Rising American demand for Canadian citizenship proof doubles wait times

A sharp rise in applications from Americans seeking proof of Canadian citizenship has pushed wait times to nearly double compared to last year. Many applicants now face delays as interest grows following a major legal change introduced late in 2025.

Four months ago, millions of people in the United States became eligible for Canadian citizenship. Today, many of them have begun applying for official proof, creating long queues.

Law change opens doors for millions

In December 2025, Canada removed the limit on how many generations can pass down citizenship. This decision allows anyone born before December 15, 2025, to claim Canadian citizenship if they can trace their family line back to a Canadian ancestor without breaks.

This change has brought new attention to family histories, especially in the United States. A large number of Americans have Canadian roots due to migration that took place more than a century ago.

Between 1840 and 1930, around 900,000 Canadians moved to the United States, many settling in New England and parts of the Midwest. This movement, often called the “great hemorrhage,” shaped communities across both countries.

Today, that history matters again. Experts estimate that about one in four people in New England may now qualify for Canadian citizenship. Across the United States, the total number of eligible individuals reaches into the millions.

Growing interest without urgency

Recent figures show a noticeable increase in applications in early 2026. Many applicants do not plan to move to Canada right away. Instead, they see citizenship as a valuable option for the future.

Dual citizenship offers clear benefits. It allows individuals to live and work in Canada without restrictions. It also provides access to a Canadian passport, which offers strong travel freedom worldwide. At the same time, holding Canadian citizenship does not affect a person’s American status or create new tax duties.

People from different backgrounds have shown interest. Retirees, business owners, and families all see new opportunities. Some consider travel, while others look at property or long-term relocation plans.

Processing delays continue to grow

The rise in applications has placed pressure on processing times. Authorities calculate wait times based on the number of applications already submitted, the staff available, and expected future demand.

In mid-2024, applicants waited about three months for proof of citizenship. By mid-2025, that wait increased to five months. Today, it has reached around ten months.

Officials update these estimates regularly, and the numbers can rise quickly when demand increases.

A similar trend appeared in other immigration programs. For example, one worker program saw wait times grow from under a year to more than three years within months.

Applicants urged to act early

Experts warn that delays could continue to grow as more people apply. There is no limit on how many applications the system accepts. With millions now eligible, the number of submissions could rise sharply.

For those with Canadian family roots, timing may prove important. Applying sooner could help avoid longer delays in the future.