Canada Immigration - Citizenship Certificate
The Canadian citizenship certificate is a standard document produced by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) that serves as irrefutable proof of citizenship. Along with the Canadian birth certificate, it is one of only two documents accepted as proof of Canadian citizenship by Passport Canada.
quick facts
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Processing time: 12 months.
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Processing fee $75.
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Can I travel with Canadian Citizenship Certificate: No. It's not a travel document.
Index at a glance: Canadian Citizenship Certificate
Who can apply for a Canadian citizenship Certificate?
If you were born outside of Canada and at least one of your biological or legal parents was a Canadian citizen at the time of your birth, you are eligible for Canadian citizenship. In order for the Canadian government to determine your citizenship status, you must apply for "proof of Canadian citizenship" application (also known as applying for a "Canadian citizenship certificate").
Notably, Canada restricts citizenship by descent to the first generation born outside of Canada to a Canadian father.
You can apply for a certificate of Canadian citizenship at any point in your life. You may also file the application regardless of whether or not your Canadian parent is living.
You are most likely a Canadian citizen if one of your parents (biological or legal) were:
1. Born in Canada
2. Became naturalized Canadian citizens before you were born.
3. You were born on or after April 17, 2009, and at least one of your birth parents was a Canadian citizen when you were born.
You are probably NOT a Canadian citizen if you:
Were born on or after April 17, 2009, and at least one of your birth parents was a Canadian citizen when you were born BUT:
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your Canadian parent was born outside Canada to a Canadian parent.
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your Canadian parent was born outside Canada and granted Canadian citizenship through the adoptive grant provisions of the Citizenship Act before you were born.
How to apply for a Canadian Citizenship Certificate?
Download IRCC's application package to apply for a Canadian citizenship certificate. IRCC requires proof that at least one of your parents was a Canadian citizen at birth. Online on IRCC's website.
Once IRCC receives your application, it will be evaluated and processed.
Check your application's status online at IRCC. Processing complex files takes longer. In rare instances, IRCC offers urgent processing. This helps people access advantages including healthcare, a social insurance number, a job, or emergency travel to or from Canada.
Need help in applying for Canadian Citizenship Certificate? Hire an authorized paid representative.
IMMERGITY Immigration Consultant are very experienced with the application process and can help you navigate the system. We will also provide valuable insights and tips on how to increase your chances of success. Get in touch now.
If you're thinking of hiring a representative, be sure to check that they're authorized by IRCC. You can verify our credentials by clicking here.
Hiring a representative is not required, but it can be helpful, especially if you're not familiar with the application process. If you decide to hire a representative, be sure to choose someone who you trust and who you feel comfortable working with.