How You’re Entitled To Canadian Citizenship By Descent
February 28, 2018
If you have a parent who was born in Canada you are a Canadian citizen by descent.
One of the most commonly asked questions we field is related to Canadian citizenship by descent. Individuals born outside of Canada are Canadian citizens by descent only if one of their parents is a citizen of Canada either by having been born in Canada or by naturalization. That means if your mother or father was born in Canada, you are entitled to Canadian citizenship, even if your parent hasn’t lived in the country for most of their lives and even if you’ve never visited. Under Canadian nationality law any person born to a Canadian citizen parent is automatically a Canadian citizen.
The legal term for citizenship by descent is jus sanguinis, or “right of blood,” referring to laws which rely on a person’s heritage to determine his or her citizenship status. If you’re researching this, you’ll hear it thrown around a lot.
The Citizenship Act was recently changed in 2009 to limit that citizenship by descent to one generation – also known as the “first generation rule”. It is not retroactive. If you were born after 2009, you’re a Canadian if one parent is a Canadian citizen – but not if a grandparent was. If you were born prior to April 17th, 2009, you might be eligible for Citizenship by descent if one of your parents or grandparents are Canadian citizens.
Obtaining proof of citizenship is something that some Canadian citizens by descent attempt to do themselves, with typical wait times ranging between 5 months to a full year for processing. The form lead up and process is complicated and even the slightest error in your paperwork will result in a rejection, forcing you to start the process over again. Many applicants will secure an immigration lawyer to take care of the details, but that can make the process more expensive than it needs to be. We offer the same service as an immigration lawyer, but at a significantly less cost. As part of our fee of $300, we take care of the application paperwork and package preparation and lead you from start to finish, offering a guarantee on the processing of your application.
The benefits to Canadian citizenship are far and wide. From access to some of the world’s best schools, the ability to travel with a Canadian passport, to vote or run for political office, or to reside or work in Canada while benefitting from social privileges like the national health care system and one of the world’s most multi cultural societies. Maclean’s published a great piece back in 2013 on 99 reasons why it’s better to be a Canadian. Not everyone is entitled to the privilege of Canadian citizenship. What are you waiting for?
Hi, I saw yourt article on Canadian citizenship by descent, and require clarification. I am South African, and my wife’s grandmother was born in Canada in 1911 and relocated to South Africa. My wife was born in 1966. Do she still qualify for Canadian citizenshoip by descent – we originally thought this was not possible?
Kind Regards
My mother was born in Halifax in 1918, was raised there prior to moving to the States . Please send info on how I may proceed
My father was born in Canada in the 50s but lived in the UK from the age of 1. He never applied for Canadian Citizenship. Would I as his son, born in the UK in the 80s be eligible to apply for Canadian citizenship?
I was born in 1949 in Detroit Michigan. My father was a Canadian citizen when i was born and did not get his US citizenship until 1951. Am i entitled to Canadian citizenship? How long does the process take? How much will it cost? By getting my Canadian citizenship, will i put my US citizenship at any risk?
If one of your wife grandparents is a Canadian citizen, she might be eligible to become a dual citizen of Canada and the USA. However, you have to apply for a proof of Canadian Citizenship. For a proof of Canadian Citizenship, she needs a copy of her parents and grandparents birth certificate.
I am American. My husband is Canadian. Our son was born in the US but has dual citizenship already. How can obtain a Canadian social security number to be able to move to Canada?
My grandmother was born in Canada (Canadian citizen). I was born in the states. I am in my 50’s. Does that mean I can get my citizenship if I can get the birth certificates and I have a clean record, etc?
I took the self assessment test and it seems like I could be Canadian, but I’m not sure.
My grandmother was Canadian, born in 1919 to Canadian parents.
Her son, my father, is Canadian, but he was born in the US. He’s a dual citizen, American and Canadian. I think that the way Canadian citizenship laws work that he is to be considered Canadian since birth. He carries a citizenship card and a passport from Canada.
I was born in the US in 1973. My parents were married at the time of my birth. My mother was American. My parents never registered my birth at a Canadian embassy or consulate for foreign birth record purposes.
Am I Canadian? Why or why not? Can you help me obtain certificate if I am?
Did you ever find out? This is my EXACT circumstance!
Hi, my father is a Canadian citizen ( naturalisation ) but was born outside canada I was born outside Canada I’m I a Canadian citizen?
If your father became a Canadian citizen before you were born, you right to Canadian citizenship. You should apply for a proof of Canadian Citizenship.
The easiest way to apply for proof of Canadian citizenship is using online services. You could start the process of obtaining proof of Canadian Citizenship by signing up online at https://canadacitizenshiphelp.ca/account/start/. You should choose “Adult Citizenship Certificate” option. Canada Citizenship Help will send you all required forms, assess and review your application with 24/7 support, check your documentation, look for a photographer in your area that specializes in taking Canadian Citizenship photos and an industry unique comprehensive review of your application photos to be absolutely sure they were taken to the Biometric standard.
Using online services prevent rejection or any delays. You will receive your Canadian Citizenship certificate in 3 – 4 months. The total cost of obtaining proof of Canadian Citizenship is $300. This includes government application processing fees, application and picture assessment and pre-approval and the cost of shipping the citizenship certificate to you.
Please call us at (888) 808 – 0455 if you have any questions.
The cost came up as $300 to apply for the “Descent” option.
I am a Canadian citizen with a green card my my adult daughter who is American wants to become a dual citizen of Canada how do we go about this thank you in advance
Because of you, your daughter has a birthright to Canadian citizenship, however, she should apply for her proof of Canadian Citizenship.
The easiest and quickest way to apply for proof of Canadian citizenship is by using online services. To begin the process of obtaining proof of your Canadian citizenship you should sign up online at http://canadacitizenshiphelp.ca/ and choose the “Canadian Citizenship by Descent” option.
You will receive your Canadian Citizenship certificate in 6 to 8 months. The total cost of obtaining proof of Canadian Citizenship is $300. This includes all government application processing fees, form and picture assessment, a pre-approval of the application before you send it, and the cost of shipping the Citizenship Certificate to you.
AG
Hello dear any news about your case?
Hi there,
My grandmother, born in 1925 in Canada, relocated to Sourg Africa at the age of 25. My mother was born in 1953 but was assigned Soutg African citizenship. She was unable to apply for Canadian citizenship until after my birth in 1983 as she was only permitted to apply if her father was Canadian. The rules then changed, and she applied for and received her citizenship. Do I have any claim to citizenship if she only received hers after I was born?
Hello did you ever get your citizenship? I have a nearly identical situation and need and answer
My grandfather was born in 1894 in Quebec. We’ve found his Baptism entry that lists his parents, date of birth, etc, and I have my father’s birth certificate from being born in the US. I myself was born in the US in the early 1970’s. Is it worth attempting Canadian citizenship through my grandfather? I’m not sure if the year of birth of my grandfather is an issue.
My paternal grandparents were both born in Canada: my grandfather (Lajeunesse) in Trois Rivieres, QB and my grandmother (Leblanc) in Halifax, Nova Scotia. They evidently came to Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan around 1905 and changed their married name to Young. Their son, my father, died when I was a toddler, and my late mother moved on (she was American) and I have no information on the Lajeunesse family. Do you know that I am not certain that they ever actually became naturalized in the US. I cannot find any naturalization documents in Michigan. But my (deceased since 1955) father was an American citizen and had a Social Security number and fought in France during WW2 with the Michigan Armored Infantry. How would you suggest that I proceed? I am seeking dual citizenship.
My father was born in Canada in 1925, and I was born in the US in 1952. My father became a US citizen in 1957, so he was clearly still a Canadian citizenwhen I was born (still owned land in Saskatchewan until the early 1960’s) Am I a Canadian?
Hi,
My grandmother was born in Canada in 1924, immigrated to the US in 1947 and was married but remained an alien resident and never became a US citizen. My father was born outside Canada and never had any papers of Canadian citizenship, and so was I. I was borm in 1985, does citizenship by descent still apply to me?
Hello,
The great-grandmother of my husband was Canadian (born in Montreal) and he was born in the United States in 1967. Can he qualify for dual citizenship?
Thanks
I was well before 2009. My grandfather was born in Montreal and was french canadian. I am an american but want dual citizenship with Canada. I want buy property in Montreal. I am currently taking french lessons. I am financial independent. I am actually very busy now. I started the process. I was trying to get a copy of my grandfathers burth certicate. I habe his marriage license stating he was born in Montreal. I just want to hire soneobe to speed up the process.
My grandmother was born 1904 on St. Joseph’s Island, ONTARIO. She married an American round 1927 in Michigan. My father was born in Michigan in 1928. I the grandson born 1964 in MI. Could I be a dual citizen?
Hi My Grandfather was born in Chicago, My Great Grandfather was Canadian. I have tracked this thru Ancestry.com and feel confident I could find records to prove it. My question is this. what exact service am I getting for my $199? (I was born in 1962)
I’m also in a similar position and would like to know if I qualify to become a Canadian citizen by decent.
I am in a similar situation and would like to see a response to this question… a great grandfather born in Canada. Thankyou for your help.
Hello,
My maternal grandmother was born in Canada to Canadian parents and moved to the US many years ago. She married a US citizen. I was born in the US in 1985. Can I become a Canadian citizen? Let me know as I’d love help!
Hi,
My grandad was born in Canada in 1909 and moved to U.K. When he was about 5 so about 1914,
I was born in 1955. Can I claim Canadian citizenship?
Many thanks
Hi Sharon,
You might be eligible. Call us at 1-888-808-0455 to discuss further and ask for Mario.
Hello! My boyfriend’s great grandmother is a Canadian citizen.
Would he be eligible for a Canadian passport?
I have my dual citizenship, I was born in US, my father and his parents were born in Canada. Can my children get Canadian citizenships by way of me and/or decent?
Hi
My grandfather is a naturalised citizen of Canada having moved from the UK in the 1950’s. I was born in the UK in 1977 can I apply for citizenship.
Many Thanks
Claire
Dear Claire:
If one of your grandparents is a Canadian citizen, you might be eligible to become a dual citizen of Canada and the USA. The citizenship by descent for the second generation is complicated and limited. Citizenship Canada has a special process for the 2nd generation. The Citizenship Canada reviews each case based on its merit and informs individuals if they are eligible to receive a Canadian citizenship certificate. Unfortunately, until the application is reviewed by the Citizenship Canada, it is difficult to know if the case will be accepted.
You need a notarized copy of your grandparents’s Canadian citizenship certificate to apply for your Canadian Citizenship.
Hello Chris,
I have a similar situation where as my father was a British subject by birth and came to Canada in 1970. I came to Canada immediately after as well as a minor. He applied for, and received, his Canadian Citizenship in 1976. I was still in Canada when he received his Citizenship. Does this afford me the opportunity to automatically receive Canadian Citizenship because I was a minor and had Canadian domicile?
My wife in canada on tourist visa she born baby 16oct2018 and get birth certificate and now can apply for Canadian passport because she came back to india how can get passport plz help us
My late father was born in Toronto in 1924 and came to the US with his family as a child. I was born in the US and feel I am possibly a Canadian citizen. I have proof of my father’s birth and family’s residence when born in Toronto. Do I need anything else.
