
Can ‘Lost Canadians’ Force IRCC to Clear the C-3 Backlog?
Bill C-3 recognised the Lost Canadians as citizens, but IRCC’s certificate backlog keeps them waiting. When can a writ of mandamus compel the department to decide?

Colin R. Singer is a Canadian immigration lawyer who has been in good standing with the Barreau du Québec for more than 35 years. As Founder and Managing Partner of immigration.ca — Canada’s longest-standing online immigration platform, operating since 1994 — he is recognized as one of Canada’s foremost authorities on economic-class and business immigration.
His practice focuses on skilled-worker and business immigration, including the recruitment of international professionals, intra-company transfers, and Canada’s Start-Up Visa program. He advises individuals, families, and corporate clients across healthcare, manufacturing, food services, construction, and technology, and leads immigration.ca’s appeal and advocacy work on behalf of applicants challenging refused visa and immigration decisions.

Bill C-3 recognised the Lost Canadians as citizens, but IRCC’s certificate backlog keeps them waiting. When can a writ of mandamus compel the department to decide?

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Before recruiting new immigrants, Ottawa must clear the unconstitutional backlog of citizenship-by-descent applications.

IRCC’s estimate for proof of Canadian citizenship rose from 25 to 33 months on September 3, 2026 while the application queue grew just 1.5%.

Canada needs a smarter immigration strategy that prioritizes talent, restores Express Entry’s economic focus and gives provinces a stronger role.

Canada raises study permit proof of funds to $23,448 from September 1, 2026. See what international students must prove about their finances to IRCC.

IRCC says Canada’s Self-Employed Persons Program is no longer fit for purpose as it considers a redesigned immigration pathway for global talent.

IRCC can process a citizenship certificate urgently to attend school, college or university. See what to submit and why the registrar’s deadline matters.

Canada closes its Hong Kong PR pathways with tens of thousands still waiting, as IRCC warns most remaining cases will be processed after 2027.

IRCC now allows 90 days, up from 60, to supply a positive LMIA after filing a work permit application. See who qualifies and what happens if the LMIA is late.

IRCC updated its citizenship certificate package on August 25, 2026. See how a parent must prove 1,095 days in Canada and who cannot swear an affidavit.

Canada has issued a record 114,865 Express Entry invitations in 2026 after a new CEC draw. See what the milestone means for candidates.