Canadian Citizenship Proof Waits Reach 15 Months Amid Backlog

The wait time for proof of Canadian citizenship certificates has increased to 15 months as of June 2026. Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) reports that roughly 82,000 applications are currently in the queue.

Sharp Rise in Applications

Since May 12, 2026, the queue has grown by 11,600 applications, up from 70,400. The increase reflects a surge in applications following changes to Canada’s citizenship laws under Bill C-3, passed in December 2025. Processing times have steadily risen from nine months at the law’s passage to the current 15 months.

Because IRCC estimates processing times based on the number of applications already in the queue, waits may continue to grow as more people apply.

Why the Spike Occurred

Bill C-3 removed the first-generation limit to citizenship by descent for individuals born before December 15, 2025. Those who qualify are already Canadian citizens, but they need the certificate as proof to obtain a passport and access other citizen rights.

Many U.S.-born individuals with Canadian ancestry have applied, seeking a second passport for travel flexibility or security. A Canadian passport now ranks seventh globally, offering visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 183 countries.

Practical Implications

Canadian citizenship allows holders to live, work, and buy property anywhere in Canada, and access public healthcare when residing there. It also carries no new worldwide income tax obligations for U.S. dual citizens.

Applicants should understand that waiting may not reduce the overall delay. Filing today places an applicant behind 82,000 others, and with ongoing demand, the queue is likely to grow. IRCC uses a forward-looking method for estimating processing times, considering current applications, available staff, and expected new submissions.

Application Process

Processing begins when IRCC receives a complete application, whether submitted online or by mail. Applicants should ensure their submissions are thorough and accurate to avoid delays. Complex cases, missing documents, or issues requiring interviews or admissibility checks may extend processing beyond the 15-month estimate.

Documentation needed includes birth certificates, marriage or death records, and proof of Canadian ancestry.

Who Qualifies

Anyone born before December 15, 2025, who can trace a continuous line of descent from a Canadian ancestor is considered a Canadian citizen under Bill C-3. It does not matter where they were born or whether their parents or grandparents lived in Canada or held Canadian passports.

Applicants uncertain of eligibility are encouraged to review family records, consult relatives, and gather all necessary documentation before applying.