Overview
- IRCC sent letters on June 13 asking some people who recently received proof-of-citizenship certificates under the expanded descent rules to return their paper certificates while files are reviewed.
- The reviews were opened because officials found applicants used documents not issued by original source authorities or failed to show they tried to obtain official vital records.
- How many people are affected is unclear because the government has not released totals, though thousands applied after the law changed and thousands have already been granted certificates.
- Recipients report sudden uncertainty after making life plans such as moving to Canada or getting passports, and lawyers say it is unusual for issued certificates to be pulled back for post‑issue checks.
- IRCC says people may submit more evidence during the review and certificates will be returned if eligibility is confirmed; the reviews follow Bill C-3’s removal of the first‑generation limit on descent-based citizenship.