Canada Passes Bill C-3, Providing a Clear Pathway to Citizenship for Many

Lakshmi

Updated On Dec 16, 2025

Bill C-3 is officially enacted in Canada, expanding citizenship by descent and addressing long-standing gaps caused by the FGL. This new law restores/grants citizenship to thousands of lost Canadians & outlines eligibility rules for future generations.

Canada Passes Bill C-3, Providing a Clear Pathway to Citizenship for Many

Thousands of Canadians who were previously exempted from Citizenship due to the First-Generation Limit (FGL) have now gained the eligibility to reclaim their status under the newly enacted legislation.

On December 15, 2025, Bill C-3, which is an act to amend the Citizenship Act, officially came into force. Immigration Minister Lena Metlege Diab shared her comments on that change, stating that “the legislation reinforces Canada's connection with its citizens worldwide while also reflecting the country's core values of inclusion and fairness.”

Expanded Eligibility for Canadian Citizenship

Under the amended law, individuals born before December 15, 2025, who would have been Canadian citizens, if not for First-Generation Limit (FGL) or other outdated provisions, are now formally recognised as Canadians, and may proceed to apply for proof of citizenship.

For individuals born outside Canada, on or after December 15, 2025, to at least one Canadian parent who was also born abroad, the citizenship eligibility applies if

The parent was a Canadian citizen at the time of the child's birth
The parents satisfy the substantial connection to Canada requirement

To meet this requirement, the Canadian parent must demonstrate at least 3 years (1,095 days) of physical presence in Canada before childbirth.

Following the amendment, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) will continue processing applications submitted under the interim measures introduced in 2023, which are now aligned with the new legal framework. Applicants who have already been filled under these interim measures will not be required to reapply.

Explore the Updated IRCC Canada Visa Processing Times OUT for December 2025

Who Else May Benefit From Changes?

Depending on individual circumstances, the updated Citizenship Act may also grant or restore citizenship to:

Individuals born outside Canada to a parent who was already a Canadian citizen at the time of birth.
Individuals whose parents gained citizenship as a result of the new Amendments.
Those who previously lost their Canadian citizenship under the former rules.

Also Read: Canada Implements New Immigration Fee Changes From Decemeber 2025

Key Benefits of Canadian Citizenship

Compared to permanent residents, Canadian citizens enjoy exclusive rights and privileges, including:

The right to vote in federal, provincial, and municipal elections.
An unconditional right to enter and remain in Canada without inadmissibility concerns.
Greater flexibility in sponsoring a spouse or common-law partner for permanent residence
Eligibility for certain political and government job roles, requiring security clearance
Access to a Canadian passport

Verify Your Eligibility for Canadian Citizenship With GetGIS Assistance

The passing of Bill C3 marks a significant step towards correcting past exclusions and strengthening citizenship rights for Canadians worldwide. If you also believe that you or your family members may benefit from these changes, seeking expert guidance can help ensure a smooth application process. For personalised support and end-to-end assistance, reach out to GetGIS for reliable Canada Immigration expertise

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