One of the most significant changes in Canadian legislation in recent years is the entry into force of Bill C-3. On December 15, 2025, this dream became a reality for thousands of foreigners waiting for a reform that would change the rules for passing on citizenship by descent.

In this blog, I will break down the technical aspects of the new rule and clearly explain the procedure that those who are now eligible for official recognition as citizens must follow. Read on to the end and learn about your new rights in Canada.

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The before and after of citizenship by descent

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Historically, Canada limited citizenship by descent to the first generation born abroad. This meant that if a Canadian citizen born outside the country had a child abroad, that child did not automatically receive citizenship.

The new legislation of December 15, 2025 removes this restriction. From now on, the transmission of citizenship is based on a "substantial connection" to the country. To pass on citizenship to their children, foreign-born Canadian parents must prove that they physically resided in Canada for a cumulative total of 1,095 days (3 years) prior to the child's birth.

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Universal scope of change

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This change resolves situations that affected people from all walks of life, including international figures such as Madonna and Hillary Clinton. Their cases, which were previously limited by the rules of descent, now find a way to be resolved under the same criteria applicable to any other citizen. This confirms that the reform is not an exceptional measure, but rather an update to the law to reflect the reality that affected an entire society.

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Procedure for obtaining citizenship

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For those who are now eligible under Bill C-3, the process focuses on applying for a Citizenship Test. To proceed, the following must be taken into account:

• Those who already had applications open under the temporary measures of 2023 do not need to restart their application; IRCC (Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada) will automatically review their case, applying the new rules in their favor. Their application will continue to follow its normal course, but now with the benefits of the current law.
• The main focus is to prove that the parent has resided in Canada for three years. To do this, documents such as pay stubs or letters of employment, educational certificates, tax returns, or any official document confirming that the person was physically present in Canada during that time can be used.
• Restoration of lost citizenship. This law also opens a door for those who lost their Canadian citizenship in the past due to old rules that no longer make sense today. 

Important: If the latter is your case, the new law allows you to request that your rights be restored and to be officially recognized as a Canadian citizen again. At Immiland Law, we have Canadian lawyers and regulated consultants who can advise you on how to start your application. Click to request a quote.

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Outlook and projections for 2026

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The implementation of this law is expected to change Canadian demographics and politics starting in 2026. Specifically in these areas:

1. Strengthening the Canadian community around the world. Thanks to the government now quickly processing backlogged applications, thousands of families living outside the country will finally be able to vote in elections and more easily apply for residency for their family members (spouses or partners), no matter where in the world they are located.
2. Equal rights for all citizens. With Law C-3, the confusion of having "first- and second-class citizens" is over. 
3. Greater freedom to live and work abroad. This reform allows Canadian professionals to accept job opportunities in other countries with complete peace of mind. They will no longer have to fear that their children will be born without legal protection or without their parents' nationality.

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In conclusion, Canada is opening up to its citizens around the world. Families will now remain legally united, and rights will pass from parents to children without unnecessary restrictions. This is excellent news for those who have always felt Canadian at heart and will now be able to be so in the eyes of the law as well.

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Do you think you or your children might qualify for citizenship under these new "substantial connection" rules? At Immiland Law, we are ready to evaluate your case.

Click here to schedule your consultation with Immiland Law

Thank you for reading and staying informed with us. We look forward to seeing you on our next blog!

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With love,

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Immiland Law Professional Corporation