My son is currently in Canada on a 2 year working visa. My son was born in 1991. His grandfather was born in cananda in 1935. Can e receive Canadian citizenships
Thank you
Linda
Hi Chris
I have just read your responses above (particularly to Claire on November 7th). My Great-Grandfather was Canadian. Both of his parents were from Newfoundland. I’m sure that I could obtain certification to prove this. I gather that my grandmother would have therefore been Canadian by descent – however she never claimed Canadian citizenship – so I would be presumably be a 3rd generation descendant – rather than a second generation descendant. I was born in 1960. Is there any hope that I may be eligible – or is the connection too remote? Thanks for you help. Denise
Did you get a response? I’d be curious as this too is similar to my situation plus my mother was naturalized as a Canadian citizen after I was born. Thanks
Did you get a reply to your question? My situation is almost identical to yours. My Great-Grandfather was Canadian and in doing research I can trace his parents and even several generations back all being from Nova Scotia. There are birth records and christening records and at least 2 Canadian censuses to back this up. But I would be a 3rd generation by descent. So am I eligible for Citizenship by Decent?
Same question. G-Grandfather born in Novia Scotia means that my Oregon born grandfather was Canadian via the Nationality Law – he was a Canadian citizen due to his birth to a Canadian citizen. Therefore I should be able to claim Canadian citizenship by descent because a grandparent was a Canadian citizen, right?
Hi guys! so I’m a naturalized Canadian citizen since 1996. my Son was born in Burbank California in March 2007, is he automatically Canadian? I’ve been doing some research on-line but seems like there’s no simple answer to this million dollar question… anyone?
Hi guys! so I’m a naturalized Canadian citizen since 1996. my Son was born in Burbank California in March 2007, is he automatically Canadian? I’ve been doing some research on-line but seems like there’s no simple answer to this million dollar question… anyone?
I would think so. I was born and raised in Canada but my kids were born in Italy. They both have a Canadian Citizenship.
My Mother was born in Canada in 1921 to British parents. They moved to Zambia when she was very young. I was born in Zambia in 1955 – am I eligible? Please advise.
Thanks
Good afternoon I am looking to prove citizenship my mother was born in Montreal Canada in 1924 I would like to do this and for my son 13 years old would this be possible please many thanks Karen
Hi, my grandfather was born in Newfoundland and moves to UK after serving in World War 2. My mother never took Canadian Citizenship so we all have British passports. Would I be eligible to apply for Canadian Citizenship?
Hi, my grandfather was born in Newfoundland and moves to the UK after serving in WW2. My mother never took up her Canadian Citizenship. I was born in 1978 so would I be eligible as a descendant box my grandfather?.
If my after became canadian citizen (naturalized) after i was born (i was born in europe , later on my father emigrated and got his citizenship , can i apply for citizenship ?
My grandmother was born in Detroit Lakes Minnesota but her ancestors came over on the Mayflower and was from Norway. My mom was born in Canada and so was I. I managed to get my kids a Canadian citizenship too and they were born in Italy. I would go to the Canadian Consulate or phone them. I’m almost sure you have that right.
My husband was born in the US but has dual US/Canadian citizenship through his mother, who was born in Canada. Would our kids, both born before 2009 be eligible for Canadian citizenship?
I would contact the consolate but my kids were both born and raised in Italy. I managed to get them both a dual citizenship.
Hello
Grandfather born in Nova Scotia 1903, but birth certificates for Nova Scotia only go back to 1908 when I was on their official website trying to order online so didn’t proceed with the order. Father born in Massachusetts in February 1950 and me in November 1975 (therefore second generation and dual citizenship still wasn’t allowed), have a sister born in June 1979, and brother born in February 1981(both their births after dual citizenship was allowed).
Grandfather is deceased have a copy of death certificate,.
Father don’t know of his whereabouts rather living or dead as my parents split up when I was still very little and was separated from my father. Do have a copy of his birth certificate but didn’t find out until I was thirty about my grandfather being from Canada. I obtained my father’s birth certificate first tying to go in order by generation from most recent to try to make my search easier.
I kept reading about second generation Canadians born for all intensive purposes after dual citizenship was allowed, but what about those of second generation born before dual citizenship was allowed. I feel as if by association that Canada is saying that because I was born before dual citizenship was allowed that I’m assumed that I didn’t want it.
But really who are they to judge, there are people who are born after dual citizenship was allowed who don’t want it. And they’re are people born before dual citizenship was allowed that want it. I personally feel like that I’m arbitrarily being disqualified from citizenship by descent because of my date of birth and the dates of births of my father and grandfather which none of us could have controlled.
But now with citizenship for my father being retroactive to birth are there possibilities for me and my younger siblings since we were all born before the first generation cut off date
Thank you
Chris M.
Hi. My grandfather on my father’s side was naturalised Canadian after my dad died, and then after a few years he died. I know it might be a bit of a reach but, could I have a chance of getting a Canadian citizenship? I don’t have any of his paperwork (naturalisation or death certificates). Thanks.
Hi.
My grandmother (dad’s mom) is currently a Canadian citizen she has been there for over 20 years but only got her citizenship a few years back. Her parents were both citizens do I qualify to apply for citizenship?
My family first arrived in the Americas in Canada. Many generations back my family line moved to the US. We have traced the family line back several generations. What proof is required to claim citizenship by decent in this case.
Hello,
My great grandmother was born in Canada in 1864. My great grandfather was born in the US to Canadian born parents. They married in Canada and lived there a few years before moving to the US. I’m assuming this would make my grandfather who was born in 1895 in the US a naturalized Canadian citizen by decent? Would I be able to then claim Canadian citizenship by decent through them?
Hello,
My great grandmother was born in Canada in 1864. My great grandfather was born in the US to Canadian born parents. They married in Canada and lived there a few years before moving to the US. I’m assuming this would make my grandfather who was born in 1895 in the US a naturalized Canadian citizen by decent? Would I be able to then claim Canadian citizenship by decent through them? I was born in 1960 in the US.
Friends live in mexico. She was born to parents who had cdn cirizenship by descent. She lived in canada between 6 and 14 yrs old and recd cdn citizenship. Her husband is also descendant of cdn but not citizen. Can their 2 children ages 6 and 8 (born in mexico in 2012 and 2010) get cdn citizenship as she lived here for 8 yrs?
Hi there my Grandfather is a Canadian citizen by birth and i was born in 1985 in Scotland would i be eligible for citizenship?
My son was born in Norway and gained automatic Canadian citizenship by
descent (my husband and I are Canadians by birth). I have learnt that my son is not allowed to pass on his Canadian citizenship to his children if the are born outside Canada. Is there a way for my son to change the status of his Canadian citizenship from by descent to by naturalization? so that he would be able to pass on Canadian citizenship to his children if they are born outside Canada?
Both my grandparents, deceased, were born in Canada. So far, I have been able to find my father’s birth certificate, which notes that fact and gives his parent’s name, and may be able to find both grandparents’ certificates of naturalization, from when he became a U.S. citizen. Have not been able to find their birth certificates. Is this documentation sufficient?
Confused i am the daughter of a Canadian father born in Quebec in 1936 to parents who immigrated in the 1920’s his 3 brothers and 1 sister were all born there but now all deceased. l was born in the 1950’s in England. l have his birth and death certificates plus 8 Canadian expired passports. Can l claim citizenship but also can by student daughter born in 1998 under age 22 and still a dependant living at home. She has Asperger’s and is very clever.
My grandfather was born in Canada in 1944. He was adopted by an American couple while he was a baby. My mother (his daughter) does not have dual citizenship. If she were to apply and get it, would I also be eligible?
Hi. My grandfather’s cousin was Canadian, and was born in August 1931. Would I be eligible for Canadian citizenship?
My grandmother became a naturalized Canadian citizen in March 1996 and I was born in January 1997. Both my parents aren’t Canadian citizen’s, is there a way I can get citizenship through my grandmother?
My father was Canadian and I bid whole side of my family still lives there. There’s even a large piece of land still owned in Alberta. I want to move there…possibly with my 2 daughters. How can I do this? Do I need a passport ? What info of my father is required?
Hey, My great-great grandfather was born and lived his whole life in Canada. My great-grandfather was born in Brampton, Ontario, but later moved to America. I was born in the 1990’s. Am I eligible for citizenship by descent since I was born before 2009 and have Canadian Roots?
My grandfather was born in Canada in 1922 and moved to the US with his Canadian parents when he was a child. His son (my father) was born in the US and has never claimed his Canadian citizenship. I was born in 1972 in the US and am a US citizen. In understand that my daughter who was born in April of 2010 is unable to claim descent because The Citizenship Act was changed in 2009 to limit that citizenship by descent to one generation. My question is whether I am able to get it and if there is a path or my daughter to also once I have it? Thank you so much! Kind Regards, Cheri
Hi Cheri – email us at info@canadacitizenshiphelp.ca.
Mother born Canada. Became U.S. am I eligible?
Hello,
I was born in USA in 1956 to my mom who was born in Canada in 1926, and who became a naturalized American citizen when my parents moved to the states in late ‘40s.
Am I eligible to claim Canadian citizenship?
I just sent an email. I had no clue I was eligible for Canadian citizenship. I just need to figure out what documents I need and how to aquire them so I can get started.
I am wondering whether I might have two paths to citizenship by descent. First, my grandparents on my mother’s side were born in Canada and lived there for their entire lives (they passed on before I was born in 1970). When my mother was born, also in Canada, she was one of 5 kids. My grandparents were poor, and there was an outbreak of whooping cough at the time, so they gave my mom up for adoption to her uncle, who was living in the United States. My mother did eventually become a naturalized citizen of the United States.
Would I be able to claim citizenship through my mother, even though she became a citizen of the United States? Or is my best bet to claim citizenship through my grandparents? Or am I out of luck because my mother was adopted? It seems like I should still be able to become a citizen through my grandparents, because they were Canadian. I still keep in touch with some of my Canadian aunts and cousins.
Hi Kathy – email us at info@canadacitizenshiphelp.ca or call us.
Hi.
My father is a candian citizen by naturalization. I was born abroad and i have never been to canada in my life. Do i get a canadian citizenship? (My father doesnt want me to become canadian citizen
Hi Haysem – email us at info@canadacitizenshiphelp.ca. We can walk you through it.
IS this still accurate?
Yes, If one of your parents is a Canadian citizen, you are eligible to become a Canadian citizen.
Ellen
My grandmother was born in Canada in 1914, in Toronto. He parents were both British and they had emigrated.
Sadly my great grandmother died in child birth, buried in Toronto, and my grandmother and her siblings cane back to the UK.
Would this qualify me for Canadian citizenship as I have her Canadian birth records?
Kind regards
Angie
Father was a naturalized citizen after I was born, can I still qualify?
My grandmother is from Yarmouth, NS
Does that count?
My grandfather was born in Canada in 1913, my father born in the States in 1950, I myself born in the States 1970 do I have a right to Canadian citizenship?
My grandmother, Nina Holmes Adams (MacGregor), I believe was a citizen of Canada. Her
Father Alonzo Adams, was Canadian, He grandfather Morris Holmes was from Beaver Harbor.
The MacGregor side my Great Grandfather Jack MacGregor was born in Prince Edward Islands and we still have family there. How do I get copies of citizenship for them. I was born before 2009
Hello
My grandfather was born in Canada and moved to Australia with his parents. He always remained a Canadian Citizen, would my mother or even myself be eligible for Canadian Citizenships?
hi chris, what other options can we do if we dont have the proof of citizenship of my dad. My dad was able to apply me for a canadian citizenship certificate before he abondoned us.. I want my younger brother next to me to apply for a canadian certificate but failed to provide my father’s document as if he is refusing to give it us…
Hi Manny. We reached out to you via email on this. Please confirm our message found you ok.
