their genuine and enduring connection to Canada.

If you believe you or your child may now be eligible for Canadian citizenship, or if you are unsure how the new rules apply to your situation, seeking legal advice can help ensure your application is accurate, complete, and properly supported.

To learn more information or seek legal advice, please do not hesitate to reach out to our experienced law firm at rharding@hardingimmigrationlaw.com or book a consultation here.