New IRCC Measure Speeds Up Citizenship for Some Foreign Nationals

By Travis P July 22, 2024 2 min. read
Canada

In the past, Canadians born abroad could only pass on citizenship to their children born overseas for one generation. This meant that if a Canadian born abroad had a child overseas, that child would not automatically be Canadian.

However, the Canadian government is considering changing this “first-generation limit” rule to extend it to a second generation, potentially allowing more people born abroad to claim Canadian citizenship.

In anticipation of these potential changes, IRCC has introduced interim measures allowing some foreign nationals to gain citizenship more quickly. You can learn more about who this rule applies to below.

Who Do the New Measurements Apply To?

IRCC’s new measure applies to those who have applied for proof of citizenship urgently and may be affected by the first-generation limit (FGL) rule. This includes:

  1. Applicants who submitted a proof of citizenship application that would be affected by the potential FGL change and requested urgent processing or
  2. Applicants with a proof of citizenship application already in process that was impacted by the FGL rule and has now requested urgent processing.

If eligible, applicants will receive a notice from IRCC explaining that the FGL rule is still in effect and offering them the option to apply for a “discretionary grant of citizenship.”

This grant, processed by the Immigration Minister or a designated decision-maker, allows citizenship to be granted in special circumstances if the application meets the necessary criteria.

Who Is Eligible for Urgent Citizenship Processing?

IRCC offers urgent processing for citizenship certificate applications in three specific situations:

While IRCC cannot guarantee timely delivery, if you meet one of these criteria, you may be eligible for urgent processing of your citizenship certificate application.

Applying for Canada Urgent Citizenship Processing: What to Include

If you qualify for urgent processing of your citizenship certificate, you can apply either online or by mail. However, avoid submitting duplicate applications, as this will not speed up processing. If you submit both a paper and online application, only the paper application will be processed.

To expedite processing, include the following with your citizenship certificate application:

  1. Explanation letter: Clearly outlining why you need urgent processing and which of the three eligibility criteria you meet.
  2. Supporting documents: These documents should prove your need for urgent processing. Examples include:

Do You Need to Apply to Expedite Your Canadian Citizenship Application?

If you find yourself interested in the Student Direct Stream, contact VisaPlace today. All of our cases are handled by competent and experienced immigration professionals who are affiliated with VisaPlace. These professionals consist of lawyers, licensed paralegals, and consultants who work for Niren and Associates an award-winning immigration firm that adheres to the highest standards of client service.

Ready for the next step? Book your 1 on 1 consultation now or call us at (855) 305-7269.

Have a Question related to your Immigration Needs?

Fill out the FREE Immigration Assessment form and get a response within 24 hours to see if you’re eligible.

The assessment form should take approximately 5-7 minutes to complete. We will get back to you within one business day to let you know if we are able to help.

Wasi Mesbahuddin Avatar

Wasi Mesbahuddin

Second time working with Visaplace, and was successful again with a visa application for parents (2 out of 2). Worked with Felicita and Mansi, strong guidance, very detailed approach to putting together a very thorough and comprehensive application. Good feedback and support throughout the full process. Highly recommend Visaplace!

Maria Accounting Avatar

Maria Accounting

We are incredibly grateful to Attorney Felicita and her outstanding team for their exceptional legal support. Thanks to their expertise, professionalism, and efficiency, we were able to secure two work visas and a visitor visa for our family members — all within a remarkably short period of time.

Attorney Felicita’s leadership, attention to detail, and deep knowledge of immigration law made the entire process smooth and stress-free. The team was responsive, thorough, and truly committed to achieving the best outcome for us.

We highly recommend Attorney Felicita and her team to anyone in need of skilled and reliable legal representation. Their dedication and results speak for themselves.

Thank you 🙏

Maria El khazen

Manale Avatar

Manale

Felicita and her team are amazing. They’re so professional. It’s not the first time that i refer to them to submit my applications and never fail to achieve satisfying results

Ljiljana Pavkov Avatar

Ljiljana Pavkov

I have nothing but praise! The entire team was extremely professional, knowledgeable, and kind, especially Mansi Sanghiv. She patiently explained everything I needed to know and resolved all of my concerns. I felt safe and well taken care of throughout the entire process. I am extremely satisfied with the service and experience, and I wholeheartedly recommend them to anyone looking for quality, dedication, and trust.

Lisanne Cholette Avatar

Lisanne Cholette

Mansi has been helping me navigate through a new chapter in my life. It has been a huge comfort to be able to lean on her knowledge and expertise and I would highly recommend her to anyone!

BERLITA COLLADO Avatar

BERLITA COLLADO

I am so very thankful to the VISAPACE team for making it all come true and possible from my Open Work Permit to my Permanent Residence, you make it all happen .Thank you very much from the bottom of my heart , Thank you for being part of my achievements. Now I am now a Permanent Residence through the effort, power and knowledge of VISAPLACE LEGAL TEAM.
Sending you my best appreciation and thank you.

Berlie Collado

Shahrzad Sh Avatar

Shahrzad Sh

“I truly want to thank Mansi. Her patience and thoughtful advices made a big difference for me. Her recommendations were not only helpful but also gave me clearer insight. Words can’t fully express how grateful I am for her support.”