How to obtain Canadian citizenship when a child is born in the country

The question of obtaining citizenship by birth in Canada remains relevant for many families, especially foreign nationals considering giving birth in this country. Canada is one of the few countries in the world that follows the principle of jus soli (right of the soil): a child born on Canadian territory automatically receives citizenship, regardless of the parents' citizenship or immigration status. The only exceptions are children of diplomats and foreign government officials.

Why This Matters for Foreigners

For many foreign nationals, having a child born in Canada is a way to give their child access to high living standards, a free education system, healthcare, and legal protection guaranteed by Canadian law. This makes Canada attractive to parents who want to build a strong foundation for their children's future. Many families view giving birth in Canada as a long-term investment in their child's well-being.

How Citizenship by Birth Works

According to the Canadian Citizenship Act, any child born on Canadian soil automatically becomes a citizen. No application or additional procedures are required—you just need to obtain a birth certificate. Exceptions are minimal and apply to children of diplomats and certain foreign government representatives.

According to researchers, after the pandemic, the number of births to non-residents returned to 2019 levels, confirming the continued interest in giving birth in Canada among foreign nationals.

What Parents and the Child Get

A child who receives Canadian citizenship at birth is entitled to free public education, access to the public healthcare system, and a wide range of social benefits. In the future, they'll be able to travel visa-free to many countries, including European Union countries, the United Kingdom, and Japan, as well as receive government scholarships and subsidies.

However, it's important to understand that parents don't automatically receive any citizenship or permanent residence rights. If they're not Canadian citizens or permanent residents, they need to go through standard immigration procedures. When the child turns 18, they can apply to sponsor their parents if they meet the requirements of the family immigration program.

Cost of Giving Birth for Foreigners

The cost of giving birth in Canada for foreigners depends on the province and medical facility. On average, a natural birth costs between $5,000 and $8,000 CAD, while a cesarean section costs between $10,000 and $20,000 CAD. These amounts include doctor's fees, hospital stay, and postpartum