Am I eligible for citizenship by descent if my grandfather was born in Canada but migrated to the U.S. and then became a U.S. citizen? I assume he was required to renounce his Canadian citizenship and did not have a duel status. Both my father and I were born in the U.S.
Hi Ronald. We sent you an email about this. Let us know this found you ok.
Hi – British citizen – My grandfather (deceased) is Canadian. My grandmother married a Canadian during WW2. Father born 1944. Can I make an application based on my grandfather being Canadian? Or, does my father need to claim Citizenship first? One person at Embassy said no, another yes so confused!
Hi Sarah. We sent you a private email about this. Let us know this found you ok.
My paternal grandfather (dec.) was born in Canada prior to 1946.
My father (dec.) was born in U.S. in 1950.
I was born in the U.S. in 1970.
Am I eligible to claim citizenship as a right of birth?
Hello i want to know if it works. I have the same case
My grandfather was born in PEI in 1876.
My mother was born in the US in 1913 and never claimed Canadian citizenship.
I was born in the US in 1954.
Am I eligible for Canadian citizenship by descent?
Hi, my grandparents moved to Canada in the 1950s and became citizens, they moved there with my aunties and uncles as small children. They lived the rest of their lives there. My cousins are all Canadian born. Reading up on the changes made…would I be eligible to gain citizenship through descent (grandparents) as they had citizenship and I was born before 2009.
Hello, My grandmother was a Canadian citizen. I was born in 1982. Am I eligible for Canadian citizenship?
Hello
My grandfather was born in Canada and moved to Australia once he graduated. He always remained a Canadian Citizen, would my mother or myself be eligible for Canadian Citizenships? I was born before 2009.
Hello, I hope you can help answer my question. My birth mother was born in Newfoundland and was Canadian until last year (just became a US citizen), and my paternal great granparents were born in Canada. However, I was adopted by US citizens. Can I still be considered Canadian by descent, despite the American adoption? I was born in the US in 1967.
Both my maternal grandparents were Canadian citizens then moved to the U.S. when they started a family. I’m not sure if my pepere had American citizenship before he died in 1986 or if my memere ever got American citizenship. Would I be able to apply for citizenship for me and my family?
Hi, I have a question because I can’t seem to find a straight answer for my situation online. My grandmother was born in Quebec, and my grandfather’s father was. I can prove that my ancestors before both my grandparents were in Quebec since the 1700s, and only emigrated to the US less Han century ago. I was born in 1996, live in a border state and am fluent in both English and French. Am I eligible (I think I am…?) and how can I follow through with this. I am very serious about claiming Canadian citizenship and becoming a permanent resident to further my medical studies. Please let me know. Thanks so much, feel free to email me if you’ve want.
“if you were born prior to 17 April 17th, 2009 when the new rule came into effect, you’re in luck and can still claim Canadian citizenship regardless of how many generations back your Canadian direct ascendents were born in Canada.”
What you’re saying here doesn’t seem to make sense. How did you come to this conclusion considering the rules concerning people born of the second generation outside Canada. Explain it to me, it sounds to good to be true.
I am an adoptee. My biological grandmother was Canadian (Quebec). The familial lines run multi generational, at least 7/8 generations. While my DNA is absolutely 100% verifiable, what as an adoptee in the US (born before 2009) do I need provide in order to qualify descent?
My grandfather was a naturalised citizen of Canada( his citizen certificate says in 1968). He passed away many years ago but I just found out his documents and thus wanted to know if I could apply for citizenship by descent? I do have his certificate of citizenship and other things.
Hi,
My Great-Grandmother/Great-Grandfather was born/and lived in Nova Scotia. She moved to and lived in Michigan where she raised her family, but later moved back to Canada. I was born in 1980. Would I be eligible under the law prior to the changes in 2009/2015? Thanks in advance.
Hi,
My grandmother was born in Canada in 1926, and was a Canadian citizen, she passed away years ago, but moved to the USA when she was 6 years old. My mother was born in the US, and is a US citizen but never applied for Canadian nationality. My mother in turn immigrated to France, where I was born. Am I eligible to Canadian citizenship, (I was born before 2009) ?
My Grandfather a born in Ontario, Canada (1900), as was his Father. All moved to U.S. in about 1906, my Mother as born in U.S. (Florida) 1921. Do I qualify for Canadian citizenship by descent, because of Grandfathers and Great-Grandfather’s Canadian citizenship?
There seems to be a lot of people on different sites with different opinions on this subject. My Grandfather was Canadian born, my Father was born in Australia in 1940, but would have lost Canadian citizenship when turning 21 due to non-retention after the 1946 Act initially made him a citizen. He would have gotten it back in the 2009 changes. I was born in Australia in 1967, so pre-2009 changes, but my father, who is now considered to have been Canadian all his life, wasn’t actually one when I was born (my Grandfather was still Canadian), so under the 2009 changes I can not get Citizenship. I don’t think I can through my Grandfather either, even though I was born before 2009, and my Father was a Canadian Citizen on the very first day Canadian Citizenship became an actual thing! Weird!
My mother was born in Toronto, and I was born in the US in 2001. Do I need to file for citizenship, or am I automatically a citizen and don’t need to file any paperwork?
I’m a Canadian citizen currently living in Japan. Child was born in Japan and he has my Japanese wife’s last name.
I’m planning on applying for the Canadian citizenship certificate on behalf of the baby.
We want the baby to use my last name in Canada for all future documents including a Canadian passport.
Is there a way to have this done while having the child retain his Japanese last name in Japan?
Thank you!
My mother was born in Saskatchewan an and my father born in Alberta. I understand that gives me Canadian citizenship by descent. What is the approximate wait time for proof of my Canadian citizenship?
Hi there!
I’m American but my grandmother was born in Halifax and her father was born and raised in Halifax. Do I qualify for citizenship by descent or am I a generation too late? I was born in 1968. Despite modern documents mentioning my grandmother was from Halifax I cant find her birth certificate. My grandfather’s 1918 US citizenship cerificate lists ‘Great Britain’ as country of origin, but he was Canadian. In a nutshell:
To qualify for Canadian citizenship by descent, how many generations minimum can one be removed from their Canadian ancestor? My Grandmother and grandfather were definatly Canadian ( i was born 1968)
What documents are needed to prove said relatives are Canadian? Still no luck turning up a birth certificate for ejther, but US immigration forms list both as being from Halifax. My mother’s US birth certificate lists her mother as being from Halifax
Given the Halifax explosion of 1917 destroyed many records, are exceptions made in case I can’t turn up their Halifax birth records?
My grandparents were both born in Ontario in 1903. They came to the United States in 1928. They lived in Michigan and had green cards until their deaths in 1993 and 1998. My Dad was born in 1936 in Michigan. I was born in 1957 in Michigan. My parents lived in Toronto for 21/2 yrs while my dad attended University. My sister was born at Toronto General in 1960. How would I go about getting dual citizenship ?
My grandfather was born in Nova Scotia, Canada around 1900. He was adopted so I do not have a birth certificate for him. His adoptive parents were also Canadian and he grew up in NS. He immigrated to the US in 1924. My mother was born in New York in 1927, but never applied for Canadian citizenship. She has since passed away and I do not have a birth certificate for her. I was born before 2009. Would I qualify for Canadian citizenship, and if so, how difficult would it be to obtain? Thank you.
My father was born in St. John, NB however moved and naturalized in the US in adulthood. Do I qualify?
Dear sirs,
I was reading the process of citizenship by descent. I would be ecstatic as well as my sons if they can become Canadian citizens. I have two sons who my wife bore with her first husband (divorced) in South America . In 2008, we married so they are politically my sons but not by blood. They are adults. They are my l sons. I was born and raised in Canada and I am a Canadian citizen so I would love they turn my nationality. My beloved wife is in the process of getting her citizenship but she already has her Permanent Residence.
My question is:
Can my sons become citizens through me in a citizenship of descend ? Please ,give me hope! I am a proud Canadian.
I was born prior to 2009 and would be trying to claim citizenship via my paternal grandmother’s father who was born in 1868 in Ontario. Can the citizenship pass through a female ancestor, i.e., from my great grandfather, to his married daughter, to my father, and then to me?
My grandfather was born in Nova Scotia in 1877 and my grandmother in Nova Scotia in 1882 and both grew up there. Both of their families then moved to the United States before 1900, apparently for economic reasons. My father (their son) was born in the U.S. in 1923, however, never claimed his Canadian citizenship. I was born in the U.S in 1949. Can I claim Canadian citizenship by descent since my father would have been considered a Canadian citizen when he was born? It seems confusing with the new changes.
Both of my parents were born in Canada, 1915 and 1919. Toronto and Winipeg .Do I qualify? I was born in the good ole USA
Paternal great grandfather and great grandmother were Canadian. They emigrated to the United States in the 1930’s. Am I eligible for Canadian Citizenship?
My father was born in the uk but has lived in canada for over 30 years and has canadian citizenship. I still live in the uk with my 17 year old son. Can we get canadian citizenship/passport by descent?
Hello, the newer laws are confusing. My great grandfather and grandmother were born in Quebec Canada and have both since passed away. My father was born in the US to my Canadian grandmother. I know my father is eligible for citizenship and he would like to obtain citizenship. I would like to know if I, as the great grandson/ grandson of Canadian citizens if I am eligible? I was born in the US in 1973. As stated my father does not have Canadian citizenship yet and I am not sure if he will be moving there.
My mother’s grandparents were both born in Ontario, but her parents were both born in Chicago, and she was born in Niagra Falls (US side). Would she qualify for citizenship?
I am Canadian by birth but my daughter was born in the UK in 1995. She held a certificate of Canadian board abroad and had a Canadian passport but did not keep it up to date. Are her 3 children born in Scotland (2003, 2005 & 2008) eligible for Canadian citizenship?
*That’s born abroad!
Hello, I am a Gouin, Martel dit Lamontagne and my ancestors were all Canadian. They came from the Quebec area to the US.
I was born in 1967. Can I apply for Canadian citizenship?
Thank you.
Hi, My Daughter’s father was born in Windsor Ontario. His family emigrated back to the UK when he was 13. We split whilst she was still a couple of weeks old and he refused to be in her birth certificate, she’s now 17 and is in contact with her father and met his Canadian family. How would she go about applying for dual citizenship with him not being on her birth certificate please?
My Grandfather was born in NS in 1924. My father was born in US in 1954 and I was born in 1976. Could I apply for citizenship with any success?
Has anyone used this site and what was the result?
My maternal grandmother (b. 1909) and her siblings were born in B.C. and Alberta but her parents were born in Michigan. Was she a Canadian citizen? I’m not sure when they moved to the States but would’ve been after the last birth in 1918. Is there a chance I could get dual citizenship? (My mother was born in the states and has passed).
Hi, my grandfather was a naturalised citizen of Canada and I have his certificate of citizenship and social insurance card. He was naturalised after my mother was born. Non of my mother’s siblings are Canadian citizen. Can it help me in getting a Canadian citizenship? Please reply soon as I want to pursue this if it’s possible.
Hello, I am currently in Vancouver BC. I was investigating about citizenship true descendent because my grandmother is Canadian. I read this in your home page
”if you were born prior to 17 April 17th, 2009 when the new rule came into effect, you’re in luck and can still claim Canadian citizenship regardless of how many generations back your Canadian direct ascendents were born in Canada.”
Wanted to see if this is still accurateand possible. I have all the papers from my grandmother and also from her parents.
thank you for your time!
