The proposed amendments to the Citizenship Act aim to expand citizenship parameters, particularly for individuals born outside Canada to Canadian parents, restore citizenship rights for those who lost it due to past procedural issues, offer citizenship pathways for adopted children, and consider claims for those affected by a parent's death.
The changes could lead to significant administrative costs for the government in processing a potentially larger volume of citizenship applications. Increased staffing and resources may be needed, leading to higher expenses. Citizens could also face costs related to legal advice or assistance in navigating the new citizenship criteria, especially if the regulations surrounding "substantial connection" are complex or poorly defined.
Supporters of the bill advocate for increased inclusivity and the rectification of past injustices related to citizenship losses due to procedural issues. They believe the amendments reflect Canada’s commitment to acknowledging its diverse global population and strengthening ties with Canadians abroad, which can enhance the country’s cultural richness and international standing.
Critics worry about the financial implications of processing more citizenship applications, which could strain government resources and lead to delays in application processing. Additionally, concerns arise over the vague criteria of "substantial connection," which may lead to inconsistent decision-making and unfair treatment of applicants less firmly connected to Canada, ultimately undermining the integrity of the citizenship process.