Applications for Canadian citizenship certificates have surged globally in recent months, driven by a significant influx of applications from the United States, as reported by CBC News. The issuance of certificates under the “Lost Canadian” legislation, passed by Parliament late last year, has spiked by almost 50% between April 1 and May 31, according to recent CBC data.
The enactment of Bill C-3 enables individuals to claim citizenship if they can demonstrate descent from a Canadian ancestor, even if that ancestor emigrated generations ago. This legislation was introduced following court rulings deeming the previous citizenship restrictions too stringent. Since mid-December, approximately 6,100 citizenship certificates have been granted to eligible individuals by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
Moreover, prior to the adoption of the bill, individuals born outside Canada were required to have a Canadian parent to qualify for citizenship. Another 17,390 individuals have been issued certificates based on having a Canadian parent. These certificates grant the newly recognized 23,490 Canadian citizens the ability to apply for Canadian passports and reside and work in the country. However, they are ineligible to vote in federal elections unless they have resided in Canada at some point in their lives.
Of the total individuals recognized, nearly half originate from the United States, with 3,110 Americans meeting the criteria for Canadian citizenship through Bill C-3 and an additional 8,125 through having a Canadian-born parent.
The number of pending citizenship certificate applications has escalated significantly, with 121,800 individuals currently awaiting a decision, up from around 56,000 in April. The estimated processing time for a decision has doubled from 12 months in May to 25 months as of August 10.
Estimates suggest a considerable number of individuals could potentially qualify for Canadian citizenship under Bill C-3, with projections ranging widely. The parliamentary budget officer approximates that around 115,000 individuals could be impacted by the legislative change.
As demand for genealogical records surges, Canadian archivists are experiencing a substantial increase in requests for records necessary to prove lineage for Canadian citizenship certificates under Bill C-3. The Association of Canadian Archivists has reported a significant rise in requests, with some institutions witnessing a surge of 100 to 300%. The association is advocating for increased funding to address the heightened demand for genealogical records.
In response to the growing number of applications, IRCC has undertaken measures to streamline application processing while preserving the integrity of the citizenship program. Despite the evolving document requirements, IRCC has not altered its prerequisites but has enhanced clarity on its website and in public information materials.
The recent suspension of around 100 citizenship certificates by IRCC due to document discrepancies has raised concerns among archivists, who fear a potential wave of individuals needing additional genealogical records. While some suspensions have been resolved, others are required to provide further evidence within 60 days to retain their citizenship certificates. Failure to comply could result in revocation of their citizenship status.