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Bill C-3 Takes Effect, Creating a Clear Pathway to Canadian Citizenship
Thousands of individuals previously affected by Canada’s first-generation limit (FGL) on citizenship by descent are now eligible for Canadian citizenship after Bill C-3 officially came into force on December 15, 2025.
The legislation, formally titled An Act to Amend the Citizenship Act, removes long-standing restrictions that prevented many people with Canadian parentage from being recognized as citizens.
Immigration Minister Lena Metlege Diab said the new law strengthens ties between Canadians living in Canada and those abroad, while reaffirming the country’s national values.
This remains a developing story, with further details expected as the changes are implemented.
Expanded Eligibility Under the Amended Citizenship Act
Under the updated law, individuals born before December 15, 2025, who would have been Canadian citizens if not for the first-generation limit or other outdated provisions, will now be recognized as citizens and may apply for proof of Canadian citizenship.
For individuals born outside Canada on or after December 15, 2025, citizenship by descent will be available if:
- At least one parent was a Canadian citizen at the time of birth, and
- The Canadian parent meets the substantial connection to Canada requirement.
To meet this requirement, the Canadian parent must demonstrate at least three years (1,095 days) of physical presence in Canada before the child’s birth.
Impact on Existing Applications
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) will assess applications submitted under the interim measures introduced in 2023 using the new legislative framework.
Applicants who have already submitted a proof of citizenship application under these interim measures do not need to reapply, as their cases will be processed under the amended rules.
Who May Gain or Regain Canadian Citizenship
Depending on individual circumstances, the amended Citizenship Act may grant or restore citizenship to:
- Individuals born outside Canada to a Canadian parent;
- Individuals whose parent becomes a citizen as a result of the new amendments
- Individuals who previously lost Canadian citizenship under earlier provisions.
Background on Bill C-3
The introduction of Bill C-3 follows a December 2023 ruling by the Ontario Superior Court, which found the second-generation limit in the previous Citizenship Act to be unconstitutional. The court held that the law created unequal classes of Canadian citizens by limiting the ability of some citizens to pass on their citizenship.
The federal government chose not to appeal the ruling and instead moved to amend the legislation. Although initially required to act by 2024, the government sought several deadline extensions. The most recent extension, granted on November 18, 2025, became unnecessary after Bill C-3 received Royal Assent on November 20, 2025.
Key Benefits of Canadian Citizenship
Canadian citizens enjoy rights not available to permanent residents, including:
- The right to vote in Canadian elections;
- Guaranteed entry into Canada and protection from inadmissibility;
- Greater ability to sponsor family members from abroad;
- Eligibility for certain government positions requiring security clearance; and
- Access to a Canadian passport.