Bill C-3 and Canadian Citizenship by Descent: What the 2025 Citizenship Act Changes Mean for Lost Canadians

 

Canada’s citizenship laws have undergone a historic transformation. With Bill C-3 – An Act to amend the Citizenship Act officially in force as of December 15, 2025, thousands of families worldwide may now qualify for Canadian citizenship by descent after decades of exclusion. These Citizenship Act Canada amendments mark a critical step toward fairness, equality, and restoring rights to the so-called Lost Canadians.

At New Jain Immigration Services, we help individuals and families understand how these Canadian citizenship law changes 2025 affect their eligibility and guide them through the application process with confidence.

Understanding Canadian Citizenship by Descent and the First-Generation Limit

Citizenship by descent Canada allows individuals born outside Canada to claim automatic Canadian citizenship through a Canadian parent. However, for years, this right was restricted by the first-generation limit, which prevented Canadian citizens born abroad from passing citizenship to their children also born outside Canada.

This rule resulted in many families being denied status, including children and grandchildren of Canadian citizens — despite strong ties to Canada. As a result, thousands were left without recognition, becoming known as Lost Canadians.

The December 2023 Ruling That Changed Everything

In December 2023, the Ontario Superior Court delivered a landmark decision declaring the first-generation limit unconstitutional. The court ruled that the restriction violated Section 15(1) Charter equality rights under the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms, as it unfairly discriminated based on place of birth.

This Canadian citizenship ruling December 2023 found that the existing Citizenship Act amendments failed to reflect modern Canadian families, many of whom live, work, or serve abroad.

In January 2024, the federal government confirmed it would not appeal the decision, paving the way for legislative reform.

Bill C-3 Citizenship Act: What Changed in 2025?

With Bill C-3 Citizenship Act now law, Canada has taken decisive action to correct historical injustices.

Key Changes Under Bill C-3

• The first-generation limit struck down
• Expanded citizenship by descent eligibility
• Restoration of citizenship to many Lost Canadians
• Clear pathways for Canadian citizenship for grandchildren born abroad
• New rules for citizenship for children born abroad

These reforms modernize Canadian parent citizenship rules and recognize multigenerational Canadian families living outside the country.

Who Qualifies for Canadian Citizenship by Descent Now?

One of the most common questions we receive is: Who qualifies for Canadian citizenship by descent under Bill C-3?

You may be eligible if:

• You were born outside Canada to a Canadian parent
• Your parent was previously unable to pass citizenship due to the first-generation limit
• Your citizenship was denied due to first-generation limit rules
• You are a grandchild of a Canadian citizen affected by outdated laws

These new rules for citizenship by descent Canada apply retroactively in many cases, allowing individuals to restore Canadian citizenship Bill C-3 provisions were designed to protect.

The Substantial Connection to Canada Test Explained

While Bill C-3 expands eligibility, it also introduces safeguards to maintain meaningful ties to Canada.

One such safeguard is the substantial connection to Canada test, which may apply in future generations.

What Is the 1,095-Day Physical Presence Requirement?

Under proposed rules, Canadian citizens born abroad who wish to pass citizenship to their children may need to demonstrate:

• 1,095 days of physical presence in Canada (three years)
• Proof of residence, employment, or education
• Evidence of ongoing connection and contribution

This ensures Canadian citizenship law balances inclusivity with national identity and responsibility.

What This Means for Canadian Families Living Abroad

These changes are especially impactful for:

• Canadian citizenship for families living abroad
• Children of diplomats, military personnel, and international workers
• Families previously excluded due to outdated policies

By eliminating discriminatory barriers, Canada has reaffirmed its commitment to citizenship fairness and equality, strengthening Canadian identity and belonging worldwide.

IRCC Citizenship Policy Updates and Interim Measures

Following Bill C-3’s enactment, IRCC citizenship policy updates and IRCC operational instructions are being rolled out to guide officers on application processing.

Key developments include:

• Interim citizenship measures for pending cases
• Citizenship application reassessment for previously refused files
• Updated documentation standards

Applicants may now request reconsideration if their case was refused under the old law.

