Canada Citizenship by Birth (2025)

What is Citizenship by Birth in Canada?

Canada follows the jus soli principle, meaning any child born on Canadian soil is automatically granted Canadian citizenship, regardless of their parents’ nationality, except for children of foreign diplomats.

Additionally, Canada recognizes jus sanguinis, allowing individuals born abroad to obtain Canadian citizenship if at least one parent is a Canadian citizen, provided the birth is registered with Canadian authorities.

Canada Overview

Capital

Ottawa

Total Area

9,984,670 km²

Population

41.0M

Language

English, French

Currency

Canadian Dollar

Time Zone

UTC-3.5 to -8

Unlock Your Path to Canada Citizenship in 2025

Considering Canada as a new home or exploring citizenship options? Canada’s inclusive birth citizenship laws, rooted in jus soli and jus sanguinis principles, make it an attractive destination. Our Canada Citizenship by Birth Guide 2025 provides everything you need to know as of May 14, 2025.

Requirements for Canada Citizenship by Birth (2025)

To qualify for Canadian citizenship by birth, you must meet one of these criteria:

• Born within Canada’s national territory, including its airspace and territorial waters, except for children of foreign diplomats.
• If born abroad, at least one parent must be a Canadian citizen at the time of birth, and the birth must be registered with a Canadian embassy or consulate to obtain a Citizenship Certificate.
• Note: Since 2009, citizenship by descent is limited to the first generation born abroad, unless the parent was employed by the Canadian government or military.

Canada Citizenship by Birth Step by Step

If you're eligible for Canadian citizenship by birth, here's the step-by-step process to apply. Follow these guidelines to ensure your application is successful.

1. Gather Required Documents

Before you apply, make sure you have the following documents:

• Birth Certificate: A certified copy of your Canadian birth certificate issued by the provincial or territorial vital statistics office.
• Parental Proof of Nationality: If applicable, proof that your parent(s) are Canadian citizens (e.g., birth certificate, citizenship certificate, or passport).
• Valid Identification: Passport or government-issued ID.
• Additional Supporting Documents: Any other documents required by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).

2. Register the Birth

To confirm citizenship, you must register the birth with the appropriate Canadian authorities:

• In Canada: Register the birth with the provincial or territorial vital statistics office. This automatically confirms citizenship for those born in Canada.
• Outside Canada: Apply for a Citizenship Certificate through a Canadian embassy, consulate, or directly with IRCC. Submit proof of Canadian parentage.

3. Submit Your Application

Complete the application forms provided by the vital statistics office or IRCC. Submit your documents for verification. Pay any required fees (see the Costs section below).

4. Wait for Processing

After submitting your application, it will be reviewed by the appropriate Canadian authorities. Processing times vary, typically taking a few weeks for in-Canada registrations and up to 12 months for Citizenship Certificate applications.

5. Receive Your Citizenship

Once approved, you will receive official recognition of your Canadian citizenship, typically in the form of a birth certificate (for those born in Canada) or a Citizenship Certificate (for those born abroad).

6. Costs of Application

Be aware of the following potential costs:

• Application Fees: Birth registration fees vary by province/territory; Citizenship Certificate applications cost approximately CAD 75 (as of 2025).
• Document Fees: Costs for obtaining certified copies, notarization, or translations of documents.

Confirm the exact fees at the time of application by contacting the vital statistics office or IRCC.

7. Additional Tips

• Start Early: Ensure all documents are complete and certified. Incomplete applications can delay processing.
• Check for Updates: Citizenship laws can change. Verify current requirements on the IRCC website before applying.
• Consult a Professional: If unsure, consult a Canadian immigration lawyer or expert to navigate complex cases.

Map of Canada Visa Free

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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