Canadian Citizenship Through Adoption
Canadian Citizenship Through Adoption: Eligibility and Required Documents
Adopting a child from abroad or within Canada is a profound and life-changing event for families. For those seeking Canadian citizenship for their adopted child, the process is detailed but highly accessible through Canada’s citizenship pathways. At Doherty Fultz Immigration, we guide families through the requirements to ensure a smooth transition for your new family member.
In order for an international adoption to be recognized in Canada, it must meet certain criteria:
Conformity to Canadian Laws
The adoption must comply with the adoption laws of the child’s country of origin and the Canadian province or territory where the adoptive parents reside. Canadian laws concerning international adoption prioritize the best interests of the child and ensure that the process is ethical, transparent, and free from exploitation.
Hague Convention on Adoption
If the child’s country of origin is a signatory to the Hague Convention on Protection of Children and Co-operation in Respect of Intercountry Adoption, the adoption must follow the standards and procedures established by the convention. Canada is a signatory, and IRCC adheres strictly to these guidelines to protect children’s rights and prevent illegal adoptions.
Key Considerations:
- Provincial/Territorial Adoption Authorities: In most cases, adoption agencies and provincial authorities play a key role in facilitating international adoptions and ensuring compliance with Canadian adoption laws.
Eligibility for Canadian Citizenship Through Adoption
To be eligible for Canadian citizenship through adoption, the adopted person must:
- not be a Canadian citizen,
- have at least one (1) adoptive parent who, at the time of their adoption, was or is a Canadian citizen, or for adoptions that took place prior to January 1, 1947, the person had to have at least one adoptive parent who became a Canadian citizen on January 1, 1947 (or April 1, 1949, in the case of Newfoundland and Labrador for adoptions that took place prior to April 1, 1949),
- not be subject to the first generation limit to citizenship by descent (unless eligible to benefit from one of the exceptions to the first generation limit), and
- meet the requirements of the Citizenship Act.
PLEASE NOTE: Points 3 and 4 are subject to revision pending the upcoming changes to the Citizenship Act, which will allow for double descent once enacted.
Required Documents for Canadian Citizenship Through Adoption
To successfully apply for Canadian citizenship for your adopted child, several key documents are required. These documents help establish the child’s identity, adoption status, and eligibility for citizenship.
- Proof of Canadian Citizenship of the Parent: The adoptive parent must provide proof of Canadian citizenship. This could be a Canadian passport or citizenship certificate.
- Adoption Order or Certificate: A certified copy of the adoption order or adoption certificate is crucial. This document must confirm the legal adoption of the child under local laws.
- Birth Certificate: If available, the child’s birth certificate will be required. This will be the certificate issued at the time of birth and the birth certificate issued or annotated at the point of adoption.
- Proof of Legal Custody: If applicable, documents showing that the adoptive parents had legal custody of the child before the adoption may be necessary.
- Photos of the Adopted Child: Passport-sized photos that meet Canadian immigration standards will be required for the citizenship application.
- Proof of Home Study: A home study is a critical step in the adoption process, designed to assess the suitability of prospective adoptive parents and their home environment. It’s essentially an in-depth evaluation that helps ensure the child will be placed in a safe, loving, and stable home. All adoption processes should have the final assessment issued for the Home study of the child.
- Certified colour copies of government issued ID’s for the parent of the adopted child.
- Certified colour copy of the passport of the adopted child.
- Proof of relationship: These can be photos of the adopted child with the parents; health records of the adopted child; school reports etc
Processing Time and Fees
The application process for Canadian citizenship through adoption can take up to 3 years, depending on the complexity of the case and the completeness of the documentation submitted.
Processing fees |
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| Professional Fees | CAD$2,000 to $3,000 |
| Government Fees | CAD$630 (Over 18 yrs) CAD$100 (Under 18 yrs) |
| Courier Fees | CAD $150 |
How Doherty Fultz Immigration Can Help
At Doherty Fultz Immigration, we specialize in helping families navigate the complexities of Canadian citizenship through adoption. Our experienced team will guide you through each step of the process, from determining eligibility to preparing and submitting all necessary documents.
We understand that adoption is not just a legal process but a deeply personal journey. Let us help ensure that your adopted child can enjoy all the rights and privileges of Canadian citizenship, including access to healthcare, education, and a bright future.
To book a consultation to find out eligibility please click below.
