Canada has introduced stricter scrutiny for some citizenship-by-descent applications, including reviews of previously approved cases and requests for additional documentation to confirm eligibility.
As per details, Canada’s citizenship department recently contacted several individuals who had already received Canadian citizenship certificates, informing them that their citizenship claims were now under review.
The review process is being conducted under subsection 26(1) of the Citizenship Regulations, which allows officials to request the return of a citizenship certificate if there are concerns about an individual’s entitlement to citizenship.
The immigration department said some applications were flagged because supporting documents were not obtained directly from official source authorities such as civil registries, vital statistics offices or provincial archives. Others lacked sufficient evidence showing attempts to obtain unavailable records.
Immigration officials stressed that the reviews do not automatically mean applicants will lose their citizenship. Those affected can submit additional documents and explanations to support their claims. If eligibility is confirmed, citizenship certificates will be returned.
They said many flagged cases involve applicants who relied on genealogy websites, unofficial records or incomplete documentation to prove their family connection to a Canadian citizen.
Applicants are being advised to obtain certified records directly from official authorities and provide detailed explanations when documents are unavailable. Immigration specialists also recommend including “no record” letters and alternative evidence where official records cannot be found.
Canadian authorities said that citizenship by descent remains available under the expanded law, but applicants must provide clear and complete proof of their lineage to meet eligibility requirements.
Individuals who receive review notices are encouraged to keep copies of all documents submitted and may consider seeking legal assistance to help address any concerns raised by immigration officials.
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