What to Expect When Hiring an Immigration Consultant for Canadian Citizenship by Descent

 

What to Expect When You Hire an Immigration Consultant for Canadian Citizenship by Descent

Canadian citizenship by descent is an important pathway for individuals born outside Canada who have a Canadian parent or qualifying Canadian family connection. However, determining whether you qualify for Canadian citizenship is not always straightforward. Family history, parental citizenship status, birth records, previous citizenship laws and changes to the Canadian Citizenship Act can all affect your eligibility.

For individuals living outside Canada, understanding the citizenship application process and gathering the correct documents can become challenging. This is why many applicants consider hiring an immigration professional to guide them through the process.

If you are considering applying for Canadian citizenship by descent, working with an authorized immigration representative can help you understand your eligibility, organize your documents, prepare your application and respond to requests from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).

In this article, New Jain Immigration Services explains what to expect when hiring an immigration consultant or lawyer for Canadian citizenship by descent, what services they may provide, which documents you might need and how the application process works.

Understanding Canadian Citizenship by Descent

Canadian citizenship by descent generally refers to citizenship acquired through a Canadian parent rather than through being born in Canada or becoming a citizen through naturalization.

For example, if you were born in another country and one of your parents was a Canadian citizen when you were born, you may already be a Canadian citizen. In certain circumstances, citizenship may also extend to individuals born outside Canada to parents who were themselves born or adopted abroad.

However, eligibility depends on the circumstances of each family and the citizenship legislation applicable to the applicant’s birth or adoption.

A significant development occurred on December 15, 2025, when Bill C-3, An Act to Amend the Citizenship Act (2025), came into effect. The legislation changed the first-generation limit to citizenship by descent and expanded eligibility for many individuals born outside Canada.

Under the new rules:

• Individuals born outside Canada before December 15, 2025, may have automatically acquired Canadian citizenship if they were previously excluded by the first-generation limit.
• Individuals born or adopted outside Canada on or after December 15, 2025, may qualify for citizenship through a Canadian parent born or adopted abroad if that parent demonstrates at least 1,095 days of physical presence in Canada before the child’s birth or adoption.
• Certain individuals previously affected by outdated citizenship provisions may also benefit from the legislative changes.

These changes make it important to review family history and the applicable citizenship rules before submitting an application.

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1. Initial Consultation and Eligibility Assessment

One of the first things to expect when hiring an immigration consultant or lawyer is an initial consultation.

During this discussion, the immigration professional will generally ask questions about your family background, place of birth, parents’ citizenship status and relevant dates.

The purpose is to understand how your family connection to Canada may affect your citizenship eligibility.

Some questions may include:

• Were you born in Canada or outside Canada?
• Was either of your parents a Canadian citizen when you were born?
• Was your Canadian parent born in Canada or outside Canada?
• Did your parent acquire Canadian citizenship through naturalization?
• Were your grandparents Canadian citizens?
• When were you born?
• Were you adopted, and if so, when and where did the adoption take place?
• Has anyone in your family previously applied for Canadian citizenship?

The answers help determine which citizenship rules apply to your circumstances.

An immigration professional may also identify whether your case involves the first-generation limit, the new Bill C-3 provisions, historical citizenship legislation or another citizenship category.

Why this step matters: Applying under the wrong citizenship category or misunderstanding the applicable law can lead to delays, additional document requests or refusal.

2. Reviewing Your Family History and Citizenship Documents

Canadian citizenship by descent applications often require more than simply showing that you have a Canadian parent or grandparent.

IRCC may need reliable evidence establishing the relationship between each generation and demonstrating the Canadian citizenship of the relevant ancestor.

An immigration professional may review your family history and identify the records required to establish your citizenship claim.

These documents may include:

• Your birth certificate.
• Your Canadian parent’s birth certificate.
• Your parent’s Canadian citizenship certificate.
• Your grandparents’ birth certificates, where relevant.
• Marriage certificates or legal name-change documents.
• Adoption records, where applicable.
• Historical citizenship or naturalization documents.
• Other official records establishing parentage and citizenship.

The documentation required depends on your individual circumstances.

