Big news for Canadian citizens born abroad! On December 18, the Ontario Superior Court of Justice decided to extend the deadline for changes to Canada’s first generation limit (FGL) by another three months. The new deadline? March 19, 2025!

The FGL makes it tricky for Canadians born outside of the country to pass their citizenship onto their children who are also born abroad. The court previously labeled these rules “unconstitutional,” as they create a “lesser class of citizenship.” This is the third extension we’ve seen, so stay tuned for more updates!

This year, Immigration Minister Marc Miller introduced Bill C-71, aimed at changing the Citizenship Act. If it passes, this bill would allow more Canadians living abroad to pass on their citizenship to their kids. Parents would need at least three years in Canada before their child is born or adopted to qualify.

There’s also talk of restoring citizenship for some “Lost Canadians” — those whose citizenship rights were curtailed by current laws. Exciting, right?

With a potential for 115,000 new citizens over the next five years, this is an important time in Canada’s citizenship journey. Plus, interim measures are in place to help some eligible individuals get a “discretionary grant of citizenship.”

Want to know how this might affect you? Schedule a free consultation with the Cohen Immigration Law Firm today!