Hello,
My grandmother was born in lebanon and went to canada in 1986. She lived there for more than 15 years and claimed canadian citizenship. Am i eligible for canadian citizenship/passport?
My grandfather was born in Vancouver. What kind of documentation do I need to present to prove his citizenship, and by extension, mine? Thanks, Christian
Hello. My Mom was born in Nova Scotia in 1923. She emigrated to the US with her Dad when her mother died and became a US citizen in 1938. Her US naturalization certificate said she was a British Subject. For purposes of my applying for Proof of Citizenship, under current Canadian laws is she considered or was she considered a Canadian Citizen? Can you cite the law?
My mother was born in Canada and become a US citizen in the 1960s. I was born in the US in 1974 and have two children born 2002, 2006. Which, if any, of us would be eligible for Canadian citizenship? Thx.
I have a great grandfather that was a Canadian citizen. I am wanting to apply for citizenship to honor my Canadian heritage. Would this be possible?
My father was born in Ontario in 1939 and is deceased. Would I qualify for citizenship?
Thanks
Jim
My grandmother was Canadian she died in 2001. I was born in 1982 am I eligible to gain Canadian citizenship?
Hello I was wondering my mother was born in Canada, and my father was born in Fort Kent ME but lived in Baker Brook New Brunswick. My brother and I are wanting to claim our Canadian Citizenship. My two questions are
1. Can I still claim this if my mother recently got her US citizenship?
2. Even though my father was born in ME but lived in Canada and grew up in Canada is this ok?
Please let me know if we can still do this, and I will pass it on to my brother so we can do this. Thank you
Dear Bridget: Canadian Citizenship
By becoming a US citizen, your mother did not lose her Canadian citizenship. Your mother children born outside of Canada are entitled to Canadian citizenship. In your case, you and your siblings are a dual citizen of Canada and the USA. However, you have to apply for a proof of Canadian Citizenship. You should apply for your Canadian citizenship separately.
The easiest way to apply for proof of Canadian citizenship is using online services. You could start the process of obtaining proof of Canadian Citizenship by signing up online at https://canadacitizenshiphelp.ca/account/start/. You should choose “Adult Citizenship Certificate” option.
You will receive your Canadian Citizenship certificate in 3 – 4 months. The total cost of obtaining proof of Canadian Citizenship is $300. This includes government application processing fees, application and picture assessment and pre-approval and the cost of shipping the citizenship certificate to you.
Please call us at (888) 808 – 0455 if you have any questions.
Ellen
I was born in 1975 in Italy and I am a Canadian Citizen by descent. Is not clear to me if my daughter (born in Spain in 2011) is entitled to apply to the Canadian Citizenship or not. Could you help me?
Thanks,
Matteo Sacilotto
Mqtteo
I am Canadian by birth. Do I need to apply for Canadian citizenship for my children in order to obtain Canadian passports for them?
Because of you, your children have a birthright to Canadian citizenship however, to apply for a Canadian Passport first you have to apply for proof of Canadian Citizenship for them.
The easiest way to apply for proof of Canadian citizenship is using online services. You could start the process of obtaining proof of Canadian Citizenship by signing up online at https://canadacitizenshiphelp.ca/account/start/. You should choose “Adult Citizenship Certificate” option.
You will receive your Canadian Citizenship certificate in 3 – 4 months. The total cost of obtaining proof of Canadian Citizenship is $300. This includes government application processing fees, application and picture assessment and pre-approval and the cost of shipping the citizenship certificate to you.
Please call us at (888) 808 – 0455 if you have any questions.
Ellen
My dad emigrated to Canada when he was 6 with his family, they all continued to live and die in Canada. My dad became a naturalised Canadian. I was born in the UK as my mum (a war bride) couldn’t travel while pregnant owing to a heart condition, both my mum and I moved to Canada after I was born but the marriage didn’t last. my question is, would I be eligible for a duel passport?
My parents (now deceased) and I were/are US citizens. My father’s parents were Canadian and received US citizenship in the early 1900s. I assume that since I was born (well) before 2009, I can apply for Canadian citizenship based on descent.
If I am granted Canadian citizenship, am I required to inform the US government? Is there any danger of forfeiting my US citizenship? Will I be considered a dual citizen automatically?
My father was a canadian citizen and I was born in the US.(prior to 2009) Based on your article it sounds like I would be able to obtain canadian citizenship. How would that work for my wife….would she be eligible to apply once I have my citizenship? Thanks
Dear John: Canadian Citizenship
Because of your father, you have a birthright to Canadian citizenship. However, you have to apply for proof of your Canadian Citizenship.
After you receive your citizenship certificate, you could sponsor your wife to become a Canadian permeant resident. A Canadian permanent resident enjoys most of the privileges and rights similar to a Canadian Citizen, i.e. work, live and study anywhere in Canada, Protection under Canadian laws, etc. receive social services, i.e. healthcare coverage. But they cannot apply for a Canadian Passport or vote in an election. In three years, she can apply for Canadian citizenship.
The easiest way to apply for proof of Canadian citizenship is using online services. You could start the process of obtaining proof of Canadian Citizenship by signing up online at https://canadacitizenshiphelp.ca/account/start/. You should choose “Adult Citizenship Certificate” option.
You will receive your Canadian Citizenship certificate in 3 – 4 months. The total cost of obtaining proof of Canadian Citizenship is $300. This includes government application processing fees, application and picture assessment and pre-approval and the cost of shipping the citizenship certificate to you.
Hi
I am inquiring as to if i can obtain Canadian citizenship by descent.
I have two grandfathers (now deceased) who were Canadian.
I know i can obtain documents on one grandfather (my mothers side, both my uncles i believe were born in Canada), my fathers dad is more complicated due to him being in England during the second world war, meeting my Gran and having a child (my Father) before returning to Canada after the war. (i believe i have traced my grandfather back through the vague details my father gave me).
I have visited Canada on a few occasions and feel my roots there, and did not realise there could be a chance that i could be eligible for citizenship.
Could you advise on my chances of obtaining citizenship.
Kind regards
Vincent Swain
Hello, my grandmother was a Canadian Citizen and became an American citizen in 1956. I was born before 2009. Do I qualify to become a citizen and if so, what documents do I need to gather?
Thank you, Bridget
My grandmother was a Canadian citizen. Am I eligible for citizenship? My dad hasn’t secured his yet.
Both my parents became Canadian citizens by naturalization in the early 90s. I was born outside of Canada in 1996 and got my Canadian citizenship via citizenship by decent, so I have a Canadian passport etc. My family lives in Canada. My question is would my children be entitled to be Canadian citizens if they were born outside of Canada, or do they have to be born in Canada to get their Canadian citizenship? Can you please send me your response to my email. Thanks.
My mother was born in Canada in 1943. She immigrated to the United States in the 1950’s as a child and became a naturalized US citizen. She is not a dual citizen. I was born in the United States. Can I claim Canadian citizenship now and if so what is the best way to go about it? Thank you
Hello, I am from Brazil and I have Great-Grand-Parents who were born in La Prairie,Quebec,Canada in 1833. After that all of my descendents were born in Brazil. I Want to known if I have a chance to aplicate to a canadian citizenship by blood. I am was born in 1979, my father in 1955 (in brazil) and my grandmother in 1914(in brazil), her father in 1874(in brazil), her grandfather in 1833 in Quebec, Canada.
Thank you very much.
My father and grandfather were canadian citizens. My father moved to the U.S. and became a naturalized citizen of the U.S. I was born in the U.S. before he became a citizen there. Can I apply for dual citizenship? 4 of my siblings were born in Canada also and had to choose when 18 their citizenship. Would they be eligible for dual citizenship and can they apply for a passport? I am a permanent resident of canada for 33 years now.
Hello,
My father was born in Canada in 1949 and moved to the USA in 1963. In 1991 (I was 2 years old) he took a Federal job with the USA Government and was required to renounce his Canadian Citizenship. Does it exclude me the right to apply because of this?
Also, if it turns out I was entitled to Canadian Citizenship, would it be more challenging for me to go through the process if I had a Misdemeanor? I was charged with a DUI in 2011 and learned of Canada’s policies on this charge recently. It will be 10 years since my completion of community service in 2022.
Hello,
I am a Canadian citizen by decent and have both passport and citizenship certificate. I was not born in Canada and do not live in Canada at the moment. Is my child eligible to Canadian citizenship through decent? He too was born outside of Canada.
Many thanks
Did you ever receive an answer on this? I am in a similar situation and get conflicting information.
Dear John
I was born in the US 63 years ago. I was adopted at birth by my mother, who was born in Canada.
I have her birth certificate, passport and ID card.
I have a birth certificate but have never had any access to adoption records.
Can I still apply for Canadian citizenship ?
If my grandfather is a dual citizen to CA and USA, would my mother be able to apply for dual, thus making me qualify for dual? Thanks!
I was born to Canadian parents in the U.S. (in the 70s) and have secured my proof of citizenship. Could you tell me how long it takes someone in my situation to establish residency in Canada? Or what those requirements are/where I can find requirements? (I will be sponsoring my spouse and 2 children when/if we decide to do so.) This seems to be a special case not addressed in my own research. Thought you might know … Thanks!
My grandmother was born in Canada. I can trace my ancestry back to the late 1700s and United Empire loyalists. Is it possible for me to have Canadian citizenship?
My Grandfather was born in Canada in 1914. My parents were born in America. I was born in America (1978). Would I be eligible for Canadian citizenship through my grandfather?
All my mother in laws greatgrandparents were born Canada. Can she apply for citizenship born in 1952. She wants this for her children all born before 1977
My mother was born in Canada in 1959 but left when she was 2, would she be entitled to a Canadian passport?
Does citizenship by descent still apply if our daughter is
a) adopted from another country (Hague Convention adoption) and
b) never lived in Canada?
Thanks.
I would like to know if I qualify for Canafian citizenship based on ancestry through my great grand father was Canadian. He was my mother’s grandfather.
Hi, My Mum was dual citizen Canada/NZ my grandparents both Canadian initially coming out to start first logging mill in NZ. Entire maternal side of Family canadian, grandparents returned to Canada, Mum married and remained in NZ. I have a disability which I always thought would rule me out for citizenship. Would I be able to apply by birth right? Would there be hurdles?
Hello. Your article mentioned that descendants of Canadians born before April, 2009 can claim/apply for citizenship, no matter how many generations back. Did I understand this correctly? I have documented proof that my family came to America from Quebec. My great, great grandmother was born in Montreal. Is it possible to claim citizenship if I can absolutely prove this without doubt? Thank you for your guidance!
Hi, my mother has a Canadian citizenship card and a passport. She studied there for a couple years, but wasn’t born in Canada. I also have a Canadian passport, but is it possible for me to get a Canadian citizenship?
If you have a Canadian Passport, it means you are a Canadian citizen. Do you have your Canadian Citizenship card or certificate?
What’s the easiest way to earn $30000 a month: http://cort.as/-Qsmr?&hpstp=D34R8H5RCoyD
What happens if a person immigrated from CA to the US and the US required that they renounce citizenship? Do children of those individuals have rights to become Canadian citizens through Proof of Citizenship?
Hello! I was born before 2009 and have a great-great-great grandfather who was born in Canada. I read your explanation but can’t find any other material on this. Am I still eligible for citizenship?
