Canada has taken a significant step toward modernizing its citizenship laws, addressing longstanding gaps that have left many families uncertain about their eligibility for Canadian citizenship. With the passage of Bill C-3 and royal assent, Canadians who were previously excluded now have a clearer framework for passing citizenship to their children born or adopted abroad.
These reforms are particularly important for families affected by the first-generation limit, as well as those often referred to as “Lost Canadians.” Bill C-3 represents a much-needed shift, allowing more families to regain citizenship rights that were previously inaccessible.
Understanding the Background: The First-Generation Limit
Since 2009, Canadian citizenship by descent has only applied to the first generation born abroad.
This means:
If a Canadian parent was born in Canada (or naturalized before their child’s birth), their child born abroad was eligible for citizenship.
But if the parent was also born abroad to a Canadian, their child born abroad, the second generation — could not inherit citizenship.
This rule left many children and grandchildren of Canadians without access to citizenship, despite deep family ties to Canada.
What Bill C-3 Changes
Bill C-3 brings about important changes to correct the exclusionary impact of the first-generation limit, ensuring a more inclusive and fair approach to Canadian citizenship.
Automatic Citizenship for Those Affected by the First-Generation Limit
Once Bill C-3 comes into force (December 15, 2025), individuals born abroad who were previously excluded under the old first-generation rule will automatically become citizens of descent. This is a crucial step toward addressing the historical unfairness that left many “Lost Canadians” without access to their Canadian citizenship.
New Rules for Future Generations Born Abroad
For children born or adopted after Bill C-3 is implemented, Canadian parents who were born or adopted abroad will be able to pass citizenship to their children born abroad — provided they can demonstrate a meaningful connection to Canada. This connection is defined as 1,095 cumulative days (approximately 3 years) of physical presence in Canada prior to the child’s birth or adoption. The new requirement ensures that citizenship by descent reflects both fairness and a genuine connection to the country.
Adopted Children Included
Bill C-3 ensures that adopted children of Canadian parents will also be able to claim citizenship under the same rules. Whether a child is born abroad or adopted abroad, the process for passing on citizenship will be the same.
Citizenship Restored for Those Who Lost It Under Previous Laws
Under the previous laws, some individuals lost their citizenship due to outdated provisions, such as the former “retention” requirement. Bill C-3 will restore citizenship to those who lost it, ensuring they are no longer excluded from Canadian citizenship.
What’s Next: Implementation and What Families Should Know
As of December 15, 2025, Bill C-3 is officially in force, marking a significant milestone in Canada’s citizenship laws. Individuals who were previously excluded under the first-generation limit are now automatically recognized as Canadian citizens by descent, and parents who were born or adopted abroad can pass citizenship to their children born or adopted outside Canada, provided they meet the new physical-presence requirements.
While citizenship is automatic under the law, affected individuals must still apply for a citizenship certificate to obtain formal proof of their status. These changes provide clarity and fairness for families abroad, ensuring that more Canadians can fully exercise their rights and secure their connection to Canada.
Who Benefits from Bill C-3?
People born abroad to Canadian-citizen parents, who were previously excluded due to the first-generation limit.
Children born or adopted abroad to Canadian parents who themselves were born abroad, provided the parent meets the physical-presence requirement.
Individuals who lost their citizenship under outdated laws, such as the former retention provisions.
Why These Changes Matter
Citizenship is not just a legal status; it is an integral part of identity and long-term security. The reforms introduced by Bill C-3 bring fairness to the process of acquiring Canadian citizenship by descent, offering clarity for families living abroad.
While the framework is clearer, families may still have questions about eligibility, required documentation and the procedural steps to take once the law is officially in effect.
How Ackah Business Immigration Law Can Help
Navigating changes to Canadian citizenship laws can be complex. At Ackah Business Immigration Law, we provide guidance with honesty, clarity and care to help you understand your options and make informed decisions.
We assist with:
Understanding Your Options – Explore potential pathways to citizenship, including legislative changes and interim measures.
Document Preparation and Review – Ensure forms and supporting materials are accurate and complete.
Guidance on Timing and Process – Receive advice on procedural considerations, deadlines, and steps to take now versus after Bill C-3 comes into force.
Our goal is to help individuals, families and businesses navigate the process confidently, clarify complex rules and plan strategically. If your family may be affected by Bill C-3, we can help you understand your options and next steps. Reach out today, to learn more about working with our team!
