Canada Prepares to Relax Citizenship Regulations, Amends Citizenship Act

One more step has been taken by the Canadian government to confirm that it follows an open door policy and provides a warm welcome to people who immigrate to the country. In the latest move, the Canadian House of Commons has passed the changes in the legislation of citizenship act.

The fast moving and efficient government of Canada presented the bill on the very same day in the Senate. The Canadian government was in a hurry to pass this bill as it wanted to give this bill and serve it as a present to the world on the Canada Day.

Making changes in the citizenship act is an important aspect in the legislative agenda of the present government. There are many changes that are being proposed by the government, the prominent among them are:

• Apply for Citizenship Early - Reduction in the number of years that are required to apply for Canadian citizenship. At present a permanent resident of Canada has to stay for 4 – 6 years before citizenship can be applied. This number will go down to 3 – 5 years in the new changes.

• Good News for Temporary Residents - Immigrants on temporary resident visa, including student visa and study permit can now apply for citizenship early. A portion of the number of time period spend by them in Canada will be counted towards the 3 year requirement.

• Repeal Intent to Reside - The third important change that has taken place is the provision for intention to reside. In the changes that are being proposed in the new bill this provision will be repealed.

• Relaxation in Language Proficiency - Relaxation will be given to certain applicants as they will not be required to fulfill the language proficiency requirements.

• Citizenship Revocation Repealed – As and when the proposed changes become effective, one of the most contentious issues of revocation of citizenship will be cancelled.

Canada has sealed its image as a country which does welcome immigrants with open arms. We all wish that these proposed changes become effective as a law soon. Planning to apply for Canada visa, contact the global resettlement service provider WWICS.