You can now submit proof of Canadian citizenship applications online

Shelby Thevenot
Published: November 6, 2021

Canada is now accepting online requests for proof of citizenship.

Using the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) online portal, you can submit your application, pay the fees, and send any supporting documents.

There are three actions you can take with the new portal:

  • request a replacement proof-of-citizenship (also called a citizenship certificate) that does not require changes to the information on the certificate, such as name or birthdate;
  • submit straightforward claims for proof of citizenship by descent; or
  • request a search of citizenship records.

Get professional help applying for Canadian citizenship

You can apply online for a proof of citizenship if your Canadian parent was:

  • granted citizenship on or after April 17, 2009, or
  • born in Canada on or after February 15, 1977.

Otherwise, you will have to submit a paper application.

The government has an online tool that allows you to see if you are eligible to apply online. If so, you will be prompted to create an account, or login with an existing one. You will also need an account if you are requesting your own records. If you are requesting someone else's records, you have to make the request on paper.

IRCC says in a media release the applications will save time for those making requests from outside Canada and the U.S. You no longer need to go in person to an embassy or high commission to submit these applications— but you can if you want to.

The Canadian government will still accept and process paper applications. If you already submitted a paper application, IRCC says not to complete an online application for the same request.

About proof of citizenship

If you were born outside Canada, but one of your parents was born in Canada, you may be eligible for citizenship status. In order to get it though, you need a Proof of Citizenship.

With this document, you can enjoy the benefits of citizenship, such as getting a Canadian passport, working in Canada, or voting in Canadian elections.

Get professional help applying for Canadian citizenship

© CIC News All Rights Reserved. Visit CanadaVisa.com to discover your Canadian immigration options.

Share this article
Share your voice
Did you find this article helpful?
Thank you for your feedback.
Subscribe to our newsletter
Did you find this article helpful?
Please provide a response
Thank you for your helpful feedback
Please contact us if you would like to share additional feedback, have a question, or would like Canadian immigration assistance.
  • Do you need Canadian immigration assistance? Contact the Contact Cohen Immigration Law firm by completing our form
  • Send us your feedback or your non-legal assistance questions by emailing us at media@canadavisa.com
Related articles
How can I apply for Canadian citizenship?
A picture of a girl holding two Canadian flags
IRCC’s application backlog shows steady increase over the summer
A picture of a sign saying "welcome to Canada"
IRCC’s backlog increasing as department looks to reduce temporary resident numbers
Jasper National Park
What’s the difference between Canadian permanent residency and Canadian citizenship?
A person with a packed bag stands on a road with the Canadian flag in front of them.
Top Stories
Why skilled workers and international graduates in Quebec should consider Express Entry
How to move to Canada from the US
Attending the A.A. International Convention 2025? What to know about entering Canada with your past DUI
Join our free newsletter. Get Canada's top immigration stories delivered to your inbox.
Subscribe
More in Visit
Attending the A.A. International Convention 2025? What to know about entering Canada with your past DUI
A cityscape of Vancouver.
Have a DUI? Here are your options for entering Canada
A "Canada Arrivals" sign.
Frequently asked questions about visas for students, workers and tourists coming to Canada
A picture of the Toronto Skyline at night
10 frequently asked questions by visitors to Canada
View of Skylon Tower and abandond Ontario Power Comany Generating Station at river level seeing from a boat tour
Link copied to clipboard