Canadian citizenship proof is crucial for several reasons, one being the convenience it provides to people residing in the country. The citizenship certificate will help people significantly if they look forward to obtaining the right to vote in federal elections, a Social Insurance Number, and an employment offer. This certificate from IRCC demonstrates that you hold Canadian citizenship.
Canada’s citizenship proof- two key points
Firstly, one must remember that Canadian citizenship proof is not a travel document. Secondly, Passport Canada accepts an individual’s birth certificate as proof of Canadian citizenship.
Requirement of a citizenship proof
A Canadian citizen seeking proof of citizenship has the right to obtain it. However, only the following people need to keep this proof:
- Naturalized Canadians must present this proof.
- Those people born outside Canada with a minimum of one parent in Canada.
Naturalized Canadian Citizens
Those who already applied for Canadian citizenship passed the citizenship test and took a pledge are known as ‘naturalized citizenships.’ Obtaining the certificate for the same will enable people to experience all citizenship benefits. Individuals will only receive this certificate once they complete their naturalization process. Canadian citizens born in this country can also present their birth certificates to prove their citizenship.
Canadian citizens born outside the country
These people need to provide proof of their citizenship so they can also enjoy the available opportunities and advantages, similar to natural-born citizens. The benefits include additional facilities such as access to a universal healthcare system and a driver’s license in Canada.
Eligibility criteria to get the certificate proof
Individuals born anywhere except Canada with at least one Canadian citizen parent before birth can obtain citizenship proof.
You must consider the following points about the citizenship certificate:
- Canadian citizenship by descent– This applies only to the first generation of the Canadian parent, to those born outside Canada. A grandchild will not be eligible for Canadian citizenship.
- Irrespective of whether your parent is alive, being born to a Canadian parent makes you eligible for citizenship proof.
The application process for a citizenship proof
Apply the following steps if you wish to obtain a citizenship certificate:
- IRCCs website displays an application package, which you must download to demonstrate that one of your parents held Canadian citizenship.
- Ensure to make the application fee payment and complete the online submission of the application on IRCCs official website.
- Wait patiently for the “Acknowledgement of Receipt” when IRCC gets your application.
- Your application will take time to be reviewed and processed. Depending upon individual circumstances, IRCC might take longer to process the application. The department might also ask you to submit additional documents.
- There are specific cases where you can request urgent processing. However, such emergencies include your need to access a healthcare facility, receive a SIN, begin a job, or travel due to an emergency.
