Canada document checklist

Last reviewed against the official sources below: October 31, 2026.

Based on canada.ca, How to apply. Requirements change and can depend on your case, so check the official page before you send anything.

Application for a Citizenship Certificate (CIT 0001), online or paper
Documents for every generation back to your Canadian ancestor, issued by the original authority (civil registry or vital statistics)
Your birth certificate showing your parents
Proof of your Canadian ancestor's citizenship, such as a provincial or territorial birth certificate or a citizenship/naturalization certificate
If a birth certificate is missing: alternatives such as hospital, baptismal or census records
Written explanation and proof of attempts if you can't get an official document
English or French translations with the translator's affidavit (not by family members)
Fee: $75 (Canadian) per person

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General information only. This site is not legal advice and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or connected to any government or government agency. Rules change. Always confirm with the official sources linked on each page before you apply.