Canada’s New Citizenship Rules (Bill C-3) — A practical guide for families, expats and advisors
On December 15, 2025, Bill C-3 — the amendment to Canada’s Citizenship Act — came into force. This change fixes long-standing gaps that left many people without a clear path to Canadian citizenship and introduces a practical standard for passing citizenship to children born or adopted outside Canada. If you have Canadian roots, live abroad, or help families with immigration planning, these are the essentials you need to know. Immigration News Canada
At a glance — the five most important points
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Bill C-3 is in effect as of Dec 15, 2025. Immigration News Canada
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The first-generation limit is eliminated retroactively — people who were excluded under older rules (often called “Lost Canadians”) can now be granted citizenship and request proof. Immigration News Canada
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For children born or adopted abroad on/after Dec 15, 2025, a “substantial connection” is required — defined as 1,095 days (three cumulative years) of physical presence by the parent in Canada before the child’s birth or adoption.
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IRCC will process applications submitted under interim measures using the new law, so applicants who already filed don’t need to reapply.
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There’s a simplified renunciation route for those who gain citizenship but choose to renounce it for personal or legal reasons. Immigration News Canada
Why this change matters
For decades Canada’s citizenship rules evolved in fits and starts. Earlier reforms helped many people reclaim status, but the first-generation limit left the children and descendants of Canadians born abroad without automatic citizenship — even if their family maintained strong ties to Canada. Bill C-3 corrects that imbalance while adding a safeguard to ensure citizenship by descent reflects a real, demonstrable connection to Canada. Immigration News Canada
Who benefits — real examples
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A grandchild born overseas to a Canadian-born grandparent but whose parent was also born abroad may now be eligible.
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Adopted children born or adopted overseas to Canadian parents who were themselves born or adopted abroad are covered under the new rules.
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People who applied under the interim measures after the 2023 court decision will have their files processed under Bill C-3 — no new filing required.
The “substantial connection” explained (what counts)
To pass citizenship to their child born or adopted abroad on/after December 15, 2025, a parent who was also born or adopted abroad must show cumulative physical presence in Canada totaling at least 1,095 days before the child’s birth or adoption. Acceptable evidence can include:
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Passport stamps and travel records
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Tax returns and T4 slips
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Enrollment records (schools, universities)
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Employment contracts, pay stubs or Social Insurance Number (SIN) usage
Gather documents that show time physically present in Canada — intermittent stays add up.
How to apply (practical next steps)
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Check your eligibility on IRCC’s website. Use the official tools first — they reflect the amended Act and current IRCC guidance. If you think you qualify retroactively, apply for proof of citizenship (Form CIT-0001E). Include certified documents: long-form birth certificates, adoption records, your parent’s proof of Canadian status, and supporting evidence of physical presence where required.
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If you already applied under interim measures, monitor IRCC updates — your application will be processed using the new law; you do not need to refile.
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If you’re planning ahead (child to be born/adopted abroad) — document every day you are physically in Canada now so you can meet the 1,095-day threshold when the time comes.
Common questions (short, clear answers)
Q: When did Bill C-3 take effect?
A: December 15, 2025.
Q: Do I need to reapply if I filed earlier under the interim rules?
A: No — IRCC has said earlier filings will be considered under the new rules.
Q: What documents prove “substantial connection”?
A: Travel/entry records, tax filings, school records, employment records and other official documents showing physical presence. IRCC accepts a range of evidence. Q: Can someone renounce newly-granted citizenship?
A: Yes — a simplified renunciation process is available for those who choose to do so.
Implementation & what to watch for
IRCC has expanded resources — helplines, webinars and priority processing for many of these cases — but demand will likely be high. Expect initial processing queues and follow IRCC announcements for updated forms, supporting-document lists and timelines.
How GFK Immigration Inc. can help
If you or a family member believe you qualify under Bill C-3 — whether retroactively or prospectively — a licensed consultant can:
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Assess eligibility and build your documentary record
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Prepare and review your CIT-0001E proof-of-citizenship application
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Advise on evidence that clearly demonstrates a substantial connection to Canada
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Liaise with IRCC or assist with renunciation paperwork if needed
Book a one-on-one review with RCIC Gboyega Esan to get a tailored plan and avoid delays.
Contact:
Gboyega Esan — RCIC R708591
📞 +1 (647) 225-0092
✉️ gfkimmigrationconsultant@gmail.com
🌐 gfkimmigrationconsultant.com
115 George St, Suite 224, Oakville, ON L6J 0A2