Citizenship for Minors Born Outside Canada

Children born outside of Canada may still be eligible for Canadian citizenship under specific conditions. The Minors Born Outside Canada pathway typically applies when at least one parent is a Canadian citizen, whether by birth in Canada or through naturalization before the child’s birth. This process is designed to recognize children who have a legitimate claim to Canadian citizenship but lack formal documentation.

If your child was born abroad and you were a Canadian citizen at the time of their birth, they may already be a Canadian citizen by descent. In such cases, the next step is applying for a Proof of Citizenship Certificate, which serves as the legal document confirming their Canadian status. This process is straightforward for first-generation children born outside Canada, but it does not automatically extend to second-generation children born abroad.

It’s important to differentiate between applying for citizenship by descent and naturalizing a child who is not automatically eligible. If your child does not qualify for citizenship by descent, you may need to pursue an immigration process first and then apply for citizenship through naturalization. For that reason, reviewing the full criteria on the Citizenship Application page is essential.

Also, be sure to review our guide on Citizenship by Descent to determine whether your child’s situation falls under that category. This distinction can save you time and help avoid misfiled applications.

For minors under 18 years of age, citizenship applications must include a parent or legal guardian’s signature, as well as evidence that the minor is already a permanent resident of Canada or entitled to citizenship through lineage. Documentation such as a birth certificate naming the Canadian parent, passport pages, or legal guardianship records may be required.

At RightWay Canada, we simplify the process of confirming or applying for citizenship for minors born abroad. Whether you’re seeking recognition through descent or filing a new application, our experienced consultants ensure that all supporting documents meet government requirements. Book a consultation today and take the first step toward securing your child’s Canadian citizenship with clarity and peace of mind.