People who might not have Canadian citizenship

Some people may think they have Canadian citizenship when in fact they do not.

People who are not a Canadian citizen if:

  • were born in Canada to foreign diplomats
  • had their citizenship taken away (revoked)
  • renounced the Canadian citizenship and never applied to get it back
  • marry a Canadian citizen
  • Adopted by a Canadian citizen
  • have their refugee claim accepted
  • live in Canada as a permanent resident for many years
  • were born outside Canada to Canadian parents on or after April 17, 2009, but neither parent was born or naturalized in Canada

However, if any of these situations apply to you, there may still be a chance to immigrate to Canada through one of the country’s many immigration programs. When permanent residency is obtained, you may become eligible to apply for Canadian citizenship.

Conversely, you likely are a Canadian citizen if one of the following points describes you:

  • were born in Canada (except to foreign diplomats)
  • became a citizen because of changes to the Citizenship Act
  • applied for and received your Canadian citizenship
  • received Canadian citizenship as a minor when a parent or legal guardian applied for your citizenship
  • were born outside Canada and at least one of your parents (biological or legal at birth) either was born in Canada or became a naturalized citizen before you were born

The first-generation rule

You may only be eligible to become a Canadian citizen from birth outside of Canada if your parent was a first-generation Canadian citizen. Citizens who were born in Canada or naturalized (that is, applied for citizenship) are considered first-generation Canadians, within the context of this rule. Therefore, if you were born outside Canada to first-generation Canadians after April 17, 2009, then you would get citizenship.

If you were born outside Canada before this date to a Canadian citizen, regardless of the first-generation rule. However, if this applies to you and you did not get proof of citizenship before, you may have difficulty getting it now.

A lawyer or certified immigration consultant can help you discuss your options for obtaining proof of citizenship.

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