Understanding Bill C-3 – New Canadian Citizenship Law for Children Born Abroad
π New Canadian Citizenship Law: What Bill C-3 Means for You
Bill C-3, officially titled An Act to Amend the Citizenship Act (granting citizenship to certain persons), is a significant new law passed in June 2025. This legislation expands Canadian citizenship eligibility for children born abroad, even if their Canadian parent was also born outside Canada.
This amendment corrects long-standing restrictions and offers new pathways to obtain Canadian citizenship for second-generation individuals born outside the country.
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Why Bill C-3 Matters
Before Bill C-3, the Citizenship Act limited citizenship to only the first generation born abroad. This meant children:
β’ Born to Canadian citizens outside Canada
β’ Whose parents were also born abroad
β’ Lacked ties to Canada or had never lived there were often denied citizenship, resulting in hardship and statelessness.
Bill C-3 removes these restrictions, promoting fairness for Canadians living abroad and ensuring their children aren’t excluded.
π Key Changes Under Bill C-3
1. Second-Generation Born Abroad Are Now Eligible
Children born outside Canada to Canadian citizens who were themselves born abroad can now automatically become Canadian citizens or apply for proof of citizenship.
2. Retroactive and Future Application
The law applies retroactively, making previously ineligible children now eligible.
It also applies going forward, helping future generations born outside Canada.
3. Applies to Adopted Children
Canadian citizens who adopt children abroad can now pass on citizenship under expanded eligibility rules.
4. Restores Lost Citizenship Rights
Individuals who were previously denied or lost citizenship under old rules may now regain their status.
πΉ Who Should Apply Now?
You may qualify to apply for Canadian citizenship or proof of citizenship if:
β’ You’re a Canadian citizen living abroad
β’ You were born outside Canada to Canadian parents
β’ Your child or grandchild was born abroad and denied citizenship
β’ You’re seeking to sponsor or obtain a Canadian passport for an ineligible child
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How Jad Immigration Services Can Help
Our experienced team of licensed immigration consultants can:
β’ Evaluate your Bill C-3 eligibility
β’ Assist with proof of citizenship applications
β’ Reclaim lost citizenship rights
β’ Prepare travel and sponsorship documents for newly eligible children
π§ Email us: info@jadimmigration.com
π Call us: (613) 869-1897
Don’t miss your chance to secure your child’s Canadian future under the new citizenship law.