ɫ

What are the benefits of Canadian citizenship?

Michael Schwartz
Published: June 28, 2021

More than 80 per cent of Canadian permanent residents apply for citizenship when they become eligible. So, what are the factors that make Canadian citizenship so desirable?

Every person’s situation will vary. There are external factors to consider, such as other countries’ laws about dual citizenship and taxes. But, there are several important reasons why so many people go for .

Certainty

Once a person obtains Canadian citizenship, they do not have to actively do anything to retain it. In fact, it is very difficult, particularly following 2017 reforms by the Trudeau government, for a person to lose their Canadian citizenship.

Travel Rights

Canada enjoys an excellent global reputation. are thus able to visit most countries in the world without a visa, or to receive one on arrival. This category includes countries such as the USA, UK, and the Schengen Countries — the vast majority of European Union members.

The Henley and Partners Passport Index 2021, which ranks different world passports by ‘power’, i.e., the ability they give their holders to visit other countries. Canada’s ranked 9th out of 199 passports in the report.

A Canadian passport also gives its holder the constitutionally-protected right to enter, remain in, and leave Canada.

Benefits for Children

A Canadian citizen can transmit their citizenship to their descendants. In general, anyone born in Canada has Canadian citizenship. Only a citizen, however, can automatically transmit their citizenship to children born outside Canada.

Job Opportunities

Some jobs, particularly sensitive positions in the government or security, may give preferential or exclusive consideration to people who are Canadian citizens.

Political Participation

The Canadian Constitution guarantees only Canadian citizens the or run for the federal Parliament. Unlike the United States, Canada poses no bar whatsoever for someone who was not born a citizen to become the head of government. But, to fully participate in Canada’s democratic life, citizenship is required.

Dual Citizenship

Canada permits . This fact means that Canada will allow a person to become a Canadian citizen, while retaining their other citizenship.

Symbolism

For many people, becoming a citizen is the fullest and final way to join the “Canadian family.” are often deeply moving events for participants and their loved ones.

© ɫ All Rights Reserved. Visit to discover your Canadian immigration options.

Share this article
Share your voice
Did you find this article helpful?
Thank you for your feedback.
Subscribe to our newsletter
Did you find this article helpful?
Please provide a response
Thank you for your helpful feedback
Please contact us if you would like to share additional feedback, have a question, or would like Canadian immigration assistance.
  • Do you need Canadian immigration assistance? Contact the Contact Cohen Immigration Law firm by
  • Send us your feedback or your non-legal assistance questions by emailing us at media@canadavisa.com
Related articles
IRCC’s backlog increasing as department looks to reduce temporary resident numbers
Jasper National Park
IRCC introduces interim measure allowing some foreign nationals to gain Canadian citizenship faster
Two young adults, male and female, with backpacks, enjoying time together during a hike on a beautiful sunny spring day.
Canada’s immigration minister proposes new legislation for Canadian citizenship by descent
Immigration Minister Marc Miller has introduced legislation to update Canada's citizenship laws.
Canada celebrates Citizenship Week 2024
Canada is marking its annual citizenship week.
Top Stories
Canada ranked 4th best country in the world in 2024
Business Insurance: An Overview for Newcomers to Canada
IRCC announces tighter cap for study permits and changes to PGWP eligibility
Join our free newsletter. Get Canada's top immigration stories delivered to your inbox.
Subscribe
More in Work
IRCC announces tighter cap for study permits and changes to PGWP eligibility
Parliament Hill in Ottawa
Destination Canada holds virtual job fair for bilingual candidates
A person siting in the living room, preparing for a virtual interview online.
IRCC introduces new LMIA-exempt work permit for select tech companies in Canada
A woman in a suit starts at a tablet while standing next to a window
Maintained status: What do I need to know?
Picture of a man smiling and holding a tablet
Link copied to clipboard