IRCC updates document checklist for the Canadian citizenship certificate | ImmigraCan

On June 19, 2026, IRCC released an updated version of the official document checklist for citizenship certificate applications. The change may seem small, but it could affect tens of thousands of people who are about to apply — and sending the wrong version of the list is one of the most common reasons applications get returned.

What the citizenship certificate is

Don't confuse this with the naturalization process. The citizenship certificate (also called proof of citizenship) is the document that proves someone is already a Canadian citizen — for example, a child born outside Canada who is entitled to citizenship by descent from a Canadian parent. It's different from "becoming" a citizen; this is about proving a citizenship that already exists.

For many Brazilian families with a Canadian connection, this is exactly the document needed to formalize a child's status, apply for a Canadian passport, or prove status.

Why the checklist matters so much

The checklist is the roadmap of what needs to accompany the form. When IRCC changes this list, old forms and requirements may no longer be accepted. Using an outdated version — downloaded months ago or copied from a blog — is a quick way for your application to come back incomplete, which costs weeks or months of delay.

The practical recommendation is simple and applies to any Canadian immigration application: always download the checklist and official forms directly from the official canada.ca website on the day you assemble your package, and check the document's revision date.

Best practices when putting together your application

• Use only the most recent version of the checklist and official forms;
• Check that every required document is complete and legible;
• Combine files when the system asks for a single attachment per field;
• Keep a copy of everything you submit.

If citizenship by descent is part of your family's plan, it's worth understanding how it fits into the bigger picture of your move. Take the eligibility quiz to map out the routes that fit your situation.

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*This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute official disclosure advice. ImmigraCan is not affiliated with the Government of Canada or IRCC. Always confirm official data at canada.ca and, for your specific case, consult a Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant (RCIC) or lawyer.*