Canada has officially expanded access to citizenship. On December 15, 2025, Bill C-3, An Act to Amend the Citizenship Act, came into force – marking one of the most significant citizenship reforms in decades.

The new law restores and grants Canadian citizenship to thousands of people previously excluded due to outdated rules, particularly the first-generation limit (FGL) on citizenship by descent. These individuals are often referred to as “Lost Canadians.”

According to Immigration Minister Lena Metlege Diab, the legislation “strengthens the bond between Canadians at home and around the world” and corrects long-standing inequities in citizenship law.

What Was the First-Generation Limit (FGL)?

Under the old Citizenship Act, Canadian citizens born outside Canada could not automatically pass citizenship to their children also born abroad. This second-generation restriction created two unequal classes of citizens and left many families without a clear pathway to citizenship.

In December 2023, the Ontario Superior Court ruled that these provisions were unconstitutional, stating they violated equality rights. Rather than appealing the decision, the federal government chose to amend the Citizenship Act – ultimately leading to Bill C-3.

Who Is Now Eligible for Canadian Citizenship Under Bill C-3?

1. People Born Before December 15, 2025

Anyone born before December 15, 2025, who would have been a Canadian citizen if not for the FGL or other outdated rules, is now recognized as Canadian and may apply for proof of citizenship.

This applies even if:

• You were previously denied citizenship
• You lost citizenship under earlier legislation
• Your parent was Canadian but unable to pass it on

No new application is required if you already applied under the interim measures introduced in 2023 – IRCC will reassess existing applications under the new law.

2. Children Born Abroad On or After December 15, 2025

Children born outside Canada after December 15, 2025, may now qualify for citizenship beyond the first generation, provided:

• At least one parent was a Canadian citizen at the time of birth, and
• That parent meets the “substantial connection to Canada” requirement

What Is the “Substantial Connection to Canada” Test?

To pass on citizenship, a Canadian parent must prove they were physically present in Canada for at least:

• 1,095 days (3 years)
• Before the child’s birth

This rule ensures a real and meaningful connection to Canada while allowing families abroad to maintain citizenship ties across generations.

Who Else May Regain or Receive Citizenship?

Depending on individual circumstances, Bill C-3 may also restore or grant citizenship to:

• People born abroad to a Canadian parent who became a citizen due to the new law
• Individuals who previously lost Canadian citizenship
• Children whose parents were citizens but affected by historical legislative gaps

Each case is fact-specific, which is why legal review is strongly recommended.

Why Bill C-3 Matters

Bill C-3 corrects decades of legislative inequity and brings Canada’s citizenship framework in line with constitutional principles. It removes arbitrary limits, promotes fairness, and reconnects families who were excluded due to technicalities rather than intent.

This change also reflects Canada’s modern reality – a globally mobile population with strong ties to the country, regardless of birthplace.

Benefits of Canadian Citizenship

Compared to permanent residents, Canadian citizens enjoy unique rights, including:

• The right to vote in federal and provincial elections
• Guaranteed entry into Canada with no risk of inadmissibility
• Greater flexibility to sponsor family members
• Eligibility for security-cleared positions
• Access to a Canadian passport, one of the strongest globally

For many affected individuals, Bill C-3 is not just a legal fix – it’s the restoration of identity and belonging.

What Should You Do Next?

If you believe you or your child may qualify under Bill C-3:

• Review your family’s citizenship history carefully
• Confirm dates of birth and parental citizenship status
• Seek professional guidance before applying for proof of citizenship

Mistakes or missing documents can delay or jeopardize your application, even under the new law.

Final Thoughts

Bill C-3 represents a historic shift in Canadian citizenship law. By removing the first-generation limit and restoring rights to thousands of “Lost Canadians,” Canada has taken a major step toward fairness, inclusion, and legal clarity.

If you’ve ever been told you weren’t Canadian – it may be time to check again