Hi, I’m trying to get my head around all the modifications and reforms…My friend is interested in getting Canadian citizenship. She was born in the 1960’s. Her grandfather was born in New Brunswick in 1911, and later emigrated to the United States. His daughter (my friend’s mother) was born in the US in the 1940’s. From what I read in your article, it seems like there would be some hope for my friend to claim Canadian citizenship, since she was born before 2009, unless the fact that her grandfather moved to the US sometime between 1911 and the 1940’s means he lost his Canadian citizenship? But when I read the actual Canadian forms it seems less clear… Would be grateful for any advice you can give!
Hello! My grandmother and great grandparents were born in Canada and I am born before 2009. What documents do I need before I start this application process ?
Thank you!
My dad is a naturalized Canadian citizen. Can I apply to be Canadian citizen without living in Canada?
I immigrated to Canada at the age of 4 and my Canadian citizen step father adopted me and i became a Canadian Citizen as well. I then left Canada at the age of 20 and got married and had a child. That child became a canadian through descent. Now my child had children of her own born outside of Canada. AFTER 2009 SHE APPLIED FOR PROOF OF CITIZENSHIP FOR HER CHILDREN BUT WERE DENIED. Does this mean her children are not canadian through descent.
If my grandmother was born in Canada, my mom was born in USA in 1976 and never became a dual citizen can I still obtain Canadian citizenship? I was born in 1994
My grandmother came to canada from Italy and became a naturalized citizen. She has a current Canadian passport and is a permanent U.S. resident and has a green card. Would my father and aunts be entitled to a Canadian citizenship because they are the children of a Canadian naturalized citizen? And also would I be able to obtain one? I was born on August 19, 1999 and I am not sure specifically about the legislation in that period.
Hi, my grandmother was born in Canada but she has lived most of her life in the US, she’s now a US citizen, my father and I were born in the US, I was born in 1987, just wondering if I’m eligible for Canadian Citizenship…
Because of your grandmother, your father has a birthright to Canadian citizenship. You need a notarized copy of your grandmother’s Canadian birth certificate to apply for the Canadian Citizenship.
Because of her father, your daughter has birth right to be a citizen of Canada. However, you should apply for a proof of Canadian Citizenship for her. For a proof of Canadian Citizenship, you need a copy of her father’s birth certificate.
Because of your grandmother, you might be eligible to become a citizen of Canada. However, citizenship by descent for the second generation is complicated and limited. Citizenship Canada has a special process for the 2nd generation. The Citizenship Canada reviews each case based on its merit and informs individuals if they are eligible to receive a Canadian citizenship certificate. Unfortunately, until the application is reviewed by the Citizenship Canada, it is difficult to know if the case will be accepted.
My mother was an immigrant who received Canadian citizenship shortly after I was born. Am I eligible for Canadian citizenship?
Hi,i was born in Cameroon and am still living in Cameroon till today i’m already 18.My Father is a canadian.I want to know if i have the right to apply for the Canadian nationality.
So if I understand this correctly, since I was born in 1988 I’m eligible for a Canadian citizenship if my great grandfather was a Canadian citizen?
Hi Timothy,
I am in the same situation. Were you able to get an answer?
My father was a Canadian citizen in the USA on a green card since most of his adult life and died in the USA. My brother was born in Canada and raised primarily in the USA after his age of two. My father applied for “dual” citizenship for him at the age of 13, in 1982. When the US citizenship was granted, my father was informed my brother’s Canadian citizenship was voided. Is this actually true??
I’ve read through the comments so i think i have the information i need, but I’ll ask anyway. So my mom was born in Canada & moved to the US. My grandparents i believe were Canadian citizens, they fled the concentration camps to live in Canada before eventually moving to the US. So i believe that could qualify me to become a Canadian citizen? And have Dual , because i was born in US in 1970. I’m curious to how hard it is to apply to have my kids do the same? They were both born before April 2009. I thought i read that they would be grandfathered in before that date? Thanks
Because of your mother, you have a birthright to Canadian citizenship. However, you have to apply for proof of your Canadian Citizenship. For a proof of Canadian Citizenship, you need a copy of your mother’s birth certificate.
I’ve read through your post and comments, but still have question.
My great grandfather was a Canadian citizen. Grandparents didn’t get to move to Canada from Ukraine because of war.
Can I now be eligible to apply, giving that it was my great grandfather ?
My son’s great grandmother on the father’s side was born in Canada and moved to the US. We don’t have certificate information for the great grandmother and my son is a minor born before 2009. Can he still claim citizenship by descent? And can you help us obtain records? Thanks.
My wife’s great-grandfather was born in Quebec in 1873, came to the US in 1884, and died here in 1961. He was probably naturalized as a US citizen at some point. Does that sound like she has a chance at obtaining Canadian citizenship or is it hopeless?
My paternal grandfather was from Canada (born in 1900) and my maternal grandmother was also born in Canada (1894). Is it hard to obtain birth certificates from that far back? I would like to apply to be a Canadian citizen by descent. I was born in California in 1958. Thank you.
“[I]f you were born prior to 17 April 17th, 2009 when the new rule came into effect, you’re in luck and can still claim Canadian citizenship regardless of how many generations back your Canadian direct ascendents were born in Canada. I was born in 1961 in the US. Three of my father’s grandparents were both born in Canada. Am I eligible for Canadian citizenship?
I was born outside but my mother become a Canadian citizen in 2001, Have I the right of citizenship?
We have 2 children by a US citizen mom and Canadian citizen dad, all living in the US. The oldest is about to turn 18. How does that affect the process of applying for their proof of citizenship? Did we make everything harder by not doing it sooner? Thanks!
My grandfather was born in Calgary in 1919. He then moved to South Africa in his teens, with his family. Am I, as a 33 year old, entitled to Canadian citizenship based on this? Both my mother (his daughter) and I, would like to apply for citizenship.
Thanks in advance
Hi my husband is a canadian by birth. I have my child from my previous relationship im a filipino. Now my son is my husband legitimate son through the domestic adoption process here in the philipines. We know that he will become a canadian citizen too. Since it takes time to process it here in the philippines to get his citizenship. Can we just get him a trv visa to canada and process his citizenship inside canada? We are planning to put him to school in canada too. Thanks
If I am approved for citizenship will I have to pay income to the US and Canada should I decide to retire in Canada or if I continue to live in the USA do I have a tax obligation to Canada
There is a possibility that my husband’s grandfather was born in Canada, but how do we proof that?
His grandfather’s name Noel, Ernest Wagstaff, born 1911-01-21
So if I understand this correctly, my mother, who was born in Winnipeg in 1919 and lived in Canada until age 12, allows me to obtain Canadian citizenship?
I’m getting confused. My mother’s father was born in Canada 1903. My mother and I were born in the US. I was 04/17/53. Both of my Grandmother’s parents lineage go back over 200 yrs CA births, if that means anything. Do I have a good shot at getting an approval of an Canadian Citizenship? Thanks You.
Mark Newman says:
October 20, 2019 at 7:04 pm
I’m getting confused. My mother’s father was born in Canada 1903. My mother and I were born in the US. I was 04/17/53. Both of my Grandmother’s parents lineage go back over 200 yrs CA births, if that means anything. Do I have a good shot at getting an approval of an Canadian Citizenship? Thanks You.
Reply
“if you were born prior to 17 April 17th, 2009 when the new rule came into effect, you’re in luck and can still claim Canadian citizenship regardless of how many generations back your Canadian direct ascendents were born in Canada. This is particularly important for many Americans who may be descended from Canadians who moved to the United States for economic reasons a number of generations ago.”
This is precisely my situation, my most recent canadian ancestor was my great grandfather, (although, the majority of my family is originally canadian, and I could provide many direct canadian ancestors) As I was born prior to 2009, would I still not be eligible?
Hello, my great-grandparents were born in Canada and moved to the US. Their son, my grandfather, moved back and forth between the US and Canada before settling in the US. I am unsure if he formally ever claimed Canadian citizenship. My father was born in the US as was I before 2009. Am I eligible to apply for citizenship?
I have an interesting situation. My birth father was Canadian by birth. He passed away a couple of years ago. However, I was adopted at birth. I never knew my birth father. Would I still be eligible to apply for Canadian citizenship? Maintaining dual citizenship with the US?
Our family are all born outside canada, we immigrated to canda when was a young child in 1992. I grew up in Toronto, did my post-grad, and worked for a few years before moving to asia in my 20s. Ive been in HK for 10 years and now expecting my first child with a non-canadian. We are planning to have the baby in HK.
I presumed my child would be entitiled to canadian citizenship, but im not sure? Its not like we can get HK citizenship.
My grandfather was born in Canada and then was adopted by extended family who lived in the USA. His son is my father and neither of us have applied for citizenship. Is it possible for me to obtain Canadian Citizenship by Descent?
hello,
My grandfather, father and myself are enrolled on a reserve in Canada but we never lived there before. my great grandfather left Canada to the US when my grandfather was 3 yo. I am enrolled there……never been to Canada am i a citizen and will my children have citizenship?
My situation might be a bit complicated. My mother was born in Newfoundland in 1926. At that time she would have been a British subject, but Newfoundland became part of Canada on 31 March, 1949. She became an American citizen in 1955. I was born in 1958. Would I be eligible for Canadian citizenship? I have a copy of my mother’s birth certificate.
My mother is canadian citizen but was born in New Zealand. Do i have the same rights ?
I am Australian and have been searching for my dad.
I have found him, he happens to be a Canadian Citizen currently living in Canada. The thing is, he was not on my original Australian birth certificate but it can be proven by paternity test. How could/would I go about getting dual citizenship in this instance? Would I have to update my australian documents first before applying for citizenship?
I also have information of grandparents living in Canada whom I have contact with too.
My paternal Grandfather was from Nova Scotia and was in the UK during WW2. Unfortunately his name does not appear on my Dad’s birth certificate, but we have traced the family through Ancestry DNA. Would I be able to get citizenship with the DNA evidence etc? I was born in 1977.
My grandfather was born in the US, but both of his parents (my great-grandparents) were Canadian citizens. I was born in 1998, would I be able to apply for citizenship or is it too far removed?
Hello. My grandfather, and several generations before him, were all Canadian. My father was born in the U.S. as was I (in 1967). I believe my father may have gotten his dual citizenship as I have a Canadian “Social Insurance Number” card for him, but I found nothing else like a passport to verify this. Am I eligible due to my grandfather, or potentially my father?
Thank you.
I have notice American status through the Canadian government. My mom was born and raised on a Canadian reservation. Is it easier fir me to apply for dada in citizenship or does my card automatically make me a citizen.
I have a Canadian citizenship.
I wasn’t born there. Can my children born in 2013/16 be entitled to apply for a Canadian citizenship ID
Nadia Khalique
I paid the 199 but have not received a confirmation email or further instructions. I have checked all of my email folders. I also sent email directly under contact us and have not received. Response.
Hi,
My grandfather was born in Canada but neither of my parents or myself were. Im born in 1991, am I able to apply for citizenship?
My grandmother moved from Canada to the United States and eventually became a naturalized citizen of the United States, I believe in the 1940s, at which point she lost her Canadian citizenship. I was born in 1985. It seems as though I would be eligible to apply for proof of Canadian citizenship, is this correct?
My father was born in CAN, me & my brother in the US. I have the Certificate of Citizenship wallet card unknown if my older brother does. I’m aware of the process to double check his status. Two questions, firstly would you recommend I submit the same request for proof of citizenship as I thought the wallet cards are inefficient now (issued in 1979) secondly, would my brother’s children (born after 2009) be eligible IF my brother was in fact issued citizenship as I was. Or does that technically make his children the “second” generation removed from the original birth in Canada? Thank you, great information here. Brian
Hello,
My grandparents emigrated from Canada to the US in 1925 – my mother was born in the US one month later. Mom never got her Candian citizenship, though as the daughter of two Canadians she could have. I would very much like to obtain Canadian citizenship – is this possible? While still alive, my mother’s health prevents her from doing the necessary paperwork to obtain Canadian citizenship. My family can trace its heritage in Quebec back to the 1600s. I have family birth, marriage, death and immigration papers.
