Citizenship for Minors: A Practical Guide to Becoming Canadian

Twelve-year-old Carlos had just settled into his new school in Toronto after moving from Belize. His parents were grateful for the opportunity to live in Canada and were ready to apply for citizenship. But they had one major question: Could Carlos also become a Canadian citizen? They wanted their entire family to take this important step together and weren’t sure how the process worked for a child. They wanted Carlos to feel as much at home in Canada as they did.

Citizenship by Birth Versus Grant of Citizenship

Understanding citizenship for minors (i.e., children undr 18) starts with knowing how Canadian citizenship works. Children born in Canada automatically gain citizenship by birth if they are born on Canadian soil, regardless of their parent’s immigration status. However, there are exceptions: children born in Canada to foreign diplomats or representatives of foreign governments do not become a citizen by birth. Additionally, children born outside Canada to at least one Canadian parent are typically become citizens by descent, but they must apply for proof of citizenship. Finally, children born abroad to non-Canadian parents must apply for citizenship through naturalization, also called a grant of citizenship. This process allows a child who has moved to Canada with his family to become a Canadian citizen, just like their parents.

Eligibility Requirements for Citizenship for Minors

Minors who apply for Canadian citizenship, must meet the following criteria:

Eligibility Requirements:

• The child must be under 18 at the time of application.
• The child must be a permanent resident of Canada with no unfulfilled residency obligations.
• At least one of the child’s parents must be Canadian citizens or simultaneously apply for citizenship.
• The child must not be subject to a removal order from Canada.
• The child must not have any criminal or security-related prohibitions.

Parents must ensure their children meet all these requirements for the successful granting of citizenship for minors.

Forms Required for Citizenship Applications

To apply for citizenship for minors, parents need to complete the following forms and provide the necessary documents:

Required Forms and Documents:

• Application for Canadian Citizenship—Minors (CIT 0003): This is the main application form for minors applying for Canadian citizenship. The parents or legal guardians must accurately complete it.
• Document Checklist (CIT 0008): This checklist helps in providing necessary documents.
• Residence Outside Canada (CIT 0177): This form is necessary if the minor has lived outside Canada. It helps verify residency information.
• Use of a Representative (IMM 5476): This form is necessary if parents wish to appoint an immigration representative to act on their behalf.
• Request to Correct a Date of Birth on a Permanent Resident Document or Citizenship Certificate (IRM 0003): This form is used to correct the date of birth on official documents.
• Request Form for a Change of Sex or Gender Identifier (IRM 0002): This form is required if the minor wishes to change their sex or gender identifier on the citizenship certificate.
• Citizenship Photo Specifications: Parents must also provide photos of the minor that meet specific requirements for citizenship applications. This ensures the photo is accepted without complications.

Parents can help the process go more smoothly and avoid unnecessary delays by preparing a complete application package with all necessary forms and documents. Most people may apply online.

The Oath of Citizenship for Minors

The Oath of Citizenship represents a major milestone in a minor’s journey towards becoming a Canadian citizen. Children under 14 do not need to attend a formal ceremony or take the Oath. However, minors aged 14 to 17 must take the Oath at a citizenship ceremony or privately. This Oath marks their commitment to Canada and affirms their new identity. Therefore, families with teenagers need to prepare them for this meaningful step.

Citizenship for Adopted Children

The path to citizenship for adopted minors involves a few unique requirements. Adopted children applying for citizenship must have at least one adoptive parent who is already a Canadian citizen or is applying for citizenship concurrently. The adoptive parent must sign the application, and if the minor is between 14 and 17 years of age, they must also sign the application themselves. Additionally, adopted minors aged 14 or older are required to take the Oath of Citizenship, either at a formal ceremony or in a private setting. This Oath signifies their commitment to Canada, much like the biological children of Canadian citizens. Furthermore, for minors under 14, the Oath is not mandatory, and citizenship is granted directly upon application approval. Canada aims to ensure that adopted children are treated equally and have access to the same opportunities as any child born in Canada, regardless of where they were born.

Book a Consultation for Citizenship for Minors

Navigating the citizenship process for minors or adults can sometimes feel overwhelming. Whether you are applying for your child, like Carlos’ parents, or for an adopted minor, having expert help makes a difference. Book a consultation today. Alternatively, fill out the following form to contact our team.