Canadian citizenship by birth

Canadian citizenship by birth refers to the automatic acquisition of Canadian citizenship by individuals who are born in Canada. It is based on the principle of “jus soli,” which means “right of the soil.

How to get citizenship by naturalization in Canada

Canadian citizenship by birth is granted to individuals who are born in Canada and meet certain criteria. Here’s some important information about Canadian citizenship by birth:

  1. Birth in Canada. If you are born in Canada, you are automatically a Canadian citizen, regardless of the nationality or immigration status of your parents. This principle is known as “jus soli,” which means “right of the soil.”
  2. Exceptions for children of foreign diplomats. Automatic citizenship by birth does not apply to children born in Canada to foreign diplomats or other individuals who have diplomatic status. In such cases, the children typically do not acquire Canadian citizenship by birth.
  3. Children of Canadian citizens born abroad. Canadian citizenship by birth may also be granted to individuals born abroad if at least one of their parents is a Canadian citizen either by birth or naturalization. However, certain conditions and requirements may need to be met, such as the parent being a citizen at the time of the child’s birth and having spent a certain period of time in Canada.
  4. Proof of citizenship. In most cases, individuals born in Canada can obtain proof of their Canadian citizenship by applying for a Canadian citizenship certificate or a Canadian passport.

Documentation and Application

When applying for Canadian citizenship by birth, you generally need to gather specific documentation and submit an application to obtain proof of your citizenship. Here’s an overview of the documentation and application process:

Application form

To apply for proof of Canadian citizenship, you need to complete the Application for a Citizenship Certificate (Form CIT 0001). This form is available on the official website of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).

Supporting documents

Along with your application form, you’ll need to include supporting documents to demonstrate your eligibility for Canadian citizenship by birth. The specific documents required may vary depending on your circumstances, but generally, you’ll need:

  • Proof of identity. This includes documents such as your birth certificate, passport, or other government-issued identification.
  • Proof of parentage. You may need to provide documents to establish the citizenship or immigration status of your parent(s) at the time of your birth, such as their Canadian citizenship certificate or permanent resident card.
  • Additional documents. Depending on the situation, additional documents may be required, such as marriage certificates, divorce decrees, or legal name change documents.

Application fee

There is an application fee for obtaining a citizenship certificate. The fee amount can change over time, so check the current fee on the IRCC website. Payment can be made by credit card, debit card, certified cheque, or money order.

Submission

Once you have completed the application form, gathered the required documents, and paid the fee, you can submit your application to the IRCC. You can send the application by mail or apply online through the IRCC’s online portal, depending on the available options.

Processing time

The processing time for obtaining proof of Canadian citizenship can vary. It’s advisable to check the IRCC website for the most up-to-date processing times.

Dual Nationality

Canadian citizens are allowed to hold citizenship of another country simultaneously. If you are a Canadian citizen and acquire citizenship of another country, you can generally retain your Canadian citizenship.

FAQ

Who is eligible for Canadian citizenship by birth?

Individuals who are born in Canada are generally eligible for Canadian citizenship by birth. However, there are exceptions for children of foreign diplomats or individuals with diplomatic status.

Is Canadian citizenship by birth automatic?

Yes, Canadian citizenship by birth is automatic for individuals born in Canada, meaning they are considered Canadian citizens without the need to apply or go through a formal process.

Do both parents need to be Canadian citizens for a child to acquire Canadian citizenship by birth?

No, both parents do not need to be Canadian citizens. As long as a child is born in Canada, they are eligible for Canadian citizenship regardless of the nationality or immigration status of their parents.

Can a child born in Canada sponsor their non-Canadian parents for Canadian citizenship automatically?

No, simply being born in Canada does not grant the child the ability to sponsor their non-Canadian parents for Canadian citizenship. The child would need to meet the eligibility requirements for sponsorship as outlined by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).

Can a child born outside Canada to Canadian parents acquire Canadian citizenship by birth?

Yes, in certain circumstances, a child born outside Canada to Canadian parents may acquire Canadian citizenship by birth. The specific requirements include at least one parent being a Canadian citizen either by birth or by naturalization.

Can I apply for proof of Canadian citizenship if I was born in Canada?

Yes, if you were born in Canada, you can apply for proof of Canadian citizenship by obtaining a Canadian citizenship certificate or a Canadian passport. These documents serve as official proof of your Canadian citizenship.

Can Canadian citizenship by birth be renounced?

Generally, Canadian citizenship acquired by birth cannot be renounced. However, there are certain situations where citizenship acquired through birth may be revoked or invalidated if it was obtained through fraudulent means or misrepresentation.

Can I pass on my Canadian citizenship by birth to my children?

Yes, Canadian citizenship can be passed on to the next generation. If you are a Canadian citizen by birth, you may pass on your Canadian citizenship to your children, even if they are born outside Canada, subject to certain requirements and conditions.

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