Changes to rules on citizenship by descent

Before July 2020, only biological parents could pass down their Canadian citizenship to their children.

As of July 2020, non-biological parents can pass down their Canadian citizenship to their children who were born outside Canada if they’re the child’s legal parent at birth (opens in a new tab).

How to pass your Canadian citizenship down to your child

You can pass down your Canadian citizenship to your child by applying for a citizenship certificate.

• You need to submit a copy of your child’s original birth certificate or record with your application.
• If needed, we’ll ask for supporting documents to make sure that you can pass down your citizenship to your child.

Adopted children born outside Canada

If your adopted child was born outside Canada, they’re not automatically a Canadian citizen. This is to respect the adoption laws of other countries and the Citizenship Act.

You need to apply for your adopted child to become a Canadian citizen.