Americans born to first generation Canadian citizens may be eligible for Canadian citizenship by descent.
In order to prove that you are eligible for citizenship, you need to apply for a Proof of Citizenship. You can apply at any age, and you are still eligible if your parents are deceased. It costs about $75 to apply.
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) requires proof of citizenship applicants to demonstrate their biological or legal parent was in fact a Canadian citizen at the time of your birth. You can provide evidence such as your parent’s birth certificate, Canadian citizenship card, or citizenship certificate.
Get a Free Legal Consultation on Applying for Proof of 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.
Once you submit the Proof of Citizenship application and government fee, IRCC will then review it to make sure it is complete. After that, you will get an “acknowledgment of receipt”. If your case is complicated, IRCC may need to contact you to get more information or documents. IRCC may also need more time to process complicated cases.
Once IRCC approves your application, they will send you a Canadian citizenship certificate.
With the proof of citizenship document you will be able to call Canada home. You can get a Canadian passport, vote in an election, and enjoy the host of privileges that come with being Canadian such as universal health care. At the same time, you do not have to forfeit your U.S. citizenship.
An experienced Canadian immigration lawyer can help you submit your application to ensure you meet all the requirements and can get Canadian citizenship without delay.
Get a Free Legal Consultation on Applying for Proof of Canadian Citizenship
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