Canada introduces new citizenship by descent legislation, may help Indian diaspora

Lena Metlege Diab, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), has introduced Bill C-3, a new legislation that aims to expand Canadian citizenship by descent. 

Until now, Canadian citizenship was generally limited to the first generation born abroad. 

Bill C-3 proposes to remove this restriction and allow children born abroad beyond the first generation to gain Canadian citizenship, provided certain conditions are met.

Individuals who were previously denied due to the first-generation limit or outdated rules in the Citizenship Act would now automatically qualify for Canadian citizenship.

Children born abroad to Canadian parents (including Indian-Canadians) beyond the first generation will be eligible for citizenship if the parent has a substantial connection to Canada. This means at least 1,095 cumulative days (3 years) of physical presence in Canada before the child’s birth or adoption.

This is a significant opportunity for Indian-origin Canadians who wish to pass on citizenship to their children born outside Canada even if they are second-generation. It ensures that strong ties to Canada, not just place of birth, determine eligibility.

If Bill C-3 passes both Houses of Parliament and receives Royal Assent, the Government of Canada will begin implementing these changes promptly. More details for eligible Indian citizens and families will be shared on the official Canadian immigration website.