#173 - Bill C-3 - Expanding Canadian Citizenship by Descent

In this episode, we dive deep into the complex world of Canadian citizenship by descent with returning guests Amandeep Hayer and Lisa Middlemiss, authors of the definitive book on the subject. [0:24] Introduction: Welcome to the podcast and introduction of guests Amandeep Hayer and Lisa Middlemiss. [1:35] What is citizenship by descent? [3:17] Limitations of citizenship by descent: The historical and current rules, including the first-generation limit and exceptions. [5:55] The Bjorkquist decision (2023): The pivotal Ontario Superior Court case that struck down parts of the citizenship law as unconstitutional. [9:49] Bill C-3 and legislative changes: The hosts and guests explore the proposed amendments to Canada’s citizenship by descent laws, including the 1,095-day residency requirement. [13:57] Interim measures in 2024-2025: Amandeep describes the "free-for-all" period for discretionary citizenship grants post-Bjorkquist. [20:26] Bill C-3 details and controversies: Discussion on the new residency requirements and comparisons to U.S. citizenship laws. [31:00] Policy concerns: Exploring public concerns about citizens abroad, voting rights, and potential citizenship fraud. [44:02] Using alternative records to prove citizenship without birth certificates, addressing tools like Ancestry.com. [45:43] Indigenous citizenship cases. Addressing a listener question about displaced Native Americans and citizenship under new laws. 📢 Have questions? Drop them in the comments or reach out to our guests for expert advice on Canadian immigration and citizenship. #CanadianImmigration #CitizenshipByDescent #BorderLinesPodcast #BillC3 #LostCanadians