Citizenship
Proof of Canadian Citizenship
If you are already a Canadian citizen, a citizenship certificate is the official document that proves it. We help you apply for one, with every document organized and explained.
Overview
A citizenship certificate is a document from IRCC that confirms you are a Canadian citizen. It does not make you a citizen. It proves a status you already have.
Many people born outside Canada to a Canadian parent are citizens by law but have never received proof. Others may be citizens through a grandparent or an earlier ancestor, since the law changed in December 2025. In both cases, the way to prove it is a proof of citizenship application.
You usually need a citizenship certificate before you can apply for a Canadian passport. The same application is used to replace a certificate that was lost or damaged.
Official information: IRCC, proof of citizenship.
Who this may be for
- People born outside Canada to a Canadian citizen parent
- People who may be citizens through a Canadian-born grandparent or earlier ancestor
- Families applying for several members at once: parents, children and grandchildren
- People who need to replace a lost, damaged or old citizenship certificate
- People whose earlier application was returned by IRCC as incomplete
General eligibility considerations
You must already be a citizen
A proof application only works if you are already a Canadian citizen under the law. If you are not, a different application may be the right one.
How you became a citizen
Born in Canada, born abroad to a Canadian parent, or granted citizenship. Each one is proven with different records.
Your family line
If your claim comes through a parent or ancestor, you must show every link between you and the person who was born in Canada or became a citizen.
Dates matter
Canada's citizenship law has changed many times since 1947. When you and your parents were born can change which rules apply.
Names and records
Names spelled differently from one record to another need to be explained, so the officer can see it is the same person.
How the process works
Consultation and assessment
We review your family history and tell you whether a proof application looks right for you.
Your document list
If you hire us, you receive a clear list of the documents each person needs.
Gathering records
You collect the records. We review each one as it arrives and tell you right away if something is missing or unclear.
Preparing the application
We complete the forms, organize each applicant's documents separately, and write a cover letter that lists everything included.
Submission
We submit the application to IRCC as your authorized representative.
Follow-up
We track the file, answer IRCC requests, and keep you informed until a decision is made.
Documents you may need
- Your long-form birth certificate (the version that lists your parents)
- Long-form birth records for each person in your family line, back to the Canadian ancestor
- Proof that the ancestor was born in Canada or became a citizen
- Marriage records, where they connect generations or explain a name change
- Records of any legal name change
- Government-issued identification
- Citizenship photos that meet IRCC's specifications
- Translations of documents not in English or French, prepared as IRCC requires
- Proof that the government fee was paid
The exact list depends on your situation, and IRCC can ask for more. IRCC expects official records. Family trees and genealogy websites can help with research but are not usually enough on their own.
How Bonti can help
- An RCIC-led assessment of whether you are likely already a citizen, and how to prove it
- A document list written for your family, person by person
- Review of every record for names, dates and missing links before anything is sent
- Complete preparation of the forms and a detailed cover letter
- Representation with IRCC, including replies to requests for more information
- Help with an urgent processing request where you may qualify
Common questions
Do I have to take a citizenship test?
No. A proof of citizenship application does not include a citizenship test or a language test. It is about evidence: the records that show you are a citizen.
How long does it take?
IRCC sets the processing time, and it has been long in 2026. You can check the current estimate on IRCC's processing times page. In limited situations, IRCC may process an application urgently. We can tell you whether you may qualify.
Can my whole family apply together?
Yes. Parents, children and grandparents often apply at the same time. Each person needs their own application. We organize the package so IRCC can see how the applications connect.
Is a citizenship certificate the same as a passport?
No. A certificate proves that you are a citizen. A passport is a travel document. If you were born outside Canada, you usually need the certificate first.
What if my documents show different spellings of a name?
This is common, especially with older records and records from different countries. We help you explain the differences clearly and include supporting records where possible.
Next step
Ready to prove your citizenship?
Start with a 30-minute consultation. You will leave with a clear next step and a list of documents to prepare.
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