For example, an applicant whose parent was born in Canada may have a different documentation requirement from someone whose Canadian parent was born abroad and acquired citizenship through descent.

IRCC requires authentic, reliable and verifiable records for each relevant generation. Third-party records alone are not sufficient to establish the claim.

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3. Understanding the First-Generation Limit and Bill C-3 Changes

An important part of professional guidance involves understanding how changes to Canadian citizenship law affect your application.

Previously, Canada’s first-generation limit generally prevented a Canadian citizen who was born or naturalized outside Canada from automatically passing citizenship to a child who was also born outside Canada.

This restriction created difficulties for many Canadian families living internationally.

Bill C-3 changed the rules on December 15, 2025.

For people born outside Canada before this date, the new legislation restored or granted citizenship to many individuals who were previously excluded by the first-generation limit.

For people born or adopted outside Canada on or after this date, a Canadian parent who was also born or adopted abroad generally needs to demonstrate at least 1,095 days of physical presence in Canada before the child’s birth or adoption.

An immigration professional can help assess:

• Whether the previous first-generation limit affected your case.
• Whether you became a Canadian citizen automatically under the new legislation.
• Whether your parent meets the substantial connection requirement.
• Whether you need a citizenship certificate or a direct grant of citizenship.
• Whether historical citizenship records are relevant to your application.

Understanding these distinctions is particularly important for applicants whose parents or grandparents were born outside Canada.

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4. Preparing the Canadian Citizenship Certificate Application

Once your eligibility and family documentation have been reviewed, the next step is preparing an application for a Canadian citizenship certificate.

A citizenship certificate is official proof that you are a Canadian citizen. It is particularly important for individuals who acquired citizenship through a Canadian parent but were born outside Canada.

An immigration consultant or lawyer may assist with:

• Identifying the appropriate application category.
• Reviewing the applicable IRCC application guide.
• Completing the required application forms.
• Checking personal and family information.
• Organizing supporting documents.
• Preparing explanations for unusual family circumstances.
• Reviewing the application before submission.
• Identifying missing or inconsistent information.

The application must accurately reflect your personal history and citizenship claim.

For example, differences in the spelling of names, incorrect birth dates, missing parental information or inconsistent family records may require additional explanations or supporting evidence.

A professional document review can help identify these issues before the application is submitted.

5. Assistance With Missing or Incomplete Documents

One of the most challenging parts of a Canadian citizenship by descent application is obtaining historical family documents.

Some applicants may not have access to their parents’ or grandparents’ original birth certificates. Others may have family records that were damaged, lost or issued in countries where obtaining official documents takes considerable time.

An immigration professional can help identify alternative records that IRCC may accept and explain how to request documents from the relevant authorities.

Depending on the circumstances, alternative evidence may include:

• Hospital birth records.
• Baptismal certificates.
• Census records.
• Records from physicians or midwives who witnessed a birth.
• Historical immigration records.
• Canadian naturalization certificates.
• Official civil registration records.

If official documents are unavailable, IRCC requires applicants to explain why they cannot provide them and demonstrate efforts made to obtain the records.

A representative can help organize this explanation and supporting evidence.

However, alternative documentation is assessed by IRCC, and providing it does not guarantee approval.

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6. Reviewing Foreign Documents and Translation Requirements

Many applicants seeking Canadian citizenship by descent live outside Canada. Their birth certificates, marriage certificates and other family documents may be issued in languages other than English or French.

IRCC generally requires documents in English or French. If your supporting records are in another language, you must provide the required translation and supporting translator documentation.

An immigration professional can review your documents and explain the translation requirements before submission.

Some important considerations include:

• Ensure the translation accurately reflects the original document.
• Use an acceptable translator.
• Include the required affidavit when applicable.
• Do not submit translations completed by yourself or a family member.
• Provide clear and readable colour copies of supporting documents.

Properly translated records can help IRCC understand your family history and assess the relationship between different generations.

7. Application Submission and Communication With IRCC

After the documents and forms are ready, your representative may help submit the citizenship certificate application through the appropriate online or paper process.

The correct submission method depends on your circumstances and the current IRCC application instructions.

For example, some applicants may qualify to apply online, while others must submit a paper application based on their age, citizenship history, parental circumstances or application category.

