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Immigration Announcement

Canada’s Lost Canadians Bill C-71 Could Bring 115,000 New Citizens

Austin Campbell

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Bill C-71

Canada’s immigration landscape is witnessing a groundbreaking transformation with the proposed Lost Canadians bill C-71, poised to create pathways to citizenship for up to 115,000 individuals. This initiative not only reflects Canada’s inclusive values but also highlights its commitment to addressing historical gaps in citizenship laws. Here’s an in-depth look at what this means and who stands to benefit.

Who are the Lost Canadians?

The term Lost Canadians refers to individuals who were inadvertently excluded from Canadian citizenship due to outdated laws. These include:

Individuals born abroad between February 15, 1977, and April 17, 1981, to Canadian parents but who failed to retain their citizenship by age 28.

Their children, were born outside Canada.

Children of Canadians by descent born after April 17, 2009, when the first-generation limit on citizenship came into effect.

Adoptees of Canadians by descent.

This bill seeks to restore citizenship to these individuals, correcting a long-standing oversight and fostering inclusivity.

Breaking Down the Numbers: 115,000 Potential New Citizens

According to the Parliamentary Budget Officer (PBO), the bill could benefit up to 115,000 people. While this estimate is higher than previous figures, it sheds light on the vast scope of this initiative.

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However, the PBO emphasizes that the actual “take-up rate” will depend on factors such as:

  • Complexity of residency histories spanning multiple years.
  • The cost and effort required to prove citizenship.
  • Variations in population growth and awareness among eligible individuals.

By addressing these nuances, the government aims to make the process accessible for all eligible groups.

Challenges in Implementing the Bill

While the “Lost Canadians” bill is a progressive step, certain challenges remain:

Residency Complexity: Longer periods of residency and historical gaps make proving citizenship more intricate.

Cost Implications: Applying the current cost of citizenship proof to all applicants may not account for the varying complexities.

Awareness and Outreach: Educating eligible individuals about their rights will be crucial to the success of the initiative.

Despite these hurdles, the government is committed to simplifying the process and ensuring fairness.

Why This Matters for Canada

This bill is not just about numbers; it’s about reaffirming Canada’s dedication to fairness and inclusivity. Welcoming these 115,000 individuals as citizens has broader implications, including:

  • Strengthening the Social Fabric: Reuniting families and empowering communities.
  • Economic Contributions: New citizens bring diverse skills and talents, boosting Canada’s workforce.
  • Global Leadership: Setting an example for other nations to follow in addressing historical citizenship gaps.
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Looking Ahead

As Canada prepares to roll out the “Lost Canadians” bill, it’s clear that this is more than a policy change—it’s a step toward correcting the past and building a brighter future. If implemented effectively, this initiative will add 115,000 new voices to the Canadian story, enriching its multicultural identity.

The “Lost Canadians” bill is yet another reminder of Canada’s commitment to being a welcoming, inclusive nation. Stay tuned to Canada Immigration News for the latest updates on this landmark initiative and other immigration news.

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