News Release

Citizenship for adopted children

Ottawa, May 15, 2006 — On this International Day of Families, the Honourable Monte Solberg, Minister of Citizenship and Immigration, introduced a new bill in the House of Commons to amend the Citizenship Act. The proposed legislation will allow children adopted abroad by Canadian citizens to obtain Canadian citizenship without first having to become permanent residents. As a result, the difference in treatment between children adopted abroad and children born abroad of a Canadian parent will be minimized.

“We are supporting Canadian families who adopt foreign-born children by helping them get citizenship without having to go through the immigration process,” Minister Solberg said. “It is fitting that the introduction of this important bill occurs on the International Day of Families.”

In order for the adopted child to be granted citizenship, the adoption must conform to the laws of the province or the territory of residence of the adoptive parents. Adopted children will be able to acquire Canadian citizenship as soon as the adoption process is completed, providing that an application for citizenship is submitted in their name.

“This is a major step forward for foreign-born adopted children and their adoptive families,” said Sandra Scarth, President of the Adoption Council of Canada.

“The Government of Canada is committed to working to welcome these young new Canadians and enhance fairness,” said Minister Solberg.

For more information (media only):

Lesley Harmer
Director of Communications
Minister’s Office
Citizenship and Immigration Canada
(613) 954-1064

Marina Wilson
Spokesperson
Media Relations
Citizenship and Immigration Canada
(613) 941-7021

Ida-Mae Tracey
Office Manager
Adoption Council of Canada
1 888 542-3678

Patricia Fenton
Executive Director
Adoption Council of Ontario
(416) 482-0021

Karen Madeiros
Executive Director
Adoptive Families Association of BC
(604) 320-7330

Backgrounder:

• Amendment to the Citizenship Act: Adoption

Related Documents:

• Bill C-14: An Act to amend the Citizenship Act (adoption)