Once the application has been submitted, IRCC may:

• Confirm receipt of the application.
• Review the application and supporting records.
• Request additional documents.
• Ask for clarification about family relationships.
• Conduct additional verification.
• Make a final decision.

If you have formally appointed an authorized representative, they may communicate with IRCC on your behalf within the scope of the authorization you have provided.

However, hiring a representative does not guarantee faster processing or special consideration. IRCC makes the final decision on every application.

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8. Responding to Additional Document Requests

Not every citizenship application is processed without further questions.

IRCC may request additional documentation if the submitted records do not establish citizenship or parentage clearly enough.

For example, the immigration department may request:

• Additional birth certificates.
• Proof of a parent’s Canadian citizenship.
• Historical family records.
• Clarification of different names appearing in documents.
• Additional evidence of physical presence in Canada.
• Further information about adoption or parentage.

An immigration consultant or lawyer may help you understand the request, identify the relevant supporting evidence and prepare a response within the deadline specified by IRCC.

If your application involves the substantial connection requirement under Bill C-3, your representative may also help organize evidence of your Canadian parent’s physical presence in Canada before your birth or adoption.

The evidence must be accurate and supported by genuine records.

Responding carefully to an additional document request is important because incomplete responses can affect the assessment of your application.

9. Understanding Processing Times and Possible Delays

Another important thing to expect when hiring an immigration professional is guidance about processing times.

Citizenship certificate applications do not necessarily follow the same processing timeline. The time required may depend on application volumes, document availability, background verification and the complexity of the citizenship claim.

Applications involving multiple generations, historical citizenship legislation or missing family records may require additional review.

An immigration professional can help you understand the application stages and monitor communications from IRCC.

However, no representative can guarantee a specific processing time or promise approval by a particular date.

Applicants should also avoid making travel or other important plans based solely on an estimated processing timeline.

10. Receiving Your Canadian Citizenship Certificate

If IRCC approves your application and confirms that you are a Canadian citizen, you will receive a Canadian citizenship certificate.

This certificate serves as official proof of your Canadian citizenship.

Once you receive it, you can explore the next steps, including applying for a Canadian passport.

It is important to remember that a citizenship certificate and a Canadian passport are two different documents.

The citizenship certificate establishes your Canadian citizenship, while a passport is a travel document issued to eligible Canadian citizens.

If IRCC determines that you are not a Canadian citizen, it will issue a refusal letter explaining its decision.

Your representative may help you understand the decision and discuss any available next steps.

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What Is the Difference Between Hiring an Immigration Lawyer and an Immigration Consultant?

Applicants often use the terms immigration lawyer and immigration consultant interchangeably. However, they are different professional categories.

Both may provide immigration and citizenship advice and representation if they meet the applicable authorization requirements.

Immigration lawyer

An immigration lawyer is a legal professional who is a member in good standing of a Canadian provincial or territorial law society. Lawyers can provide legal advice and represent clients within their authorized practice.

Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant (RCIC)

An RCIC is an immigration and citizenship professional who is a member in good standing of the College of Immigration and Citizenship Consultants (CICC).

RCICs are authorized to provide immigration and citizenship advice and representation within their professional scope.

Which one should you choose?

Your choice depends on the complexity of your situation and the type of assistance you need.

For a straightforward citizenship certificate application, an authorized immigration consultant may be able to provide the required assistance.

For complicated legal disputes, litigation or matters requiring specialized legal representation, consulting an immigration lawyer may be appropriate.

Before hiring anyone, verify their professional authorization and good standing through the relevant regulatory body.

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How to Choose the Right Immigration Professional for Canadian Citizenship by Descent

Selecting the right representative is an important decision. Before signing an agreement, consider the following factors.

1. Verify professional authorization

If you are paying someone for immigration or citizenship advice, make sure they are authorized to provide those services in Canada.

2. Ask about citizenship application experience

Ask whether the professional has experience with proof of citizenship applications, citizenship by descent and historical citizenship rules.

3. Understand the service agreement

Request a written agreement explaining the services, professional fees and responsibilities.

4. Discuss your individual circumstances

Choose a representative who takes the time to understand your family history, citizenship background and documentation.

