Many individuals born outside Canada to Canadian parents or grandparents — often called “Lost Canadians” — can now apply for discretionary grants of Canadian citizenship without waiting for amendments to the Citizenship Act. These interim measures open a pathway for people who were excluded by Canada’s first-generation limit (FGL) to citizenship by descent.
This article explains what documents you need, how the process works, and how ICC Immigration can guide you to success.
Who Qualifies for a Discretionary Grant of Citizenship?
This option is for people who may have a strong tie to Canada but lack formal citizenship documentation. Common eligible groups include:
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Children or grandchildren born abroad to Canadian citizens.
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Former British subjects who lived in Canada or Newfoundland and Labrador before citizenship laws changed.
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Women who lost British subject status through marriage before 1947 but had Canadian connections.
By applying now, you can secure your status under current interim measures rather than waiting for future legislative amendments.
Documents Required for All Applicants
Regardless of your situation, every applicant must include:
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Application form CIT 0001 (Application for a Citizenship Certificate).
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Photographs meeting Canadian citizenship photo specifications (two originals for paper applications or one digital photo for online applications).
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Two pieces of valid ID (one must show a photo).
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Proof of payment of the application fee.
Depending on your case, you may also need:
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IMM 5476 Use of a Representative Form (if you’re using a representative).
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Statutory Declaration – Request for a Change of Sex or Gender (if applicable).
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Proof of legal name change, such as a marriage certificate, court order, adoption order, or divorce decree.
Additional Documents Based on Your Situation
Scenario 1: Born Abroad to a Canadian Parent
If you were born outside Canada and never received Canadian citizenship documents, you must provide:
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Foreign birth certificate showing your Canadian parent’s name.
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Proof of your parent’s Canadian citizenship (e.g., provincial or territorial birth certificate, citizenship certificate, Certificate of Retention, British naturalization certificate issued in Canada or Newfoundland and Labrador).
If your Canadian parent’s name is not on your birth certificate, add:
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Supporting documents such as hospital records or pre-birth orders confirming your parent’s identity.
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A written explanation about the missing information or any changes to your birth certificate.
Scenario 2: Former British Subjects with Pre-1947 Residency
If you were a British subject who lived in Canada before January 1, 1947 (or Newfoundland and Labrador before April 1, 1949), you must include:
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Long-form birth certificate issued by your country of birth.
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Proof of British subject status (birth certificate or British naturalization certificate).
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Proof of landed immigrant status in Canada (immigration document or passport stamp).
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Evidence of residence in Canada before January 1, 1947 (or Newfoundland and Labrador before April 1, 1949).
Women married before January 1, 1947 must also provide:
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Marriage certificate and
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Details of husband’s nationality before 1947, such as birth certificates, citizenship/naturalization certificates, or immigration documents.
Scenario 3: Women Who Lost Status Through Marriage
If you married a man who was a British citizen born or naturalized in Canada before January 1, 1947 (or in Newfoundland and Labrador before April 1, 1949), you will need:
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Long-form birth certificate.
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Marriage certificate.
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Proof of husband’s nationality before 1947.
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Proof of your British subject status (if applicable).
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Evidence of landed immigrant status in Canada (immigration document or passport stamp).
How to Apply for a Discretionary Grant of Citizenship
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Determine your scenario (see above).
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Gather all required documents.
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Submit your application for proof of citizenship to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
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Wait for IRCC’s review. If you’re eligible, IRCC will confirm whether the first-generation limit applies and invite you to request a discretionary grant of citizenship.
Applicants who meet specific conditions may request urgent processing. IRCC may also ask for additional documents as needed.
Why Professional Support Matters
The Canadian citizenship application process can be complex — especially if you’re working with historical records or foreign documents. Missing or incomplete paperwork can delay your application. This is why consulting with a licensed immigration professional can save you time and stress.
How ICC Immigration Can Help You Secure Your Future in Canada
At ICC Immigration, we specialize in helping clients navigate the Canadian immigration and citizenship system. Our services include:
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Permanent Residency (PR) Applications: Whether through Express Entry, Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs), or other streams, we handle your PR application efficiently and strategically.
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Work Permits and Study Permits: We guide you through temporary pathways that can lead to PR status.
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Family Sponsorships: We help reunite families in Canada by handling sponsorship applications smoothly.
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Expert Legal Advice: We ensure your application complies with the latest Canadian immigration policies and maximize your success rate.
Instead of relying on uncertain asylum pathways, take control of your future with a clear, secure route to PR or citizenship. Whether you’re already in Canada or planning your immigration journey, ICC Immigration provides step-by-step support for your success.