Government Receives Fourth Extension to Address Unconstitutional 'Lost Canadians' Issue

In 2023, the British Columbia Supreme Court ruled that aspects of the Canadian Citizenship Act were unconstitutional. 

April 2025—Ottawa, Canada—The federal government has received a fourth extension from the courts to resolve a long-standing constitutional issue involving the group known as “Lost Canadians.” This extension gives the government more time to amend citizenship laws that have left thousands of individuals in legal limbo despite their rightful claims to Canadian citizenship.

Who Are the Lost Canadians?

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The term “Lost Canadians” refers to people who were either born in Canada or to Canadian parents but were denied or stripped of citizenship due to outdated laws, bureaucratic loopholes, or discriminatory policies in the pre-2009 Citizenship Act. This includes individuals born before 1947, war brides, children born abroad to Canadian parents, and even some adopted individuals.

While previous legislative changes have resolved the status of many affected individuals, thousands remain excluded. The issue has persisted for decades, with advocates, including citizenship expert Don Chapman, pushing for full rectification and justice for all Lost Canadians.

Background on the Legal Challenge

In 2023, the British Columbia Supreme Court ruled that aspects of the Canadian Citizenship Act were unconstitutional. The court found that the existing laws unfairly excluded certain individuals from acquiring or retaining citizenship, violating the Charter of Rights and Freedoms.

The ruling gave the government a set timeline to fix the legislative flaws. However, due to the complexity of amending citizenship laws and political delays, Ottawa has received four extensions granted in April 2025.

Government’s Response and Delay

The federal government cited the need for “thorough consultation and legislative precision” as a reason for the repeated delays. However, critics argue that continued extensions reflect a lack of urgency and political will.

“Every delay means more lives in limbo,” said Don Chapman. “Some of these people are elderly, and justice delayed is truly justice denied.”

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has confirmed that new legislation is in the works and is expected to be tabled in Parliament later this year.

Implications of the Ongoing Delays

Each extension prolongs the legal uncertainty for affected individuals. Many Lost Canadians face obstacles in receiving passports, accessing healthcare, and enjoying the full rights of Canadian citizenship. In some cases, individuals have been deported or denied entry into Canada, despite strong ties to the country.

Moreover, the continued legal extensions also raise concerns about Canada’s commitment to equality and justice under the Charter. Human rights advocates warn that systemic discrimination must be addressed promptly to avoid further legal challenges and public backlash.

What’s Next?

With the latest extension granted, the federal government now faces renewed pressure to introduce and pass comprehensive amendments to the Citizenship Act. Advocacy groups and affected individuals are calling for transparent timelines and inclusive policies that leave no Canadian behind.

As the government works toward a solution, all eyes remain on Parliament to see whether 2025 will finally bring justice and resolution to the Lost Canadians.