Thank you/Merci
Michelle
If I’m reading this correct, it doesn’t matter how many generations back your Canadian lineage is as long as you were born before 2009. My great great grandfather was Canadian, does this mean I have a claim to citizenship by descent?
I was born in 1955 My mother was born in Denver in 1924. Her mother was born in ~1892 in Denver to Canadian parents both of whom were born in Canada , died ~1950. Every generation back from there was Canadian since ~1780. Can I claim citizenship by descent based on either my mother, my grandmother, or my great grandparents.
Good morning to you, my boyfriend’s grandfather was born in Canada (and my boyfriend was born in 1979), could he apply for Canadian citizenship? Would I qualify as well? We are not married, but we have been together for 21 years now, and are regarded as being married by common law in South Africa. Does he have to intend emigration from SA to Canada within a specific period of time after applying for the ancestral Visa, or would he essentially have dual citizenship with an option to emigrate to Canada at any time? Would we need to be formally married in order for me to work in Canada on his ancestral Visa, or would proof of our long standing relationship suffice? (He wants me to go over to Canada first and establish a career, then he would follow afterwards, as it is virtually impossible for a Caucasian man, especially at his age (40), to find work in SA if the emigration does not work out due to racial legislation in job applications here)
My grandmother was born in Winnipeg in 1896. Her parents were from England and had emigrated to Canada in 1888.
The family returned to England in 1902, when my grandmother was 15, and did not return to Canada after that. There are no other Canadian links in the family but I do have copies of all relevant vital documents for my grandmother (and her son, my father, if that was required for proof of lineage). I also have censuses and passenger lists to support the chain of events.
I myself was born in England.
It looks unlikely to me that I would qualify for any kind of Canadian citizenship but would like clarification from anyone with more in-depth knowledge.
Cheers
My grandfather was born (in 1902)and raised in Canada but moved to the US when he was 18. My mother was born in the US in 1935 and I in 1961. Am I able to get Canadian Citizenship?
This one is hard … the mother of my great grandmother was Canadien , according to the laws can i become a Canadian citizen by direct ascendant? I was born in 1987
Thanks for your time
Would a copy of the parent’s Canadian birth certificate be required, or would other printed/signed verification be acceptable?
My Great Grandfather was born in Canada. I was born before 2009. Can I apply for Citizenship by descent?
Hi Bernard,
Did you get an answer at all? I have contacted them personally as I’m in the very same situation as you. My great grandfather was born in Montreal in 1869 and I was born in 1977.
Would be nice to hear back from you.
Cheers
I was born in Canada to Canadian parents in 1967 and adopted from there as a baby by American parents. I was made a US citizen when I was age 2. So I have a few questions…
Do I automatically have dual citizenship?
Would I only need to obtain that certificate to travel back and forth to Canada, or would I need a passport to get back in the US?
I have 3 adult children born here in the US. so do they automatically have dual citizenship and would they also need a passport or certificate to travel back and forth to Canada.
I only ask because we may want to take a trip to Canada in the near future, as I recently found my birth family that lives in British Columbia.
Please e-mail me. Thank You, Sheryl Romero
I’m a second generation living abroad born 2001. My grandfather was born in Canada and my father is born outside Canada but is a citizen. Am i eligible to be a citizen?
My Grandfather was born in Canada in 1886. His family moved to the US when he was about 10 yrs old. Would I be able to claim citizenship?
Thank You.
Who do I contact to get this done
Can I apply for Canadian Citizenship through my Aunt who was born in Canada?
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Hello,
My grand father was a naturalized Canadian on 27th Sept 1924. My father didn’t ask the citizenship. As a descendant can I apply for Canadian citizenship ? I born in 1976…
My sister was born in Jamaica in 1972 and our father emigrated to Canada that same year. He got his citizenship in 1982. Is she considered a citizen of Canada.
Hello!! My mom is from greece but she has Canadian citizenship. I am 28 years old.Can i also get Canadian citizenship?
My grandmother (father’s mother) was born in Canada but lived most of her life in the U.S. I was born before 2009. My father never obtained Canadian citizenship. Can I still obtain Canadian citizenship? What if I don’t have a record of her citizenship? Can it still be found?
my grandfather emigrated to Canada and became a citizen when he had the chance in 1991, i was born in 1995 in Scotland and have lived here all my life, so has my mum. she never applied for citizenship herself, am i eligible to apply for proof?
Hello my grandparents moved to Canada and both they and my father, who was born in the UK, became naturalised citizens before I was born (both these things happened before 2009). Can I apply for citizenship?
My mother married my father (American) and became a naturalized US citizen in 1974. Is she still a Canadian citizen or was that revoked when she became a US citizen?
My grandmother is Canadian, my mother and sister recently got their Canadian citizenship thanks to their relation, and I would like to as well, but I would like to maintain no contact with my mother. I am close to my grandmother, though, and was born prior to 2009. Can I obtain my citizenship without having to involve my mother?
My grandfather was born in Canada and moved to the US, my mother was born in 1970 in the US. It seems like she has automatic citizenship? But I was born in the US, therefore do I have a claim to citizenship?
Good morning,
My grandmother was a born and lived as Canadian permanent resident. I was born in the 1960’s but reside in Scotland. Am I entitled to apply for citizenship?
My father was born in NS. While he was a minor, His father became a naturalized US citizen. I was born in the US in 1948. When I applied (before 2015) for proof of Canadian citizenship, I was told that my father had lost his status as Canadian when his father became a US citizen, therefore I had no status. Have the 2015 revisions changed any of this?
My father was born in Vancouver and is a Canadian citizen. Am I entitled to Canadian citizenship?
Hi, I became permanent resident of Canada along with my family in 2016 .my wife and kids spent only two years in Canada and then went back home with kids . I completed my 3 years physical presence in Canada and will apply for citizenship this year .
Please do let me know my kids( minors ) are eligible for citizenship and I will also apply for them along with my citizenship application? Although they only spend two years physically in Canada.
Seniors please guide .
Thank you
My paterna Grandfather lived several years in Canada and served in the Canadan Army through WWI (served 1915 until at least 1919, became Sargeant Major, DCM & MM). However I am not sure if he was naturalised. Might I qualify ?
hello , my father is Canadian citizen , he sponsored me and now I’m a permanant resident in Canada from one month , can I apply for a citizenship immediately as I’m under 18 years old and does not need to meet the residence requirement of living three out of the past five years in Canada because minor exempt from this rule .
Hi, My father was a Canadian citizen, and has pasted away.I am a citizen of the USA. Do I need to meet residence requirements. and are there any age limitations ?
Hi my grandma was born in Canada, I am born in Zimbabwe but I am South African citizen. Can I immigrate to Canada
Hi there
I am a British citizen born in the UK in 1970. My father became what was called then a ” landed immigrant” in 1970. From past letters etc it would appear his actual naturalisation date may have come some 20 days after I was born… it was certainly being processed around that time.
I have family inclusive of a half brother in Canada so would like to gain citizenship.
My father has has recently passed but I am trying to find out of I am already a Canadian citizenship by descent. I am not sure whether to apply for his citizen records or to go ahead and apply for citizenship directly for myself…. because of the possible 20 days discrepancy…
Any help would be most appreciated.
My mother, born in UK but spent first 10 years of her life in Canada 1928 to 1938 let her Canadian passport expire when she turned 18 thinking she will not need it. Can I get daughter apply for citizenship?
My mother, born in UK but spent first 10 years of her life in Canada 1928 to 1938 let her Canadian passport expire when she turned 18 thinking she will not need it. Can I her daughter apply for citizenship?
hey my grand father born in canada
I born in yisrael in 2002
can I get canadian citizenship?
My great grandma was Canadian do I have the right for the citizenship?
My father was born in Canada and became a naturalized American, I was born later, and now wish to claim his original citizenship, is this possible
Because of your father, you have a birthright to Canadian citizenship. However, you have to apply for proof of your Canadian Citizenship.
The easiest way to apply for proof of Canadian citizenship is to use the online services. You could start the process of obtaining proof of Canadian Citizenship by signing up online at https://canadacitizenshiphelp.ca/account/start/. You should choose “Adult Citizenship Certificate” option.
Ellen
My maternal grandfather was born and raised in Quebec. He became an American citizen in the early 1900s. I wonder if the laws at that time allowed him to be a dual citizen and to retain his Canadian citizenship. We (my brother, sister-in-law and I are researching this. We may have his birth certificate.
Both my maternal grandparents were born in Canada.
Grandfather Arthur Lawlor, 1872 Red Bank, Northumberland.
Grandmother Charlotte Millea 1874 Newcastle, Northumberland.
Can I apply for Canadian citizenship?
Hi. My father was born in Canada in 1932. Came to the US in maybe 1940. He’s been deceased since 1994. Can’t get any other info than that. Thoughts on how to find out if I’m eligible to be a dual citizen of Canada and US? Thanks.
Because of your father, you have a birthright toCanadian citizenship. However, you haveto apply for proof of your Canadian Citizenship.Do you have a copy of your father’s birth certificate? Do you know where your father was born?The easiest way to apply for proof of Canadian citizenshipis to use the online services. You couldstart the process of obtaining proof of Canadian Citizenship by signing uponline at https://canadacitizenshiphelp.ca/account/start/. Youshould choose “Adult Citizenship Certificate” option.
My grandmother had Canadian citizenship moved to the US in the 1950s. My father does not have citizenship, Do I still qualify?
Did you ever get a response to your question? Just wondering as My grandmother also was a Canadian citizen, moved to the US had my mother in ’22, and I was born in 56, so even though my mother never applied for her citizenship, does that mean she was not a citizen, or was she an unregistered citizen, that would mean her kids are still citizens?
Hello, I am hoping to get my Canadian citizenship. My mother was born in Canada, her entire side of the family is in or around Toronto, Ontario. I was born in California and my mother passed away in 2013. I am not sure if I can locate her birth certificate or green card. I know she was born in Ottawa. Is this enough information to help me get citizenship by decent? Also would my husband need to get citizenship as well or due to being married to me would he become a citizen too? I am so excited to finally do this. I have loved Canada since visiting as a child. I will be so proud to a Canadian citizen. Thank you.
My grandmother was born at home in Guelph Ontario in 1910. She has since deceased and we don’t have a birth certificate due to home birth. What do you recommend I do to pursue verifying her Canadian citizenship?
I am a Canadian Citizen by naturalization in 1985. I have 2 daughters both Canadian but currently living with me in Kenya. The mother came to Kenya in June of 2008 and one yr later, she moved back to Canada and left the children behind I came back to Kenya in 2010 to stay and look after my children. One my daughter is turning 18 this November and I would like her to relocate to Canada. I have an old Canadian passport that was issued to her in 2003. I have been asking the mother to apply for the passport in Canada but she seems disinterested. I want the 18 yrs old to relocate to Canada soonest after international flights in Kenya resumes. My question is can i use the old passport to apply for a new passport Two, since the mother does not want to cooperate, can the Canadian High Commission in Nairobi help me to get the particulars of the old passport issued to my other daughter who turned 15 yrs in March. I will provide all the information and in particular, the hospital she was delivered in North York and all other required information including the mother’s phone contacts in Ottawa. My desire is to process both passports at the same time.
