Parliament Approves New Law to Restore Citizenship to Lost Canadians
Canada has moved to correct a long-standing gap in its citizenship rules. Bill C-3 — legislation intended to fix the so-called “first-generation limit” — passed its final Senate reading on November 19, 2025. The bill now awaits royal assent before it becomes law.
Who benefits?
Thousands of people affected by the first-generation limit — commonly referred to as “lost Canadians” — stand to regain citizenship. The law will also set a framework for future cases so children born abroad can inherit citizenship under clearer conditions.
What changes under Bill C-3?
- Restoration: People born abroad before the law comes into force to a Canadian parent will have citizenship by descent restored.
- Future births: For children born or adopted abroad after the law is in force, citizenship by descent will be granted if the Canadian parent demonstrates a substantial connection to Canada — defined as having spent at least 1,095 days physically present in the country before the child’s birth or adoption.
Why did this change happen?
In December 2023, the Ontario Superior Court of Justice found aspects of the first-generation limit unconstitutional and ordered legislative change. The government and courts have since negotiated timelines for amendments; the latest court extension moved the deadline to January 20, 2026. Bill C-3 is the government’s legislative response.
Did Parliament consider stricter rules?
During Senate debate, an amendment was proposed to tighten the substantial-connection test — such as requiring the 1,095 days to fall within a five-year window. The Senate rejected that amendment, keeping the rule more flexible for Canadian parents.
What happens next?
Once the bill receives royal assent, the Governor General will proclaim when the new rules come into force. From that date forward, eligible individuals can begin applying for citizenship documentation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who will get citizenship under Bill C-3?
Bill C-3 restores citizenship to people previously affected by the “first-generation limit” and allows future children born abroad to inherit citizenship if their Canadian parent meets the 1,095-day connection test.
What is the “first-generation limit”?
The first-generation limit (introduced in 2009) restricted citizenship by descent to one generation born outside Canada. It prevented many second-generation children abroad from inheriting citizenship.
What is the 1,095-day substantial-connection test?
A Canadian parent must show at least three years of physical presence in Canada before the child’s birth or adoption to pass on citizenship under the new rules.
When will the law come into force?
After Bill C-3 receives royal assent, the Governor General will announce the official start date.
I think I’m affected — what should I do?
Collect proof of your parent’s Canadian citizenship and any records showing time spent in Canada. Canada Visa Point can assist with the application process once the law takes effect.
