Canadian Citizen Card Replacement: What You Need to Know

Many Canadians wonder about the process of replacing lost or stolen citizenship documentation. This article clarifies the procedures involved in obtaining a Canadian citizen card replacement, emphasizing that physical cards are no longer issued.

Understanding Canadian Citizenship Documentation

Before delving into the replacement process, it’s crucial to understand the types of documentation proving Canadian citizenship. Historically, Canada issued physical citizenship cards. However, the issuance of physical citizenship cards ceased in February 2012. Therefore, a “Canadian citizen card replacement” doesn’t involve replacing a physical card. Instead, the focus is on replacing the citizenship certificate, a paper document.

This is a significant point to remember. If you’re searching for information on replacing a lost or stolen “card,” you’re actually looking for information on replacing your citizenship certificate. This certificate serves as the official proof of your citizenship.

Replacing a Lost or Stolen Citizenship Certificate

The process for replacing a lost or stolen Canadian citizenship certificate depends on whether the certificate was lost or stolen.

Lost Certificate

If your citizenship certificate was lost, the process is relatively straightforward. You don’t need a police report. You simply need to apply for a new citizenship certificate through Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). The application process is described in detail later in this article. This is the simplest scenario for a Canadian citizen card replacement (in the sense of replacing your certificate).

The application is typically completed online or via mail depending on your preference and access to necessary technology. You’ll be required to provide personal information and pay the associated fee.

Stolen Certificate

If your citizenship certificate was stolen, the process is more involved. Reporting the theft to your local police department is the first and mandatory step. You will need to obtain a copy of the police report to submit with your application. Following the police report, you’ll need to complete a solemn declaration form, which details the circumstances of the theft. After completing these steps, you can apply for a new certificate. Again, this new certificate acts as your official Canadian citizen card replacement.

This additional step of reporting the theft is crucial for official record-keeping and potentially for future investigations. Failure to report a theft could impact future applications or processes.

The Application Process for a New Certificate

Regardless of whether your certificate was lost or stolen, you will need to apply for a new one through IRCC. You can do this either online or by mail.

Applying Online

The online application is generally faster. You will need:

• An IRCC online account.
• A scanner or camera to upload required documents.
• A credit or debit card to pay the application fee.

An electronic certificate (e-certificate) will be sent to your email address upon approval, and this acts as your official Canadian citizen card replacement.

Applying by Mail

If you prefer to apply by mail, you can request a paper application package. This package contains all the necessary forms and instructions. After completing the forms and gathering the required documents, you will mail them to IRCC along with the application fee. You will receive a paper certificate in the mail upon approval.

Key Information and Considerations

Here are some crucial points to remember throughout the Canadian citizen card replacement process:

• Fee: The application fee is $75 CAD per person.
• Processing Time: Processing times can vary, but currently, expect a wait of approximately 17 months or longer. Check the status online if your application takes longer than six weeks.
• Acceptable Proof: Both the e-certificate and paper certificate are valid proof of citizenship.
• Contact Information: For assistance within Canada, contact the IRCC Call Centre at 1-888-242-2100. For Canadians outside of Canada, contact the nearest Canadian embassy, high commission, or consulate.
• Solemn Declaration: If your certificate was lost, stolen, destroyed, or you never received it after six weeks, you can submit a Solemn Declaration (Form CIT 0457).
• Document Requirements: You will need two identical passport photos, a copy of government-issued photo ID, the police report (if applicable), and any other documents requested in the application instructions. Certified translations are required if your documents aren’t in English or French.

Remember, obtaining a new citizenship certificate is the only way to replace a lost or stolen citizenship card or certificate, as physical cards are no longer issued. The process, while potentially time-consuming, is straightforward and ensures you maintain official proof of your Canadian citizenship. Acting promptly and following the instructions carefully will help expedite the process.

Frequently Asked Questions: Replacing a Lost or Stolen Canadian Citizenship Certificate

What should I do if my Canadian citizenship card is lost or stolen?

Since the issuance of physical Canadian citizenship cards ceased in February 2012, you cannot replace a lost or stolen card. Instead, you need to apply for a new citizenship certificate, which serves as proof of your citizenship.

What should I do if my Canadian citizenship certificate is lost or stolen?

If your certificate is lost, you can simply apply for a replacement. However, if your certificate was stolen, you must first report the theft to your local police department and obtain a police report. This report is mandatory. You will then need to complete a solemn declaration form and apply for a new certificate.

Do I need a police report to replace my lost or stolen citizenship certificate?

A police report is only required if your certificate was stolen. It is not necessary if your certificate was lost or damaged.

What type of document will I receive as a replacement for my lost or stolen citizenship card or certificate?

You will receive a new, standard 8½” x 11” citizenship certificate. The government no longer issues citizenship cards.

How do I apply for a replacement citizenship certificate?

You can apply online through the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website or by mail. The online application is generally faster, but processing times can still be significant. Instructions and required forms are available on the IRCC website.

What documents do I need to apply for a replacement certificate?

You will need a completed application form (CIT 0001), two identical passport photos, a copy of government-issued photo ID, the police report (if applicable), the original damaged certificate (if applicable), the processing fee ($75 CAD), and a certified translation if documents aren’t in English or French. If applying more than six weeks after the loss or theft, a Solemn Declaration (Form CIT 0457) is also required.

What is the processing fee for a replacement certificate?

The processing fee is $75 CAD per applicant.

How long does it take to receive my replacement certificate?

Processing times vary, but currently expect a wait of approximately 17 months. You can check the status of your application online.

What if my application takes longer than six weeks?

If your application takes longer than six weeks, you should check its status online. If there is a delay, you will need to submit a Solemn Declaration (Form CIT 0457) explaining the reason for the delay.

What is the difference between an e-certificate and a paper certificate?

Both are valid proof of citizenship. The e-certificate is delivered electronically and starts with “X,” while the paper certificate is mailed to you and starts with “K”. Both contain the same essential information.

What should I do if my certificate arrives damaged or is lost in the mail?

If your certificate arrives damaged, contact IRCC immediately. If it’s lost in the mail, contact Canada Post and IRCC to report the issue.

Can I laminate my citizenship certificate?

No. Laminating your certificate will invalidate it.

What if I don’t have a citizenship card or certificate, but need to prove my citizenship?

Explore alternative acceptable documentation. Consult the relevant government website or agency to determine what other forms of proof are considered valid for establishing your Canadian citizenship.

Where can I find more information or get help with my application?

For assistance within Canada, contact the IRCC Call Centre at 1-888-242-2100. If you are outside Canada, contact the nearest Canadian embassy, high commission, or consulate. You can also find helpful information on the IRCC website.