In an era of global mobility and geopolitical uncertainty, dual citizenship with Canada has become increasingly desirable. Holding citizenship in more than one country offers greater travel freedom, social benefits, and long-term security for families. Fortunately, Canadian law permits dual citizenship, meaning you do not have to renounce your original nationality—provided your home country also allows it.
There are two primary pathways to obtain dual citizenship with Canada: citizenship by descent and citizenship through naturalization. Understanding these routes can help you determine the best strategy for securing your future in Canada.
1. Canadian Citizenship by Descent
One of the most direct ways to become a dual citizen is through Canadian citizenship by descent. If you have at least one Canadian ancestor, you may already be eligible.
Who Qualifies?
You may qualify if:
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You were born outside Canada to a Canadian parent
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Your parent never held a Canadian passport but was a citizen
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You were adopted by a Canadian citizen
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Your lineage traces back to a Canadian grandparent or earlier ancestor (depending on legislative eligibility)
Recent updates to citizenship legislation have expanded eligibility, allowing citizenship to pass through multiple generations in certain cases. This means individuals with Canadian grandparents—or even earlier ancestors—may now qualify.
How to Apply
Instead of applying for citizenship directly, eligible applicants request Proof of Canadian Citizenship. This involves submitting:
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Birth certificates and lineage documents
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Adoption records (if applicable)
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Proof of your ancestor’s Canadian citizenship
If approved, you will receive a citizenship certificate, officially confirming your status. At that point, you automatically hold dual citizenship with Canada if your other nationality permits it.
2. Canadian Citizenship Through Naturalization
For those without Canadian ancestry, the most common pathway is citizenship through naturalization.
Step 1: Become a Permanent Resident
You must first secure Canadian Permanent Residency (PR). This can be achieved through several immigration pathways, including:
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Express Entry
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Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs)
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Family Sponsorship
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Quebec immigration programs (if settling in Quebec)
Step 2: Meet Physical Presence Requirements
To qualify for citizenship, you must live in Canada for at least three years (1,095 days) within the last five years as a permanent resident.
Step 3: Fulfill Citizenship Requirements
Applicants must also:
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Demonstrate English or French language proficiency
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Pass a Canadian citizenship test on history, values, and governance
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Attend a citizenship ceremony and take the Oath of Citizenship
Once naturalized, you become a Canadian citizen. If your original country allows dual nationality, you will officially hold dual citizenship with Canada.
When Is Dual Citizenship Allowed?
Canada fully permits dual citizenship. However, eligibility depends on whether your other country also recognizes it. Many nations—including the United States, the United Kingdom, India (via OCI status), Australia, and several European countries—allow some form of dual or multiple nationality.
Before applying, always verify your home country’s dual citizenship regulations to avoid unintended loss of nationality.
From Citizenship to a Canadian Passport
Becoming a citizen does not automatically grant you a passport. You must submit a separate Canadian passport application with:
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Proof of citizenship
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Valid ID
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References and guarantor
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Passport photos
You may apply for either a 5-year or 10-year Canadian passport, gaining visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to numerous countries worldwide.
How ICC Immigration Can Help You Secure Your Future in Canada
Navigating the journey toward Canadian dual citizenship often begins with immigration planning. This is where expert guidance becomes essential.
ICC Immigration is dedicated to helping individuals and families identify the most reliable pathways to long-term success in Canada. Our experienced professionals assess your background and recommend immigration strategies that align with your goals—while helping you avoid uncertain or high-risk options.
Our Key Services
1. Permanent Residency Applications
We manage PR applications through Express Entry, Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs), and other economic pathways, ensuring accuracy, compliance, and efficiency.
2. Work Permits and Study Permits
Temporary residence can be a stepping stone to PR. We assist with work permits and study permits, helping you build Canadian experience that strengthens your immigration profile.
3. Family Sponsorships
If you have relatives in Canada, our team helps reunite families through spousal sponsorship, parent sponsorship, and dependent child programs.
4. Expert Legal Advice
Canadian immigration policies can be complex and ever-changing. Our legal experts provide strategic guidance to maximize approval chances and maintain regulatory compliance.
Rather than relying on uncertain immigration routes, choosing structured programs offers stability, security, and a clear pathway to Permanent Residency in Canada—and ultimately, citizenship.
Whether you are already in Canada or planning your move, ICC Immigration supports you at every stage with transparent, professional assistance.
Final Thoughts
Securing dual citizenship with Canada is a powerful investment in your future. Whether you qualify through citizenship by descent or pursue the naturalization pathway, the benefits include global mobility, economic opportunity, and social security in one of the world’s most stable nations.
If you are unsure which route applies to you, professional assessment can make the process faster and more reliable. With the right strategy, your journey from immigrant—or descendant—to Canadian citizen can be smooth and successful.