Overview
- Canada’s Bill C-3, which took effect in December 2025, recognizes people born before December 15th as citizens if they can prove a Canadian ancestor.
- Immigration lawyers on both sides of the border report being flooded with consultations as Americans trace grandparents and great-grandparents to file proof-of-citizenship claims.
- Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada lists about 10-month waits with more than 56,000 cases pending, and it confirmed 1,480 approvals between December 15th and January 31st.
- Applicants cite politics under President Trump, family ties, job prospects and a desire for security as reasons to seek dual status, with some preparing for moves and job searches in Canada.
- Canadian experts warn about “Canadians of convenience” with thin ties and worry about slower processing for refugees, even as 24,500 Americans gained dual citizenship last year.