The other question has to do with my two daughters from my current wife. They are currently 3 and 2 yrs old. The mother and I have yet to marry because i have been waiting for the divorce to go through. I know they are Canadian citizen but I don’t know how the process work to have them given the Canadian Citizenship Kindly advise
My great grandmother and great grandfather were born in New Brunswick in 1898 and 1899. They are buried there. My great grandmother’s Canadian roots then go back 2 more generations after that. (Brewer and Fisher lines).
I was born in 1989.
Do I qualify?
Thank you.
No. Only if your parents and grandparents were Canadian citizens, you do not qualify with great grandparents. Even if your grandparents were citizens, you still have to meet other qualifications, such as your grandparents had to be working for the Canadian government or for the Canadian military in the country of your citizenship.
I also have am uncle that still lives in New Brunswick and my grandparents and mother and all aunts and uncles vacationed there every summer growing up (Staying with family there during their time).
Here is a curly on for you…. My Grandfather was born in Canada. My Father was born in Sydney, Australia in 1940, and so became a Canadian Citizen when the original Canadian Citizenship Act as passed, he was one of the very first Canadian Citizens. He would have automatically lost citizenship when he turned 21, due to the provisos in the original act. I was born in 1967, in Australia, while my Father was no longer a Canadian. Now of course, his citizenship has been restored, and he is by current Canadian Law considered to have been Canadian his whole life. Under the original Citizenship Act if he had been Canadian when I was born, I would have been Canadian, despite being 2nd generation overseas…. but I believe I am now prevented by the wording of the new act. If he had been Canadian at my birth, I could have been registered… but he could not do that at the time, as he wasn’t considered Canadian… but now is is considered to have been Canadian at that time, but it’s too late to register me. So I am prevented from being Canadian because he could not do at the time something he now could have done at the time. Is there any path for my to be Canadian by birth at all?
I had one of these already written a few weeks ago and it was “being moderated”. Now it’s vanished. I’m quite sure there was nothing offensive in it so I’m a little mystified.
I’ll try again.
My maternal grandparents were both born in Toronto (and their families in Ontario go back to the late 1700s). My mother was born in France, of her Canadian parents and was Canadian when I was born in the US. She was naturalized a few years later when my father was posted in Japan. My mother had a little hiccup in her citizenship when she didn’t understand the requirement to do something particular as a result of being born abroad but it was reinstated prior to her wedding.
apologies. the original showed up after all.
My mother was born in Newfoundland in 1915, but she emigrated to the United States and became an American citizen. Am I eligible for Canadian citizenship?
Complicated scenario. The grandmother was born in Newfoundland while it was still a colony. She immigrated to the United States and became a U.S. citizen before it became a part of Canada. Her grandson was born in roughly 1966, but he was adopted. Would he be able to claim Canadian citizenship? He is not in contact with his birth father.
My dad was born in Canada and resided there for most of his life, until he married my mother (a US citizen). I was also born in Canada, but never lived there, and grew up in the US. I have always wanted to live in Canada and be a Canadian citizen. Do I have that ability?
Hi, my (adoptive) dad was born in NY in the 1970s, and I was adopted at birth in 2001 (in the US) am I still able to claim citizenship by descent? im looking to move to Canada. thanks!
my dad was born in NY to a naturalized Canadian citizen* forgot to add that to my previous comment
Hi,
My mother was born in canada in 1930. She lived and worked there for 28 years before she moved to the US. I was born in the US in 1965 to my Canadian mother. In 2010 the US made my mom chose between US or Canadian citizenships or she wouldn’t get supplemental social security. So she had to give up her Canadian citizenship at the age of 80. Do I qualify for becoming a Canadian citizen a person born to a Canadian woman?
My grandma was born in Canada 1878, my dad 1903 in Alaska, before it was a state and me 1936 in the US. Am I eligible?
My wife’s mom who is still alive was born in Canada in 1949 moved the the states when she was 10. To this day still holds her Canadian passport. My wife’s grandparents (deceased)where also both born in Canada. From my understanding she can get citizenship?
My mother was born in Calgary Alberta in 1922, and became an American citizen by marriage in 1948. I was born in 1953. I don’t believe she maintained dual citizenship. With those facts, how likely am I to be approved for citizenship by descent?
I was born in Canada & became a permanent resident in the US at age 4. I became a US citizen at 22. Are my children Canadian Citizens? My oldest was born a few months prior to me becoming a citizen of the US. Is he only eligible or are my other 2 children that were born after I became a US citizen Canadian Citizens also?
My father was born in Tofield, Alberta Canada in 1920 and lived there through his childhood and through his youth. I was born in January, 1950. He became a naturalized US citizen in May of 1950.
After reviewing this website I realized I can claim Canadian citizenship. I have obtained a copy of his naturalization form from May 1950. Let me know how to continue this process. Thank you for your help.
All 4 of my grandparents were born in Quebec. would I be eligable for citizenship?
My father and grandparents were born in Canada. They moved to the US in about 1941 and were forced to give up their Canadian citizenship in order to get US citizenship. That happened when my dad was a kid so obviously he was not a citizen in 1969 when I was born. Would I still have a chance of getting Canadian citizenship?
Hi there i am a South African.
My Grandmother was born in New Zealand 1923 under British Rule. Her Father and Grandfather also born in New Zealand.
The rest of the family born in Canada. From information received if you were born before 2009 you can still apply for Canadian citizenship if your ancestors were born in Canada even a few generations back. I have all documents re same of such family from Canada. Please advise re same.
Thank you.
My mother was born in Lloydminster in 1921 to a mother born in Scotland, arriving in Saskatchewan in 1919, and a father born in England, coming to Canada in 1906. She moved with her parents to Michigan in 1923 and became a U.S. citizen in 1940’s together with her father. Her mother became a U.S. citizen in the 1950’s. Would they still have retained Canadian citizenship allowing my brother, born in 1947, and me, born 1949, in U.S. eligible for Canadian citizenship?
My fiancé was born in Montreal, Canada to a Canadian father and an American mother. When they moved from Montreal to the USA around 1980, the U.S. State Department took my fiancé’s birth certificate and gave him a U.S. passport. He was a child at that time. According to his family, the U.S. State Dept. still has my fiance’s birth certificate. But his U.S. passport is long expired. What happens now?
Hello!
My grandparents were born in Montreal in 1902 & 1903. They gave birth to my father in 1936 in the US. They never registered my father’s birth with the Canadian Embassy. I was born in the US in ’72, I am wanting to apply to check citizenship status, I have baptism records for both my grandparents though they are not certified. I would be interested in attorney services if I had a valid chance.
Both of my grandparents on my mother’s side were born in Newfoundland in the early 1900’s and immigrated to the US in the late 1920’s. My grandmother became a naturalized US citizen in 1936 and my mother was born in the US in 1937. No records of my grandfather’s status. Am I considered a citizen by decent.
My grandparents were born in Newfoundland in the early 1900s and immigrated to the US in the late 1920s. My grandmother became a naturalized US citizen in 1936. Have not found any records for my grandfather. My mother was born on US in 1937 and I was born in 1970. Does this qualify me for citizen ship be decent.
My father is a canadian Citizen , i am a filipino born in that country (PI) came to Canada on the year 2005 , He is deceased and was buried in Vancouver BC , Yes he is a canadian and according to my aunt , he came in Canada from New York year 1964 if i am not mistaken. a) i am not a canadian citizen yet , yes a permanent resident, for i came to Canada under a canadian nanny Program
B) and I am married to a canadian (born and raise here,in canada c) I was born out of wedlock according to my Aunt d) my father visited me for my recollection at least 4 or 5 times in my life back home. I would be happy to know anything about this, and am i included in this :Canadienne by Decent.
I thank you, in anticipation
Two questions:
(1) My mother was born in Quebec in 1937. I was born in Florida in 1967. My mother was a resident alien in the US at that time, and was not naturalized until 1973. Does that make me eligable for dual citizenship?
(2) I am actually adopted. Given that I was adopted by a Canadian citizen in 1967, am I eligable for dual citizenship, or is blood relation a requirement?
My father was born in Canada but moved to the states when he was a teenager. Does the citizenship by descent still apply if a parent was born in Canada and then became a naturalized US citizen?
My grandfather was born in Montreal in 1917. He naturalized to the US in 1942. His papers list him as a “British subject” not as a Canadian citizen.
My mom (his daughter) was born in the US in 1942. I was born in the US in 1974. When I last explored this, I was denied because of his status as a British subject. Do I have recourse to obtain Canadian citizenship? If so, what is the next step please? Thank you.
My father was born in Canada and he lived there until age 26.He then moved to US and became a US citizen. He is deceased. I was born in US and I am a US citizen. I want to remain a US citizen. Can I obtain a Canadian Passport?
My Maternal Grandmother was a Canadian Citizen by Immigration process. She Lived there more than 5 years. Now she had been demised. Are we (My Mother or us) are eligible as Canadian Citizen?
Or Can we apply for citizenship
My mother was born in Newfoundland in 1933. I was conceived there in 1954, but born in ny. My !other remained Canadian her entire life. Can I emigrate to Canada?
My husbands Paternal great grandmother was born in St. Luce, Rimouski, Quebec in 1878. His grandmother was born in Wisconsin in 1896. My husband was born in 1955. Is it eligible for citizenship? We do not have any descendents.
I am a Canadian citizen and my daughter who was born abroad was granted her citizenship by descent in 1990. She currently living abroad and will give birth to her first child during the first half of 2021.
1. Will her child be eligible to Canadian citizenship by descent if the child is born abroad?
2. Will her child be eligible to Canadian citizenship by birth if the child is born in Canada?
Thank you
Moyez
Hello, My grandfather was born in Montréal in 1939. My dad was born in the U.S. in 1967. I was born in the U.S. in 1998. My grandfather never renounced his Canadian citizenship, but I’m not sure he has original copies of his paperwork, and most birth records were not civil records in Québec when he was born, they were church records. Not sure what to do next. I think I’m eligible because I was born before 2009 but I’m not sure.
My father was Canadian born in the 1930s. I was born and reside outside of Canada. Can I still receive citizenship? I thought I saw something that said I could if I lived in Canada for 3 of the last four years. Can you clarify for me please. Many Thanks
Hello,
My grandmother was born in Trois Rivieres, Quebec in 1910. She became an American citizen and has since passed away. Could I qualify for citizenship?
My maternal grandmother was Canadian. My mother and I would both like to apply for Canadian citizenship. I assume my mother’s application will be successful. Should I let her apply and be granted citizenship before I apply or could we just do so together? Thanks!!
I am an American citizen and travel a lot overseas for my non-profit organization. Having a Canadian passport would be a great benefit. My mother was born in Canada in 1918, moved to Michigan when she married my father in 1948 – but wasn’t allowed to keep her Canadian citizenship.
What is my status with Canada… can I receive dual citizenship and get a Canadian Passport?
Hi, both my grandmother and grandfather on my dads side were born in Canada in the 40s. My dad is looking to become a Canadian citizen and so am i. Is this even possible for me?
Hi.
My grandfather was born in Newfoundland in 1898. He arrived in Argentina in 1914.
I am taking the citizenship test for my mother and her brothers. As a first generation, I think it’s their due.
That process is done, my question is if I can later apply for citizenship as a granddaughter. I was born in 1971.
If citizenship is not possible, can I obtain permanent residence?
