Canada's Bill C-71 Explained: Citizenship by Descent Reforms in Force 2025
Bill C-71, the Strengthening Canadian Citizenship Act, restores Canadian citizenship to beyond-first-generation descendants of Canadians born abroad. Here's who qualifies, what the substantial connection test means, and how to file.
J. Tremblay
Counsel · Law Society of Ontario
What is Bill C-71?
Who qualifies under Bill C-71?
What is the substantial connection test?
How to file under Bill C-71
What about Lost Canadians?
Key Facts
- 1Bill C-71 received Royal Assent on June 20, 2024, and came into force in 2025.
- 2It restores Canadian citizenship to beyond-first-generation descendants of Canadians born abroad.
- 3The substantial connection test requires 1,095 days (3 years) of physical presence in Canada.
- 4First-generation born abroad remain citizens by right without any residency requirement.
- 5Bill C-71 retroactively reinstates citizenship for most 'Lost Canadians'.
- 6Filing is done through IRCC using form CIT 0001 (adults) or CIT 0003 (minors).
- 7Processing time is approximately 8 to 16 months.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Bill C-71 in Canada?
Bill C-71, the Strengthening Canadian Citizenship Act, is a 2024 amendment to the Citizenship Act that restores Canadian citizenship to beyond-first-generation descendants of Canadians born abroad, subject to a substantial connection test. It came into force in 2025.
What is the substantial connection test under Bill C-71?
The substantial connection test under Bill C-71 requires 1,095 days (three years) of cumulative physical presence in Canada before applying for a grant of citizenship. It applies to second-generation and beyond descendants born abroad; first-generation descendants are exempt.
Who is a Lost Canadian under Bill C-71?
A 'Lost Canadian' is someone who lost or never received Canadian citizenship due to outdated provisions — including the 1947 cutoff, the 1977 transition, the 2009/2015 first-generation limit, or historical gender inequities. Bill C-71 retroactively reinstates citizenship for most Lost Canadians.
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