Canada Streamlines Citizenship by Descent
The Canadian government has introduced Bill C-71, a new piece of legislation aimed at simplifying and expanding access to citizenship by descent.
Previously, citizenship was generally limited to the first generation born abroad to a Canadian parent. This created challenges for families with international connections. Bill C-71 addresses this by:
- Automatically granting citizenship: Individuals born abroad to a Canadian parent who was also born abroad before the legislation’s enactment will automatically receive Canadian citizenship.
- Extending direct citizenship applications: Children born outside Canada and adopted by a Canadian parent can now apply for direct citizenship regardless of generational limitations.
- Establishing residency requirements: Parents born abroad who wish to pass on citizenship to children born or adopted outside Canada after the legislation takes effect must have spent at least 1,095 cumulative days physically present in Canada beforehand.
Addressing Historical Inequities
Bill C-71 seeks to rectify past limitations imposed by 2009 legislation and restore citizenship to “Lost Canadians” who lost or never acquired it due to outdated laws. This includes their descendants and anyone born abroad to a Canadian parent in subsequent generations prior to the new law.
Fostering Integration and Inclusion
Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, Marc Miller, emphasizes the importance of these changes for fostering a sense of belonging in Canada, a nation built on inclusivity and multiculturalism.
“Canadian citizenship is a cornerstone of integration for many immigrants,” states Miller. “It embodies our democratic values, equality, and multicultural ethos.”
Looking Forward
The introduction of Bill C-71 underscores Canada’s commitment to a diverse and inclusive citizenship framework. Individuals potentially impacted by these changes are encouraged to monitor the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website for updates and eligibility details as the legislation progresses through Parliament.
This proposed change reflects the government’s dedication to maintaining the value of Canadian citizenship while adapting to the evolving needs of its global citizenry. If passed, these amendments will mark a significant step towards a more equitable and inclusive approach to citizenship by descent.
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