Proof of Citizenship

If you were born in Canada, have a Canadian parent, or have previously received citizenship, you may need to apply for proof of Canadian citizenship

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What is Proof of Citizenship?

In some cases, you do not need to apply for a grant of citizenship. Applying for proof of Canadian citizenship is a formal way to find out if you are a Canadian citizen. It is also a way to prove you are a citizen if you have lost or need new documents to show your citizenship. If your application is approved, you will receive a citizenship certificate.

  • Citizenship Certificate, including older certificates 

  • Citizenship cards 

  • Birth certificate 

  • Naturalization certificate 

  • Registration of birth abroad certificate 

  • Certificate of retention

Documents to prove your Canadian citizenship:

 

Some people who are born outside of Canada to a Canadian parent become citizens at birth. If one of your parents were born in Canada or received their Canadian citizenship before your birth, you may be eligible to apply for a Canadian citizenship certificate.

  • Were born in Canada 

  • Received Canadian citizenship as a minor when a parent or guardian applied for your citizenship 

  • Were born outside Canada, and one of your parents were either born in Canada or applied and became a citizen before you were born 

  • Applied for and received citizenship (naturalized citizen)

You are likely a Canadian citizen if you:

The Government of Canada has officially implemented Bill C-3, An Act to Amend the Citizenship Act (2025), introducing important reforms to Canadian citizenship law. These amendments are designed to make citizenship rules fairer, clearer, and more reflective of how Canadian families live today, both inside and outside Canada.

As of December 15, 2025, individuals born before December 15, 2025, who would have been Canadian citizens if not for the former first-generation limit or other outdated provisions, are now recognized as Canadian citizens.

If you were born outside Canada on or after December 15, 2025, to a Canadian parent who was also born outside Canada, you are likely a Canadian citizen if:

  • Your parent was a Canadian citizen at the time of your birth; and

  • Your Canadian parent spent at least 1,095 days (three years) physically present in Canada before you were born.

 

The average processing time if you live in Canada is five months and nine months if you applied from outside of Canada.

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