GATINEAU, February 15, 2026

Today we mark National Flag of Canada Day and the 61st anniversary of Canada’s red and white maple leaf flag, raised for the very first time on Parliament Hill on February 15, 1965.

Over the decades, the flag has become much more than an emblem. It is a powerful symbol of belonging as well as the Canadian values of unity, inclusion and democracy. In a vast and diverse country, our flag serves as a guiding light for Canada, especially in moments of shared sorrow. This National Flag Day, the Canadian flag is flown at half-mast as our country mourns with the community of Tumbler Ridge, British Columbia, following the horrific mass shooting that claimed innocent lives.

Flag Day also takes on special significance this year with the Milano Cortina 2026 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games as we celebrate our athletes who embody the essence of the maple leaf, showcasing Canada’s spirit and values on the international stage.

December 15, 2025—Ottawa—The Government of Canada is committed to making Canadian citizenship law fair, clear and reflective of how Canadian families live today, both in and outside Canada.

Bill C-3, An Act to Amend the Citizenship Act (2025), is in effect as of today. Moving forward, people born before December 15, 2025, who would have been citizens if not for the first-generation limit or other outdated rules, will be Canadian and can now apply for proof of citizenship.

As previously announced, the new law also creates a modern, consistent path going forward. A Canadian parent born or adopted abroad can now pass on citizenship to their child born or adopted outside Canada today or in the future, provided they can demonstrate at the time of application that they spent three years in Canada prior to their child’s birth or adoption. This approach supports fairness and clarity for Canadian families abroad while reinforcing the principle that real, demonstrated ties to Canada guide citizenship by descent.