Bill C-3 Takes Effect, Brings Citizenship Hope to Lost Canadians

A major change to Canada’s citizenship law took effect on December 15, 2025. Bill C-3 officially became law and removed long-standing limits that blocked citizenship by descent. The change affects thousands of people who lost or never received Canadian citizenship due to outdated rules. Many families have waited years for this decision.

Minister of Immigration Lena Metlege Diab welcomed the new law. “This new legislation strengthens the bond between Canadians at home and around the world, and reaffirms the values we hold as a nation,” she said.

End of an Unfair Rule

For years, the first-generation limit prevented citizenship from passing to children born abroad. This rule affected Canadians whose parents were also born outside Canada. Many people lost their status despite strong family ties to the country. Others never gained citizenship at all.

In 2023, an Ontario court ruled the rule unconstitutional. The judge said it created unequal classes of citizens. The federal government accepted the decision and promised to update the law. Delays followed, but lawmakers finally passed Bill C-3 in November 2025.

Who Gains Citizenship Now

The new law recognizes people born before December 15, 2025, as Canadian citizens if past rules blocked them unfairly. These individuals can now apply for proof of citizenship. This change restores status to many who lived for years without legal recognition.

Children born abroad on or after December 15, 2025, may also qualify. At least one parent must hold Canadian citizenship at the time of birth. That parent must also meet a connection test. The test requires three years of physical presence in Canada before the child’s birth.

Applications and Processing

Immigration officials will process applications using the updated law. Applications submitted under temporary rules introduced in 2023 will continue. Applicants do not need to reapply. Officials will review each case based on the new criteria.

The law may also restore citizenship to people who lost it in the past. Others may gain citizenship through parents who qualify under the new changes. Each case will depend on personal circumstances.

Why Citizenship Matters

Canadian citizenship offers rights not available to permanent residents. Citizens can vote in elections and hold public office. They have the guaranteed right to enter Canada at any time. Citizenship also makes it easier to sponsor close family members. Citizens can apply for a Canadian passport and access consular help abroad.

What Comes Next

Officials expect a rise in citizenship applications. Families affected by past rules now prepare long-awaited paperwork. More guidance from immigration authorities will follow soon. The new law marks a major shift in how Canada defines citizenship by descent.