Proof of Citizenship

Confirm your Canadian status quickly and with confidence

A Proof of Citizenship certificate, also known as a citizenship certificate, is an official document that confirms your status as a Canadian citizen. It is often used to obtain a Canadian passport, access government services, or serve as official proof of your citizenship.

A Proof of Citizenship certificate, also known as a citizenship certificate, is an official document that confirms your status as a Canadian citizen. It is often used to obtain a Canadian passport, access government services, or serve as official proof of your citizenship.

 

Who needs a Proof of Citizenship certificate?

If you need to replace a lost, stolen, or destroyed citizenship certificate — or if you never received one — you must apply for a Proof of Citizenship. This official certificate is essential to confirm your Canadian status for travel, employment, benefits, and other legal matters.

 
You need an official document to prove your status.

This is especially common for those born in Canada who need proof beyond a provincial birth certificate, or for individuals born outside Canada to a Canadian parent.

You have lost, stolen, or destroyed your original certificate.

This process is for replacement or to obtain a new one.

You were granted citizenship and did not receive a certificate.

If you became a citizen by naturalization and have not yet received your certificate, you will need to apply for one.

General Requirements

  • You were born outside Canada and at least one of your biological or legal parents was a Canadian citizen at the time of your birth (by birth or by naturalization), or


  • You were adopted outside Canada by a Canadian citizen and obtained citizenship through the adoption process, or


  • You need official proof of your existing Canadian citizenship (for example, if you were born in Canada but require a certificate for administrative purposes).

Important Considerations

  • Citizenship by descent generally applies only to the first generation born outside Canada. If your Canadian parent was also born abroad, you may not be eligible.

  • Permanent residents of Canada who have not yet applied for naturalization should not apply.


  • Children or grandchildren born abroad to Canadian citizens beyond the first generation should not apply.


  • Spouses or partners of Canadian citizens should not apply.
    Your path is likely through Spousal Sponsorship, not Proof of Citizenship.


  • Individuals with only temporary status in Canada (workers, students, visitors).

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Start your immigration journey with confidence

Whether you're ready to start on your own—or want advice every step of the way—we've got your back.
Start with a $49.99 one-on-one consultation.

Express
Consultation

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30 minutes with an expert

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In-depth analysis, eligibility assessment & tailored strategy

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Get the help you need to succeed.

Eligibility Assessment

We assess your unique situation to determine if you are a Canadian citizen and the correct application pathway.

Document Compilation

We provide a detailed checklist and assist in gathering all necessary forms and compelling evidence of your citizenship.

Application Strategy

Our consultants help you prepare a strong application package that addresses all potential concerns of an immigration officer.

Timely Submission

We guide you through the submission process, ensuring your application is filed correctly and on time to avoid unnecessary delays.

Parliament Hill and Canadian flag representing Canadian citizenship and identity

Types of Citizenship Applications

Application for a Citizenship Certificate (for adults and minors)

This is the most common application for individuals who are already citizens but need to replace a lost document or obtain their first certificate.

Application to Renounce Citizenship

For individuals who wish to voluntarily give up their Canadian citizenship. This is a very specific and serious process.

Application to Resume Citizenship

For former Canadians who wish to resume their citizenship after previously renouncing it.

Spouses of Canadian citizens

Being married to, or in a relationship with, a Canadian citizen does not automatically grant you Canadian citizenship or eligibility for a Citizenship Certificate.


If you are the spouse or partner of a Canadian and wish to immigrate, your pathway may be through Spousal Sponsorship.

Check your eligibility to sponsor your spouse

Learn more about the spousal sponsorship process and how we can help you reunite with your loved one.

group of people raising flags and hands for Canadian Oath of Citizenship ceremony

Citizenship for Adults

If you are a permanent resident aged 18 or older and are seeking to become a Canadian citizen, the process and requirements are different. Find out about the eligibility criteria, the physical presence requirement, and the citizenship test for adult applicants.

Frequently Asked Questions

Processing varies but often takes 6–12 months, depending on complexity.

Yes, certificates do not expire, but damaged or outdated ones may require replacement.

No. You must use a Canadian passport for international travel.

Yes if documentation is unclear, inconsistent, or cannot establish lineage.

Birth certificates, parents’ citizenship documents, passports, and long-form registration records.

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CanadianVisas.com is operated by Can-Am Immigration Inc., a Canadian immigration consulting firm. We provide access to Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultants (RCICs) licensed by the College of Immigration and Citizenship Consultants (CICC), as well as full representation services and self-guided immigration tools. CanadianVisas.com is not a law firm and does not provide legal advice, except as authorized under the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act and the Citizenship Act of Canada.