Canadian Citizenship – New Amendment for Second Generation

We’re excited to share an important update to Canadian citizenship rules particularly regarding citizenship by double descent. If you were born outside Canada and previously applied for citizenship through a parent, this development could directly impact you. You may now be able to pass on your Canadian citizenship to your children, even if they are also born abroad.

What has Changed?

The upcoming amendments to the Canadian Citizenship Act will allow individuals who obtained citizenship by descent to extend this right to their children. This is a significant step forward in making the transmission of Canadian citizenship more seamless across generations. Notably, first-generation individuals do not always need to hold citizenship themselves in order for their children (the second generation) to qualify.

These changes highlight the government’s commitment to inclusivity and reflect the realities of modern, global families. By enabling children born outside Canada to inherit citizenship more easily, the amendments embrace a forward-looking and equitable approach to Canadian nationality laws.

With such a major shift, many questions are bound to arise. Our goal is to provide you with clear, detailed guidance on what these changes mean, the steps to apply under the new framework, the eligibility requirements, and practical insights to help you navigate this important process.

Benefits of Becoming Canadian

• Right to Vote: Canadian citizens can take part in federal, provincial, territorial, and municipal elections. This right gives them a voice in the democratic process and the ability to help shape policies that affect their communities and the country as a whole.

 

• Access to Quality Education: Canada is recognized for its world-class education system, with many of its universities ranked among the best globally. Citizenship provides access to this high-quality education at domestic tuition rates, which are significantly lower than international fees. As the comparison chart shows, Canadian citizens enjoy much more affordable education costs compared to international students.

 

Country	Tuition Per Year	Living Expenses Per year
Canada	$7,076 CAD (Domestic)	$15,500-$17,800
Canada	$20,000-$45,000 (International)	$15,500-$17,800
United States	$32,000-$60,000 (Domestic)	$18,000-$25,000
United Kingdom	$17,000-$43,000 (International)	$21,700
Australia	$45,000 (International)	$16,700

• Unrestricted Travel: Canadian citizens can freely enter and leave Canada without needing a visa (TRV) or residency permit.
• Security Clearance: Citizenship makes it easier to qualify for jobs requiring high-level security clearances, particularly in government or sensitive industries.
• Economic Benefits: Citizens have access to government benefits, grants, scholarships, and social assistance programs not available to permanent residents or non-citizens.
• Government Employment Opportunities: Certain jobs in Canada are open only to citizens. Becoming a citizen expands your eligibility for these roles.
• Military Enrollment: To join the Canadian Armed Forces, you must be a citizen. The minimum age requirement is 17 (with parental consent) or 18 (without), in addition to meeting health and fitness standards.
• No Residency Obligation: Unlike permanent residents, Canadian citizens are not required to meet residency obligations to maintain their status.
• Right to Run for Office: Citizens can run for political office at municipal, provincial, and federal levels, allowing them to directly shape Canada’s future.
• Canadian Passport: Citizenship grants the right to a Canadian passport- one of the world’s most powerful travel documents, offering visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to many countries.
• Dual Citizenship: Canada recognizes dual citizenship, allowing you to retain your original nationality while becoming Canadian.
• Family Sponsorship: As a citizen, you can sponsor eligible family members to immigrate and join you in Canada.
• Retirement Benefits: Citizens retiring in Canada enjoy access to senior benefits, such as healthcare subsidies, tax credits, and transportation discounts.
• Property Ownership: Canadian citizens can freely purchase property in Canada. Current restrictions on foreign ownership of residential real estate remain in effect until January 1, 2027.
• Rental Advantages: While rental prices don’t differ between citizens and non-citizens, citizenship offers stability and security, making it easier to secure long-term leases.
• Consular Support Abroad: Canadian citizens can access assistance from embassies and consulates while traveling or living overseas.
• Cultural Belonging: Citizenship encourages deeper integration into Canadian society, fostering participation in cultural and community activities.
• Protection from Deportation: Citizens cannot be deported, except in cases where citizenship was obtained fraudulently.
• Sense of Belonging: Becoming a Canadian provides permanence, identity, and a stronger emotional connection to the country.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will I lose my birth citizenship?
Canada allows dual citizenship, so you won’t lose your Canadian status. However, some countries don’t permit dual nationality, so you may need to forfeit your original citizenship. Always check your home country’s rules.

If I applied through my parents, is the process the same now?
While forms may change with the amendment, historically (up to 2009) the process for applying through a grandparent was the same as applying through a parent.

Does the first generation need citizenship for the second to qualify?
Not necessarily. Proof of the grandparents’ Canadian citizenship and the family link may be enough to establish eligibility.

Do I need my grandparents’ birth certificate?
Yes. The grandparent’s birth certificate is critical to prove eligibility. Short-form certificates are usually accepted for grandparents, but long-form versions are required for parents and grandchildren to confirm family connections.

Does where I live matter when applying?
No. Your application is submitted through the Canadian embassy responsible for your country of residence.

How long does it take?
Processing times vary and often change. For first-time applications, expect an additional 6 months on top of standard timelines.