Canada’s Efforts to Reform Citizenship Laws Delayed Until August

Canada's proposed changes to its citizenship laws, particularly the first-generation limit (FGL), have encountered a setback, now postponed until at least August.

Under the current FGL rule, if a Canadian citizen born abroad has a child outside Canada, that child doesn't automatically become a Canadian citizen. This rule was challenged in Ontario's Supreme Court, which ruled it unconstitutional, arguing it creates a disparity in citizenship rights. Initially, the court-mandated revisions by June 19, 2024.

However, the federal government has obtained an extension from the court, pushing the deadline to August 9, 2024, with conditions for continued progress.

An Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) spokesperson informed CTV News that a hearing scheduled for August 1, 2024, will determine whether an extension to December 2024 is necessary. The court has also requested a status update on the implementation of Bill C-71, aimed at repealing the FGL rule since May 2024, with a goal to pass the bill by December 19, 2024.

Bill C-71 proposes amendments to grant citizenship to eligible foreign nationals with Canadian parents who have a substantial connection to Canada, defined as at least 1,095 days of physical presence before the child's birth or adoption.

With the House of Commons in recess until mid-September, further delays in amending the FGL rule may extend into December of this year.

Despite the delays, IRCC has introduced temporary measures effective since May 30th. These measures allow eligible individuals seeking urgent processing of their citizenship applications to be granted discretionary citizenship by the Immigration Minister.

The temporary measures apply in two scenarios: applicants with pending proof of citizenship applications affected by the FGL rule can request expedited processing to ensure prompt citizenship acquisition.

Canadian citizenship offers numerous advantages, including the freedom to enter, reside, work, and settle in Canada, voting rights, eligibility to run for political office, and access to a globally respected Canadian passport.

While most permanent residents choose to pursue Canadian citizenship, some opt to maintain their permanent resident status, despite forgoing certain rights and privileges.