Canada’s proof of citizenship processing time has come under renewed attention after Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) finalized only 3,040 applications in June 2026. The latest figures suggest that Canadian citizenship certificate applications are facing increasing pressure as demand continues to rise.

According to recently updated federal data, IRCC finalized 31,980 proof of citizenship applications between January 1 and June 30, 2026. At the end of May, the department had reported 28,940 finalized applications, meaning approximately 3,040 were completed in June.

This represents a significant slowdown compared with the average monthly pace recorded earlier in the year.

Canadian Citizenship Certificate Backlog Continues to Grow

The number of proof of Canadian citizenship applications waiting for a decision increased sharply during June.

As of May 31, approximately 82,020 applications were awaiting finalization. By June 30, that figure had risen to 99,520 — an increase of 17,500 applications in just one month.

The situation has continued into August. Current estimates indicate that roughly 121,800 applicants are waiting for a decision on their Canadian citizenship certificate applications.

For applicants who need proof of citizenship before obtaining a Canadian passport, these delays can create additional uncertainty when planning travel, work, education or other long-term arrangements.

Why Did Citizenship Certificate Processing Slow Down?

One important factor appears to have been an IRCC review involving recently issued citizenship certificates.

In June, IRCC temporarily paused the finalization of some new citizenship-by-descent applications while reviewing documentation connected to approximately 6,500 certificates that had already been issued.

The review was completed on June 30. IRCC identified 100 certificates where documentation potentially required further examination, while 33 certificates were subsequently reinstated after the department confirmed that the supporting evidence was sufficient.

This temporary review, combined with already rising application volumes, likely contributed to the lower number of citizenship certificate applications finalized in June.

Bill C-3 Is Increasing Demand for Proof of Citizenship

Another major factor behind the growing workload is the change to Canada’s citizenship-by-descent rules.

Bill C-3 came into effect on December 15, 2025, changing the previous first-generation limitation on citizenship by descent for people born before that date.

As a result, some individuals with Canadian parents, grandparents, great-grandparents or more distant Canadian ancestry may now have a pathway to establish Canadian citizenship, depending on their circumstances.

This has generated significant interest internationally, particularly among people in the United States with historical Canadian family connections.

For people who are already Canadian citizens but need official documentation confirming that status, a proof of citizenship certificate is essential. It can also be required when applying for a Canadian passport.

Proof of Citizenship Is Different From a Citizenship Grant

It is important not to confuse a proof of citizenship application with a citizenship grant.

A proof of citizenship application is generally used by someone who is already a Canadian citizen but needs official confirmation of that citizenship.

A Canadian citizenship grant, on the other hand, is generally the process through which an eligible permanent resident applies to become a Canadian citizen.

The latest figures show that IRCC finalized approximately 162,020 citizenship grant applications between January 1 and June 30, considerably more than the number of proof of citizenship applications finalized during the same period. However, about 326,190 citizenship grant applications were still awaiting a decision at the end of June.

Should You Apply for a Canadian Citizenship Certificate Now?

If you believe you are already a Canadian citizen through birth or descent, delaying an application may not necessarily make the process faster. With the citizenship certificate backlog continuing to grow, joining the queue earlier can be important.

Applicants should carefully establish their eligibility and provide complete supporting documentation, particularly when claiming citizenship through a parent, grandparent or more distant Canadian ancestor.

Because citizenship-by-descent cases can involve complicated family histories and documentary evidence, professional guidance can help applicants understand which documents they need and avoid preventable delays.

How ICC Immigration Can Help You Plan Your Future in Canada

At ICC Immigration, our goal is to help individuals and families identify immigration options that provide greater stability and a realistic long-term plan for Canada.

Our experienced team can assess your circumstances and help you explore appropriate pathways, including:

• Permanent Residency Applications: Assistance with Express Entry, Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) and other Canadian PR pathways.
• Work Permits and Study Permits: Guidance for people who want to study or work in Canada and potentially build toward Permanent Residency in Canada.
• Family Sponsorship: Support for eligible families seeking to reunite in Canada through applicable sponsorship programs.
• Professional Immigration Guidance: Help understanding changing Canadian immigration requirements and preparing applications accurately and strategically.

Rather than relying on uncertain immigration options, applicants can explore legitimate pathways designed around their individual circumstances and long-term goals.

Whether you are already in Canada or planning your Canadian immigration journey, ICC Immigration can help you understand your options and move forward with greater confidence.

Final Thoughts

The June figures highlight the growing pressure on Canada’s proof of citizenship processing system. With the backlog rising from 82,020 applications at the end of May to 99,520 by the end of June, applicants should expect that processing may take considerable time.

If you believe you may already be a Canadian citizen through descent, understanding your eligibility and preparing the correct documentation can be an important first step toward obtaining your Canadian citizenship certificate and, where eligible, a Canadian passport.