5. Understand the limitations

No consultant or lawyer can guarantee Canadian citizenship or control IRCC’s final decision.

6. Maintain access to your documents

Keep copies of your application forms, supporting documents, payment receipts and correspondence.

IRCC also makes clear that applicants remain responsible for the accuracy of their applications, even when they use a representative.

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Why Choose New Jain Immigration Services for Canadian Citizenship Guidance?

Understanding Canadian citizenship by descent can be challenging, especially when your family history involves several generations born outside Canada.

New Jain Immigration Services provides personalized Canadian immigration and citizenship guidance to individuals and families seeking assistance with their applications.

Based in Etobicoke, Toronto, Ontario, New Jain Immigration Services focuses on providing clear, straightforward and reliable immigration guidance.

Our services include assistance with:

• Canadian citizenship certificate applications.
• Citizenship by descent eligibility assessments.
• Proof of Canadian citizenship applications.
• Canadian citizenship documentation.
• Family sponsorship applications.
• Permanent residence applications.
• Work permits and study permits.
• Visitor visa applications.
• Other Canadian immigration matters.

Whether you are exploring eligibility through a Canadian parent or trying to understand the impact of the latest citizenship law changes, receiving appropriate guidance can help you understand the available options.

If you are looking for a Canadian citizenship consultant in Toronto or an immigration consultant in Etobicoke, contact New Jain Immigration Services to discuss your citizenship application requirements.

Frequently Asked Questions About Canadian Citizenship by Descent

1. Can I get Canadian citizenship if my grandparent was born in Canada?

You may qualify depending on your family history, dates of birth and the citizenship status of your parent. The citizenship law changes effective December 15, 2025, expanded eligibility for many second-generation and later-generation applicants.

2. Do I need an immigration lawyer to apply for Canadian citizenship by descent?

No. Hiring a representative is optional. You can apply independently using IRCC’s official instructions. You may also hire an authorized Canadian immigration lawyer or regulated immigration consultant for assistance.

3. What is the first-generation limit to Canadian citizenship by descent?

It was a rule that generally restricted Canadian citizens born or naturalized outside Canada from passing citizenship automatically to children also born outside Canada. Bill C-3 changed these restrictions effective December 15, 2025.

4. What documents are required for citizenship by descent?

Common documents include your birth certificate, your Canadian parent’s birth or citizenship certificate, supporting family records and documents establishing parentage across relevant generations. Additional records may be required depending on your circumstances.

5. Can I apply for Canadian citizenship if my parent was born outside Canada?

Yes, you may qualify. For people born before December 15, 2025, the new law provides citizenship to many previously excluded individuals. For births on or after that date, the substantial connection requirement generally applies to a Canadian parent also born or adopted abroad.

6. How long does Canadian citizenship by descent take?

Processing times vary depending on IRCC’s application volumes, document verification and individual circumstances. Applicants should check the official IRCC processing-time information for the latest estimate.

7. Can an immigration consultant help with a citizenship certificate application?

Yes. An authorized immigration consultant who is a member in good standing of the CICC can provide citizenship application advice and representation within their authorized scope.

8. Can I apply for a Canadian passport after receiving my citizenship certificate?

Yes. Once you have received proof of Canadian citizenship, you can apply for a Canadian passport, provided you meet the applicable passport requirements.

Conclusion

Understanding Canadian citizenship by descent eligibility is essential for individuals seeking Canadian citizenship through parents. With the Bill C-3 citizenship changes 2025 bringing important updates to the first generation limit Canada, many individuals may now have new opportunities to establish their Proof of Canadian citizenship. Whether you need guidance with a Citizenship certificate application Canada, document preparation or Canadian citizenship application assistance, New Jain Immigration Services provides personalized immigration guidance to help you understand the process. If you are looking for a reliable Canadian citizenship consultant Toronto, Citizenship consultant Etobicoke or experienced Immigration consultant Toronto, our team can help you understand your available options. Contact New Jain Immigration Services for professional guidance from a trusted Canadian citizenship consultant Ontario. If your circumstances require legal representation, you may also consult an authorized Canadian citizenship lawyer to discuss your case and next steps.