My father immigrated to Canada when he was 5 and was a Canadian Citizen. He later moved to USA and became a US citizen, just before I was born. Would I still qualify for a Canadian passport/citizenship in this situation? (I do have a lot of relatives in Canada.)
Because of your father, you have a birthright to Canadian citizenship, however, you should apply for your proof of Canadian Citizenship. To do so you will need a copy of your father’s birth certificate.
The easiest and quickest way to apply for proof of Canadian citizenship is by using online services. To begin the process of obtaining proof of your Canadian citizenship you should sign up online at http://canadacitizenshiphelp.ca/ and choose the “Canadian Citizenship by Descent” option.
You will receive your Canadian Citizenship certificate in 6 to 8 months. The total cost of obtaining proof of Canadian Citizenship is $300. This includes all government application processing fees, form and picture assessment, a pre-approval of the application before you send it, and the cost of shipping the Citizenship Certificate to you.
AG
Both my parents and siblings were born in Canada I was born in America. I was told that I had duel citizenship until I was 18. That has long past I was born in 1964. Does that mean I still have duel citizenship?
Dear Sue:
Because of your parents, you have a birthright to Canadian citizenship, however, you should apply for your proof of Canadian Citizenship. To do so you will need a copy of your parents’ birth certificate.
The easiest and quickest way to apply for proof of Canadian citizenship is by using the online services. To begin the process of obtaining proof of your Canadian citizenship you should sign up online at http://canadacitizenshiphelp.ca/ and choose the “Canadian Citizenship by Descent” option.
You will receive your Canadian Citizenship certificate in 6 to 8 months. The total cost of obtaining proof of Canadian Citizenship is $300. This includes all government application processing fees, form and picture assessment, a pre-approval of the application before you send it, and the cost of shipping the Citizenship Certificate to you.
Ellen
My grandfather’s grandmother was born in Ontario November 25 1864. Would I qualify for citizenship by being a Descendant ?
Hi! My grandmother was born in Canada. If I become a citizen, does my wife and two children become citizens as well? If not, how can I make that happen? I will get her birthplace info and get her birth certificate. Is that all I need? Do I need my father’s birth certificate or just mine? Thanks Greg
My late father was born in Canada in 1925. Soon after that, his family moved to Detroit and became American citizens. Am I eligible for Canadian citizenship by descent?
Because of your father, you have a birthright to Canadian citizenship, however, you should apply for your proof of Canadian Citizenship. To do so you will need a copy of your father’s birth certificate.
The easiest and quickest way to apply for proof of Canadian citizenship is by using the online services. To begin the process of obtaining proof of your Canadian citizenship you should sign up online at http://canadacitizenshiphelp.ca/ and choose the “Canadian Citizenship by Descent” option.
You will receive your Canadian Citizenship certificate in 6 to 8 months. The total cost of obtaining proof of Canadian Citizenship is $300. This includes all government application processing fees, form and picture assessment, a pre-approval of the application before you send it, and the cost of shipping the Citizenship Certificate to you.
AG
My Grandfather was born in 1899 in Fredericton, New Brunswick.
He ended up in Boston after WWI and eventually, Rutland, Vermont where my father was born in 1926.
I was born in Plymouth, Mass. in 1961, interestingly enough, the first male decendent on my fathers side to arrive in The New World landed in Plimoth Colony in the 1640’s and appears in the Plimoth court records for selling liquor to “the Indians”. He banished to “the Frontier” which was what is now Taunton, Mass. about 20 miles due west of Plymouth. During the Revolutionary War, the family seemed to have split, those loyal to the crown moving to Canada, and some moving to The South where the name was slightly different but still derived from Bobet. Babbitt – New England and Canada, Bobbitt – Southern States. I think my grandfather, while successful, may have made a mistake and if the criminal in the White House secures another term, I’ll have no choice but to emigrate to Canada.
My paternal grandparents were born and raised in Nova Scotia. Moved to USA in the 1920s Got naturalization papers in 1929.
My father was born in USA in 1926 to my Canadian grandparents. I was born in the USA in 1956
Am I eligible for dual citizenship? If so, how do I apply ?
My grandfather was born in England, but fought for Canada in WWI. I am American. Am I eligible for Canadian citizenship?
My grandparents were Canadian citizens by birth who moved to the USA in 1914. My uncles were born in Canada, but my mother was born in the USA in 1916. Her parents were not naturalized until 1937. My mother never applied for Canadian citizenship. She and my grandparents are deceased. Might I count as a first generation applicant, since my mother was born while her parents were still Canadian citizens?
I became a naturalized Canadian citizen in 1977 and I was working so I had a SIN. I lost my citizenship and SIN card ( although I know this number by heart). My daughter wants to claim citizenship by descent. What would be the first step in this process? Do I need to prove my citizenship first or will this be on record in Canada or should she go straight for a citizenship application?
Hello, My Grandfather on my mother’s side is a Canadian citizen by naturalization. He had my mother outside Canada in the 1960s. I’m not quite sure if he became a citizen after or before. Does she have a claim and by so doing her children?
My grandmother was born in 1941 before the citizenship act. I was born in 1993 before the 2006 deadline. does this mean I’m eligible for dual citizenship?
Hi, my father was a Canadian citizen and my brother and I, although born in the UK have both obtained proof of our Canadian citizenship (dual with our British citizenship)
I would like my three kids, all born before 2009 to also have Canadian citizenship, they were all born here in London UK.
Is that possible, what are the deciding elements and how can we start that process?
Many thanks
My 4 grandsons were born between 2009 and 2017 in Utah.
Their father was born in Alberta, Canada (1980), as were their paternal grandparents. (1946, 1948)
Are they considered to be Canadian citizens?
Hello,
My late grandmother was born in Canada and was a Canadian citizen, though she became an American citizen when she moved to the U.S. Would I be able to possibly apply for and successfully obtain Canadian citizenship?
Hello. I was born in America in April 1992. My grandmother was born and raised in Quebec, but died in America before I was born, with her green card. My mother did not take her birthright to dual citizenship while she was alive (she recently passed away in September), but it has been my dream to visit extended family there and eventually move one day. I already speak French, too. Would I be eligible to dual citizenship by descent?
My husband’s mother was born in Poland in 1927, and moved with her parents to Canada when she was a child. Her family all became naturalized Canadian citizens. She had a child in 1946, while still in Canada. She, the child, and her parents moved to New York in 1947 or 1948, and she became a U.S. citizen. My husband was born in NY in 1953. I understand her first child is a rightful Canadian, having been born there as the child of a naturalized citizen, but does my husband have any claim?
My great, great grandfather was Canadian. He emigrated to the US in 1876. I have traced back a direct line from myself to him. Can I obtain dual citizenship under the Decent law?
Hi: My father was born in the United States in 1903.
– He then moved to Canada with his father (my Grandfather) in 1904. My Grandfather was not a Canadian citizen at the time.
– In 1909, my Grandfather was naturalized in Canada.
– Can I apply for citizen by descent?
– Also, I have researched and discovered that before 1915, the naturalization papers were given to the new citizen and no copies were kept by the government. My Grandfather, however, was in the 1911 census and named as a Canadian citizen in the census.
-So can I claim citizen by descent with proof of the census information?
I was born in Toronto in 1949 to Canadian citizen parents. After my father died we moved to California and I became a naturalized U.S. citizen automatically when my mother became a U.S. citizen. I was 10 years old and had no say in the matter! I would like to apply for dual citizenship–not because I intend to move to Canada, but because I never wanted to lose my Canadian citizenship.
HI, my mother was born in Newfoundland in 1922 and was never a Canadian citizen (she was subject of British). How do I get a Canadian citizenship certificate. My ancestors in Newfoundland go back to the 1700s.
Hi, can my daughter get dual US Canadian citizenship if i dropped my Canadian citizenship when i became a US citizen?
My mother was born in Canada in 1946, I was born in US in 1972. My mom was told she couldn’t register her child as dual citizen, only men could do that. I haven’t applied for Canadian citizenship yet, but understand I should be eligible and intend to do so soon. My daughter was born in 2005 in the US (my wife US as well) and would like get her Canadian citizenship also. It seems through the 2009 first generation limit, she would not be eligible for Canadian citizenship. Can you help?
Hi, I hope I can get some help as I am outside of Canada and trying to do the spousal sponsorship for my wife but don’t know which category I fall under in the citizenship question.
I was born in Poland in 1985 and in 1987 or 88 or so my mother moved to Canada first from Italy and my father then brought me from Poland to Canada in 1989. I dont have my citizenship card right now but I am pretty sure I got my citizenship card in 1994 if my photographic memory serves me right (but I am not 100% sure if it was earlier).
On my sponsorship application I’ve been asked if I am a Citizen by descent, citizen by naturalization or permanent resident.
I hope its by descent as I have no clue of the date for the other as I was a child and kinda just became canadian.
Hope you can help
Hi my great grandparents and my grandfather were Canadian he was born in 1921 and died in 1998.
He meet my grandmother in England during WW2 and that is how my father came about. My Grandfather went off to Italy so was not around to put his name on my fathers birth certificate. They never married as it turned out he was already married with a child. My grandfathers wife divorced him for adultry and corresponded with my grandmother
Using evidence provided by her. I have most of the letters still today.
Considering the circumstances they got on really well.
I have a copy of the divorce papers but it doesn’t mention the details which is disappointing.
Anyway the simple question is could I get Canadian citizenship.
My father was born in Canada, but his family came to the US when he was 5 years old (in 1931). What documents (other than the application) do I need to apply?
I have a question. My grandmother was born in British Columbia in 1941. In 1981, my mother was born in the US. She’s told me she’s a Canadian citizen. If I was born in the US in 2010, am I legally a Canadian citizen?
In 1941, my grandmother was born in Victoria, British Columbia. In 1981, my mom was born in the US, technically an American citizen. I was born in the US in 2010. Am I a citizen? Are my siblings born 2012 and 2015?
*Funnily, on my DAD’S side of the family, there are six grandchildren. If my (two) siblings and I are citizens, only two aren’t! (My uncle moved to Canada and married a Canadian woman. Their child has dual citizenship.)
Hello Chris,
I have a similar situation where as my father was a British subject by birth and came to Canada in 1970. I came to Canada immediately after as well as a minor. He applied for, and received, his Canadian Citizenship in 1976. I was still in Canada when he received his Citizenship. Does this afford me the opportunity to automatically receive Canadian Citizenship because I was a minor and had Canadian domicile?
My husband was born in the US in 1976 and given up for adoption. His biological father born in 1949 in the US died in 1979. His biological paternal grandfather was born into a large family in Ontario, Canada in 1898. He died in the US in 1979.
Would my husband qualify for Candian citizenship?
Hi, my father obtained his Canadian Nationality in the year 2019.
I am Costa Rican, 32 years old, its possible for me obtain the canadian nationality? (actually)
My grandfather born in 1889, he was neutralized as british subject on 1932 then he got the citizenship on 1947. On 1951 he lost his citizenship, then on 2009 new law his citizenship was back to him. My father born on 1952 and deceased on 2018.
I born on 1983, is possible for me to grant the citizenship by descent.
If my great-grandparents were born and raised in Canada, am I eligible for Canadian citizenship?
My grandmother was born in British Columbia in early February of 1941, and had my mom in mid-January 1981 in Washington state. My mom has mentioned that she is an unregistered Canadian citizen. My siblings and I were born in early February 2010, late January 2012, and early July 2015, all in Missouri. Are my siblings and I considered citizens?