For decades, Canadian citizenship by descent was limited to just one generation born abroad. If your parent was born in Canada, you were eligible—but if your connection to Canada went back to a grandparent or beyond, you were out of luck.
That’s changing.
A 2023 court ruling in Baker v. Canada declared this First Generation Limit (FGL) unconstitutional. And as of March 2025, the Canadian government is preparing legislative updates—while offering interim pathways for eligible descendants through a discretionary grant process.
Read the Official Announcement
Here’s what you need to know—and how to find out if you qualify.
Who Might Qualify for Canadian Citizenship Now?
Start by answering these four key questions:
- Do you have a Canadian ancestor?
- Was your Canadian ancestor either born in Canada or naturalized before their child was born?
- Do you have official proof of that ancestor’s status?
- Canadian birth certificate
- Naturalization or citizenship certificate
- Baptismal record
- Do you have birth, baptism, or marriage documentation for each generation between you and that ancestor?
Note: If citizenship is passed through a mother and her maiden name isn’t listed on the child’s birth certificate, you must include her marriage certificate.
If you answered yes to all four, you may qualify under Canada’s interim special grant option via Section 5(4) of the Citizenship Act.
How to Apply for Canadian Citizenship via Special Grant (Section 5(4))
Step 1: Submit a Proof of Citizenship Application
- Complete Form CIT0001
- Use the CIT0014 document checklist
- Pay the $119.75 CAD application fee
- Submit your documents
- Check the status of your CIT0001 application
Step 2: Receive a Response from IRCC
Most applicants will receive a letter stating they are not currently recognized as Canadian citizens due to the First Generation Limit, but may be eligible to apply for a Discretionary Grant of Citizenship (5(4)) due to the Bjorkquistdecision.
Step 3: Apply for a 5(4) Discretionary Grant of Citizenship
- Submit your 5(4) application per IRCC instructions
- U.S. residents must complete an FBI Identity History Summary Check
- Check your 5(4) application status
- Await background clearance and IRCC review
- If approved, you’ll attend a swearing-in ceremony