Millions of Americans may qualify for dual Canadian citizenship under a recent change to Canada’s requirements that has led to a surge in applications, multiple news outlets report.
This new law grants citizenship to anyone who can prove a direct Canadian ancestor, whether a grandparent, great-grandparent, or even more distant relative.
Previously, Canadian citizenship by descent could only pass down one generation — from a parent to a child.
Canada’s Bill C-3, became law on Dec. 15, erasing decades of restrictive citizenship rules.
In January 2026, nearly 2,500 Americans filed applications — 10 times the number submitted by citizens of the United Kingdom, the second-highest country on the list.
Many Americans are seeking dual citizenship due to job opportunities, politics, and family heritage.
• Juliet La Sala can be reached at jlasala@washingtontimes.com.
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