Are you curious about Canadian citizenship? If you were born outside Canada but have a Canadian parent, you might be eligible for a Canadian citizenship certificate. This document is your ticket to proving your Canadian citizenship, especially when applying for a passport.

In this post, we'll walk you through who can apply for a citizenship certificate, how to do it, and the potential changes regarding citizenship by descent. Let's make sense of it all!

Who Can Apply?

If at least one of your parents was born in Canada or became a Canadian citizen before you were born, you likely can claim Canadian citizenship! This right is known as citizenship by descent. However, there are some rules to know.

The current law limits citizenship by descent to only the first generation born outside Canada. But don't worry—there are discussions about changing this! Stay tuned for updates on proposed reforms that could make it easier for descendants to claim their citizenship.

Applying for the Certificate

Interested in applying? First, check if you're a Canadian citizen using the IRCC's “Am I a Canadian?” tool for initial guidance. After that, gather the documentation, including ID and your application form. Don't forget—there's a fee of $75!

Keep in mind that the processing time can take at least five months, so plan ahead. Should you need your citizenship certificate urgently, be prepared to explain your situation in writing.

We hope this short guide sheds light on how to secure your Canadian citizenship certificate. If you have more questions or need help, don’t hesitate to reach out for a free legal consultation!