American demand for Canadian citizenship surges; processing delays mount
Applications for Canadian citizenship certificates have exploded following a change in law allowing citizenship by descent, with thousands from the U.S. driving backlogs exceeding 121,800 applications.
The surge
Applications from people around the world seeking Canadian citizenship certificates have been rising rapidly, fuelled by thousands from the United States. The backlog now tops more than 121,800 applications. Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada says those who apply today could have to wait more than two years for a decision.
Bill C-3 allows citizenship for those who can prove they're descended from a Canadian ancestor, even if that ancestor left the country several generations back. It was adopted after the courts ruled that limiting citizenship to the first generation born outside of Canada was too restrictive.
Why the spike?
With Americans already accounting for nearly half of approvals issued under the expanded citizenship-by-descent rules, immigration experts expect demand for Canadian citizenship certificates to remain elevated throughout 2026 and beyond. The figures offer one of the clearest signs yet of growing American interest in dual citizenship, second passports and overseas "Plan B" options amid political polarization and economic uncertainty.
If you have Canadian ancestry through a parent, grandparent, or even earlier generations born in Canada, you may now be eligible to apply. However, expect significant processing delays—those applying now should prepare for wait times measured in years, not months. Archival searches to prove lineage can also take months, so plan ahead if you're considering this path to residency or citizenship.
Sources
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