Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has confirmed that it is reviewing a limited number of citizenship certificates issued under Canada’s new citizenship by descent rules.
The reviews involve citizenship certificates issued under Bill C-3, which came into force on December 15, 2025. The legislation expanded access to Canadian citizenship by descent for many individuals previously affected by the first-generation limit, including certain people commonly referred to as ‘Lost Canadians.’
According to IRCC, a limited number of individuals who received citizenship certificates under Bill C-3 have been notified that their files are under review. The department has not disclosed how many people are affected or what specifically triggered the reviews.
Why Is IRCC Reviewing Citizenship Certificates?
IRCC has stated that the purpose of the review is to determine whether citizenship certificates were properly issued based on the evidence required by law. The department has also indicated that if a review confirms an individual is entitled to the certificate, it will be returned.
Immigration Minister Lena Metlege Diab has stated that Canadian ancestry alone does not automatically establish Canadian citizenship. According to the minister, applicants must be able to demonstrate their connection to Canada through each generation in their family line. She also stated that genealogy websites alone are not sufficient evidence for citizenship purposes.
The Importance of Supporting Documents
Citizenship by descent applications often require applicants to establish a documented chain of ancestry connecting them to a Canadian citizen.
Depending on the circumstances, applicants may need to provide birth certificates, death certificates, marriage records, and other historical documents for each generation in their family line. Missing records or gaps in documentation can create challenges when establishing eligibility for citizenship by descent.
While genealogy databases and family history websites may assist with research, applicants should carefully review IRCC’s documentary requirements and ensure that supporting evidence comes from reliable and verifiable sources. Official civil records, archival records, church records, and other documents issued by recognized authorities may be important in establishing eligibility and supporting a citizenship claim.
Because citizenship by descent cases often involve multiple generations, applicants should ensure that each link in their family lineage is properly documented. Incomplete records or unsupported gaps in ancestry may create difficulties when proving eligibility for Canadian citizenship.
What Does This Mean for Citizenship by Descent Applicants?
The reviews announced by IRCC do not affect all citizenship by descent applications. The department has stated that only a limited number of files are currently under review.
Individuals preparing citizenship by descent applications should take care to obtain complete and reliable documentation for each generation in their family line. Applicants who receive requests for additional information from IRCC should respond promptly and carefully review the department’s instructions.
Given the complexity of many citizenship by descent cases, obtaining official records early in the process may help reduce delays and support a more complete application.
Conclusion
IRCC’s review of certain citizenship certificates issued under Bill C-3 highlights the importance of providing strong documentary evidence when applying for proof of Canadian citizenship.
Although only a limited number of certificates are currently under review, the situation serves as a reminder that citizenship by descent applications must be supported by sufficient evidence that meets legal requirements. Applicants should ensure that their family lineage is properly documented and that supporting records come from reliable and verifiable sources.
Contact Information
If you have questions regarding citizenship by descent, proof of Canadian citizenship, Lost Canadians, citizenship certificates, or other Canadian immigration and citizenship matters, contact Jain Immigration Law today.
Jain Immigration Law
Phone: +1 (416) 548-5533
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.jainimmigrationlaw.com
Disclosure
The information contained in this article is provided for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Immigration laws, regulations, policies, operational procedures, and government requirements may change without notice. Readers should consult a qualified immigration professional regarding their individual circumstances before making immigration or citizenship-related decisions.