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Birth Abroad - FAQ

  1. Is it necessary to register the birth of a child born to a Canadian parent abroad?

  2. How can I obtain a Canadian citizenship certificate?

  3. How can I find out if a child born outside Canada is a Canadian citizen?

  4. How can I obtain a birth certificate?

1.   Is it necessary to register the birth of a child born to a Canadian parent abroad?

Since February 15, 1977, there is no requirement to register new births abroad. However, you must apply for a Certificate of Canadian Citizenship for a child born outside Canada who requires proof of citizenship.

For more information, see our FAQs on Canadian Citizenship.


2.   How can I obtain a Certificate of Canadian Citizenship?

For all matters relating to Canadian citizenship, consult Citizenship and Immigration Canada. If you are in Canada, contact a Citizenship and Immigration Call Centre. If you are outside Canada, contact the nearest Canadian government office abroad. See our FAQs on Canadian Citizenship.

3.   How can I find out if a child born abroad is a Canadian citizen?

Consult Citizenship and Immigration Canada. If you are in Canada, contact a Citizenship and Immigration Call Centre. If you are outside Canada, contact the nearest Canadian government office abroad. See our FAQs on Canadian Citizenship.


4.   How can I obtain a birth certificate?

To obtain a copy of a birth certificate, contact the Vital Statistics Office of the province where you were born. There is no central registry for births in Canada.