New Canadian Citizenship Law: Who Can Apply in 2026?

A new Canadian citizenship law is set to open the door for thousands of people to claim Canadian citizenship in 2026, following a major change to long-standing rules on citizenship by descent.

The legislation, which came into force in late 2025, removes the first-generation limit (FGL) on Canadian citizenship. Under the old rules, citizenship by descent was generally limited to the first generation born outside Canada, meaning children of Canadian citizens born abroad could not automatically pass on citizenship to their own children. It often forces affected families to apply for Canada PR instead of claiming citizenship directly.

With the new law now in effect, that restriction has been lifted for many individuals, significantly expanding eligibility for Canadian citizenship.

Book a Free Consultation

Who Benefits From New Canadian Citizenship Law?

The change primarily affects people born outside Canada who have a Canadian parent or grandparent, even if their parent did not hold Canadian citizenship at the time of their birth due to the previous first-generation limit.

Under the updated rules, individuals who were previously excluded from citizenship because of the FGL may now be eligible to apply for proof of Canadian citizenship. This includes people whose Canadian lineage traces back to a parent who was also born outside Canada.

Immigration experts estimate that thousands of people worldwide could qualify under the new provisions.

What Does Eligibility Mean?

Those who qualify under the new law are not required to apply for permanent residence or undergo the naturalization process. Instead, eligible individuals can apply directly for a citizenship certificate, which serves as official proof of Canadian citizenship.

Once the certificate is issued, applicants can then apply for a Canadian passport and enjoy full citizenship rights, including the right to live, work, and study in Canada without restrictions.

CRS Score Calculator

When Can Applicants Apply?

While the law is already in force, many affected individuals are expected to submit applications throughout 2026, as awareness grows and families gather documentation to prove their Canadian lineage.

Current Canada processing times for citizenship certificates are estimated at around 10 months, though delays are possible due to high demand.

Why was the Law Changed?

The removal of the first-generation limit follows years of legal challenges and criticism that the rule unfairly excluded Canadians born abroad from passing on their citizenship. Advocates argued the policy created unequal treatment between citizens based solely on birthplace.

The federal government has stated that the new law aims to make Canada’s citizenship framework more inclusive and fair, while maintaining the integrity of the citizenship system.

What Applicants Should Do Next?

Individuals who believe they may be eligible are encouraged to:

• Review their family history for Canadian parentage or grandparent age
• Gather birth certificates and proof of citizenship for Canadian ancestors
• Monitor official immigration guidance for updates on application procedures

As applications are expected to increase in the Canada Immigration levels plan 2026-2028, immigration professionals advise eligible individuals to prepare early to avoid delays.

Subscribe for FREE and stay updated
with the latest Canada Immigration News!

Source: canada.ca

Tags: New Canadian Citizenship Law Canadian Citizenship Law 2026 Canada citizenship eligibility 2026 Apply for Canadian citizenship Canada citizenship law Canada citizenship IRCC citizenship rules 2026 Canadian citizenship news 2026