| Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada
| backgrounders
The Government of Canada recognizes the importance of the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) and Crown servants working abroad and their commitment to defending the values and interests of Canada. This is why new legislation to amend the Citizenship Act would fast-track citizenship for permanent residents (PRs) and individuals on exchange who are serving Canada in the CAF and allow children born to those serving Canada abroad to pass on citizenship to their children. It would also take citizenship away from dual citizens or deny citizenship for PRs who commit certain offences against Canada's national interests.
| Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada
| backgrounders
On January 1, 1947, the first Canadian Citizenship Act came into effect. Before that date, a person who was born or naturalized in Canada was considered a British subject. The Citizenship Act of 1947 established who was, and who could become, a Canadian citizen.
| Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada
| backgrounders
Citizenship and Immigration Canada's (CIC) Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) fees have not increased for almost two decades. The modest fee increases are long overdue and will ensure that applicants pay a fee that more accurately represents the true costs involved in processing their applications and will reduce the burden on Canadian taxpayers.
| Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada
| backgrounders
Since the Canadian Citizenship Act of 1947, adult applicants for citizenship have been required to have an adequate knowledge of Canada's official languages, English or French. This requirement reflects the importance of language ability to newcomers' successful integration.
| Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada
| backgrounders
One year after the government reformed Canada's asylum system to provide faster and fairer protection to genuine refugees fleeing persecution, the results support the goals. Genuine refugees are getting the protection they need sooner. Failed asylum claimants with unfounded claims are being removed more quickly. And Canadian taxpayers' generosity is no longer being abused.