Why Professional Guidance Matters

While the law has changed, the application process remains complex. Proving eligibility often requires:

• Proof of Canadian descent
• Historical citizenship records
• Citizenship documentation Canada requirements
• Evidence of physical presence Canada

Working with a Canadian citizenship consultant or Canadian immigration lawyer ensures your application is accurate, complete, and aligned with current IRCC policies.

At New Jain Immigration Services, we provide end-to-end citizenship application assistance, from eligibility assessment to document preparation and submission.

Canadian Citizenship Rights: A Step Toward Equality

Bill C-3 represents more than a legal amendment — it is a reaffirmation of citizenship rights Canada stands for. By correcting an unconstitutional citizenship law Canada, the government has addressed long-standing inequities and restored dignity to families previously excluded.

This moment reflects Canada’s evolving understanding of global mobility, modern families, and inclusive nationhood.

Get Expert Help from New Jain Immigration Services

If you or your family were affected by the first-generation limit Canada explained under previous laws, now is the time to act.

At New Jain Immigration Services, we specialize in:

• Canadian citizenship by descent cases
• Lost Canadian claims
• Citizenship reassessments
• Complex family citizenship histories

📞 Book a consultation today to find out if you qualify under Bill C-3 in force December 15, 2025 and take the next step toward securing your rightful Canadian citizenship.

Office Address:

23 Westmore Dr Unit 410, Etobicoke, On M9V 3Y6, Canada.

www.newjainimmigrationservices.ca

+1 (647) 676-1982

jaijainimmconsult@gmail.com

 


Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

Canada Start-Up Visa Program: A Pathway for Entrepreneurs and Refugees with New Jain Immigration Services

Image
  Canada has emerged as one of the most attractive destinations for entrepreneurs, innovators, and individuals seeking refuge. With its quality of life in Canada , world-class healthcare, education, and multicultural environment, the country provides a promising future for both foreign entrepreneurs and those pursuing refugee immigration services Canada . At New Jain Immigration Services , we specialize in helping individuals, families, and business professionals navigate the complex Canadian immigration system, whether it’s through the Canada Start-Up Visa Program , the refugee sponsorship program , or other immigration streams. Understanding the Canada Start-Up Visa Program The Canada Start-Up Visa Program is designed to attract foreign entrepreneurs with a qualifying business idea that has the potential for innovation , job creation , and positive impact on the Canadian economy . Unlike other visa options, this program focuses on building a thriving innovation eco...
Read more

Understanding the Four Divisions of Canada’s Immigration and Refugee Board: A Complete Guide

Image
The Immigration and Refugee Board of Canada (IRB) is Canada’s largest independent quasi-judicial tribunal. It plays a critical role in deciding who can remain in Canada and under what circumstances. The IRB operates without political interference, ensuring fairness and transparency in every decision it makes. Established under sections 151–169 of the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (IRPA) in 1989, the IRB handles complex cases related to refugee protection, admissibility, detention, and immigration appeals through its four specialized divisions: Refugee Protection Division (RPD ) Refugee Appeal Division (RAD) Immigration Division (ID) Immigration Appeal Division (IAD) 📌 Overview of the IRB: Key Facts Mandate: To deliver fair, timely, and transparent decisions on refugee claims, sponsorships, admissibility, and detention matters. Structure: Each of the four divisions is supported by legal services, registry staff...
Read more

Restoring Your Status in Canada: Understand Your Options and Act Fast

Image
Losing your immigration status in Canada can be a deeply stressful experience. Whether you're a visitor, student, or worker, being out of status in Canada can have serious implications, including the inability to legally work, study, or access essential services. Fortunately, Canada’s immigration law provides a second chance through the restorationof status process. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore what restorationof status in Canada means, common reasons individuals lose their status, recent policy changes affecting international students, key legal precedents, and how to avoid common pitfalls. If you need to apply for restoration of status in Canada, this article will provide the clarity you need. What is Restoration of Status in Canada? Restoration of status is a legal process that allows temporary residents—visitors, students, or workers—to regain their immigration status after it has expired. This process is not automatic and must be initiated by the applicant w...
Read more