Citizenship Through a Grandparent or Great Grandparent – Why NOW Is the Time to Act
Canada is on the verge of a major shift in its citizenship laws. For people with Canadian ancestry, this could open the door to applying for citizenship not just through a parent or grandparent, but potentially even through a great-grandparent or earlier generations.
Bill C-3: A Game Changer for Descendants of Canadians
Bill C-3, which replaces the earlier Bill C-71, introduces significant amendments to the Citizenship Act- particularly around the restrictive first-generation limit.
Currently, citizenship by descent is limited to just the first generation born abroad. Under Bill C-3, that limitation would be lifted, potentially making citizenship available to second, third, fourth, or even fifth-generation descendants of Canadian citizens.
The bill has not yet passed, but it is expected to become law. The government has until November 2025 to implement legislation following the Bjorkquist et al. court decision.
Interim Measures and Invitations to Apply
In the meantime, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) is applying interim measures to handle urgent cases. Applicants are already being invited to apply for citizenship through a discretionary grant, particularly when they can show urgent or compelling reasons.
At Immigroup, we’re encouraging clients with ancestral ties- whether through grandparents, great-grandparents, or earlier generations- to begin preparing their applications now.
Submitting early, with strong evidence of urgency or hardship, increases your chances. IRCC is actively reviewing these cases and issuing invitations to apply for Canadian citizenship, even before the law is finalized.
Discretionary Citizenship Through a Grandparent: What It Means When You’re Invited to Apply
Under section 5(4) of the Citizenship Act, the Minister of Immigration can grant Canadian citizenship in exceptional cases. It’s not automatic, and it’s not guaranteed, but it can be a powerful option when someone has a compelling connection to Canada, such as being the grandchild or great grandchild of a Canadian citizen, and would not otherwise qualify under the regular rules.
Receiving an invitation to apply for discretionary citizenship is an important step forward. It shows that Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has reviewed your situation and believes you may have a strong enough connection to Canada, often through a Canadian grandparent to be considered for citizenship outside the usual process.
However, this is not a final approval. You will still need to submit a complete application, including supporting documents and a clear explanation of:
- Your connection to Canada
- The hardship or unfairness caused by previous citizenship rules
- Why your case merits an exception under the discretionary process
Why You Shouldn’t Wait
Once Bill C-3 passes, there will likely be a surge in applications, which could slow down processing significantly.
Right now, the government has more flexibility through discretionary authority. That window may close or become much stricter, once the bill becomes law and the volume of applicants explodes.
The key message: Act now.
If you think you may qualify for citizenship through a parent, grandparent, or great-grandparent, now is the time to act. Start collecting documents, seek legal advice, and prepare your application under the current interim rules.
How We Can Help
At Immigroup, we are actively helping clients prepare their applications whether through interim discretionary options or in anticipation of Bill C-3. We also assist in obtaining essential documents, including historical Canadian citizenship records.
We believe Canadians with generational ties abroad deserve a fair opportunity to reclaim their citizenship. This legislation is a step in that direction but acting quickly is key.
Contact Us
If you have a Canadian ancestor and want to know if you’re eligible, don’t wait. Book a consultation with our team and take the first step toward securing your Canadian citizenship today.
