November 15, 2021
Proof of Citizenship and Search of Citizenship Records Moving Online
On 5 November 2021, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) announced that they would be accepting online applications to request proof of citizenship and search of citizenship records.[1] Through the secure portal, applicants can:
- request a replacement citizenship certificate (proof) that does not require changes to the information on the certificate (such as name, date of birth)
- submit straightforward claims for proof of citizenship by descent, as defined under the Citizenship Act
- request a search of citizenship records for an applicant
IRCC will still accept and process paper applications and urges applicants who have already submitted a paper application, not to complete an online application for the same request.
This recent announcement is consistent with IRCC’s citizenship modernization initiative, with the goal of making the application process more efficient and user-friendly.[2]
For more information, please read about applying for a Canadian citizenship certificate or searching citizenship records.