Bill C-3, which came into effect Dec. 15, removes first-generation limit for citizenship Mary and Ryan Hamel show some of the documents they’ve collected to prove they are Canadians by descent.(Alexandre Silberman/Radio-Canada) Amid rising tensions in the United States, many Americans are looking to Canada — and their roots — for a possible way out.

Recent Changes to Canada’s Citizenship Act Bill C-3, which amends the Citizenship Act and took effect on December 15, 2025. Individuals who were previously excluded by the first generation rule. are now recognized as citizens, allowing them to claim citizenship by demonstrating a direct link to a Canadian ancestor. This legislation was developed in response