On May 23, 2024, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) introduced Bill C-71, a significant legislative change aimed at extending Canadian citizenship beyond the first generation. This new bill will automatically grant citizenship to individuals born abroad to Canadian parents, providing a straightforward path to citizenship for many who have previously been excluded.

Bill C-71 also encompasses children adopted by Canadian parents abroad, ensuring they too are recognized as Canadian citizens. A key condition for parents born abroad is that they must have spent at least 1,095 days (approximately three years) in Canada before their child's birth or adoption to be eligible to pass on citizenship. This provision ensures that there is a tangible connection to Canada, reinforcing the bond between the country and its citizens, regardless of where they were born.

In addition to these measures, Bill C-71 aims to address the issue of “Lost Canadians” by restoring citizenship to them and their descendants. “Lost Canadians” include individuals born abroad to Canadian parents in the second or subsequent generations who previously lost their citizenship due to the complexities of the former legislation. This restoration effort underscores Canada's commitment to inclusivity and to recognizing the rightful status of all its citizens.

This legislative development represents a significant step towards broadening the scope of Canadian citizenship and ensuring that the rights and privileges of being Canadian are accessible to more individuals with Canadian heritage.

If you or your family could benefit from this new legislation, Global Opportunities is here to help. Contact us today to learn more about how Bill C-71 might impact your citizenship status and how we can assist you in your journey to becoming a Canadian citizen. Contact us for personalized guidance and support.