Canada has taken a major step toward modernizing its citizenship framework as Bill C-3, an Act to amend the Citizenship Act, officially came into force on December 15, 2025. The new legislation removes long-standing restrictions that prevented many Canadian citizens from passing citizenship to their children born outside the country, a change that directly affects families living, studying, or working abroad.

For years, advocacy groups and affected families argued that the previous rules no longer reflected how Canadians live in an increasingly globalized world. With Bill C-3 now in effect, the federal government has moved to restore fairness, clarity, and consistency to citizenship by descent.

What Bill C-3 Changes in Canadian Citizenship Law

At the heart of Bill C-3 is the repeal of restrictive provisions tied to the first-generation limit, which was introduced in 2009. Under that rule, a child born or adopted outside Canada could not automatically receive Canadian citizenship if their Canadian parent had also been born or adopted abroad.

As of December 15, 2025, individuals born before this date who would have been citizens if not for the first-generation limit or other outdated rules are now legally recognized as Canadian citizens. These individuals can apply for proof of citizenship without having to submit new or special applications.

Looking forward, the amended Citizenship Act also creates a clear and predictable pathway for future generations. Canadian parents who were born or adopted abroad can now pass citizenship to their children born or adopted outside Canada, provided they can demonstrate three years of physical presence in Canada before the child’s birth or adoption.

Why the First-Generation Limit Was Controversial?

The first-generation limit was widely criticized for producing unequal outcomes. Canadian citizens working abroad in diplomacy, international business, education, humanitarian aid, or research often found that their children were excluded from citizenship, despite strong and ongoing ties to Canada.

In December 2023, the Ontario Superior Court of Justice ruled that key sections of the Citizenship Act related to the first-generation limit were unconstitutional. The court found that the law created unfair distinctions between children based solely on where their parents were born. The federal government chose not to appeal the decision, acknowledging that the legislation had unacceptable consequences.

Who Benefits from the New Rules?

Bill C-3 affects several groups of people, including:

• Canadians who lost citizenship or never received it due to historical gaps in the law
• Children born abroad to Canadian parents
• Families who maintain strong social, cultural, and economic ties to Canada while living overseas

Past reforms restoring citizenship led to approximately 20,000 individuals coming forward to seek proof of citizenship. With Bill C-3 now in effect, that number is expected to grow as more families become aware of their eligibility.

What Applicants Should Know

IRCC has confirmed that people who previously submitted citizenship applications do not need to reapply. Applications will be processed using the updated rules. New applicants should be prepared to provide documentation confirming parental citizenship and proof of physical presence in Canada, where required.

Families are encouraged to review their eligibility carefully, as documentation requirements may vary depending on individual circumstances.

Why This Change Matters for Canada

By updating its citizenship laws, Canada is acknowledging the realities of global mobility while preserving the principle that citizenship should reflect a genuine connection to the country. The new framework balances inclusivity with accountability, ensuring that citizenship by descent remains meaningful and fair.

For many families, Bill C-3 represents long-awaited recognition and a restored sense of belonging within the Canadian community.

The coming into force of Bill C-3 marks a significant milestone in Canada’s citizenship history. By ending restrictive rules that no longer reflected modern family life, the government has strengthened ties with Canadians abroad and ensured future generations are not excluded due to outdated legislation. For assistance with citizenship eligibility, proof applications, or long-term immigration planning, ImmigCanada immigration consulting services offer trusted guidance from the best RCIC in Canada.