Get Your Canadian Citizenship If either Of Your Parents Is/Was a Canadian Citizen
If you were born outside of Canada and at minimum one among your biological or lawful parents at the time of your birth was a citizen of Canada, you might be qualified for Canadian citizenship.
A “proof of Canadian citizenship” application, sometimes known as a “Canadian citizenship certificate” request, is how the Canadian government determines if you are a citizen.
Regardless of whether your Canadian parent is still alive or has passed away, you can file for citizenship certification at any point in your life. The first generation born outside of Canada or to a Canadian parent is the only generation that is eligible for citizenship by descent in Canada.
The Canadian citizenship document is one of only two papers approved by Passport Canada as evidence of Canadian citizenship, in addition to the Canadian birth certificate.
Application for a Canadian Citizenship Certificate
You must visit the Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website and obtain the application package if you want to seek a Canadian citizenship certificate. The cost of applying is roughly $75.
You must show IRCC proof that at least one of your parents was a Canadian citizen at the time of your birth. Accepted proof comprises:
- birth certificate for your parents
- Canadian citizenship card of your parents
- Canadian citizenship certificate for your parents
As long as your Canadian parent was given citizenship on or after April 17, 2009, or was born in Canada on or after February 15, 1977, you can submit your whole application online. Otherwise, a paper application must be sent.
The IRCC will check the application to ensure sure everything is in order after getting it and collecting the fee. After that, you will get an “acknowledgment of receipt.” The government will issue you a Canadian citizenship certificate once IRCC approves your application.
The proof of citizenship document entitles you to various benefits associated with being a Canadian citizen, including the ability to apply for a Canadian passport, participate in elections, and vote.
