Canadian Citizenship for Children Born Abroad (2026 Rules)

If you are a Canadian citizen living abroad, your children born outside Canada are Canadian citizens too. This has always been the case for the first generation born abroad — and thanks to Bill C-3, even grandchildren may now qualify. Here is everything you need to know about securing your child's Canadian citizenship.

If you are a Canadian citizen and your child is born outside Canada, your child is automatically a Canadian citizen by descent. This is true regardless of:

• The country where your child is born
• Your child's other parent's citizenship
• Whether you have ever lived in Canada
• Whether your child has ever visited Canada
• How you obtained your Canadian citizenship (by birth, naturalization, or descent)

Important: This Is Automatic

Your child does not need to apply for citizenship or be approved. They are Canadian from the moment of birth. However, you do need to apply for a citizenship certificate to obtain official proof of their citizenship.

Before Bill C-3 (Pre-2024)

Before Bill C-3, the first-generation limit meant that only the first generation born abroad was automatically Canadian. If you were a Canadian citizen by descent (born abroad yourself) and your child was also born abroad, your child was NOT a Canadian citizen. This was the second-generation limit.

After Bill C-3 (2024 Onwards)

Bill C-3 removes the first-generation limit. Now, even second-generation children born abroad may qualify for Canadian citizenship, provided they demonstrate a substantial connection to Canada. This means:

• If you were born in Canada and your child is born abroad → your child is Canadian (automatic)
• If you were born abroad (first generation) and your child is born abroad (second generation) → your child may be Canadian under Bill C-3 (substantial connection required)

Step 1: Gather Documents

Required documents:

• Completed Application for a Citizenship Certificate (CIT 0001)
• Your child's birth certificate from the country of birth (with certified translation if not in English or French)
• Your Canadian citizenship proof (birth certificate, citizenship certificate, or passport)
• Your child's passport photos (two identical)
• Marriage certificate (if applicable)
• Processing fee ($75 CAD)

Step 2: Complete the Application

Download form CIT 0001 from the IRCC website. Fill it out for your child. If your child is under 18, a parent or legal guardian must sign the application.

Step 3: Submit to IRCC

Mail the completed application with all supporting documents to IRCC. You can also submit through a Canadian embassy or consulate abroad.

Step 4: Receive the Certificate

Processing takes approximately 5-12 months. Once approved, you will receive a citizenship certificate for your child. This document confirms their Canadian citizenship.

Once you have the citizenship certificate, you can apply for a Canadian passport for your child:

• Child passport (0-15 years): Valid for 5 years, costs $57 CAD
• Apply at: Any Canadian embassy, consulate, or passport office
• Documents needed: Citizenship certificate, child's birth certificate, passport photos, parental consent

In addition to the citizenship certificate, you should:

1. Register the birth with the local authorities in the country where your child was born
2. Report the birth to the nearest Canadian embassy or consulate
3. Obtain a local birth certificate — this is an important document even though your child is Canadian

What if I adopted a child abroad?

If you are a Canadian citizen and you adopt a child from another country, the child may be eligible for Canadian citizenship. The process depends on whether the adoption is finalized before or after the child arrives in Canada. Contact IRCC for specific guidance.

Can my child get a Canadian SIN?

Yes. Once your child has a citizenship certificate or passport, they can get a Social Insurance Number. This is needed if your child will earn income in Canada or if you want to open a Registered Education Savings Plan (RESP) for them.

What if I am not sure if I am Canadian?

If you are unsure whether you are a Canadian citizen, see our guide: Am I Already a Canadian Citizen?. Bill C-3 has expanded eligibility significantly.

If you or your partner are applying for Canadian citizenship through naturalization, CitizenPass is the best preparation tool:

• 600+ Practice Questions — Same format as the real IRCC test
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• 80+ Lessons — All 12 Discover Canada chapters
• Bilingual — English and French
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For official information, visit IRCC — Citizenship for children born abroad.