New Canadian passport was introduced at an event at Ottawa International Airport

EDT: On May 10, 2023, the new Canadian passport was introduced at an event at Ottawa International Airport.

A rising number of Americans with Canadian heritage are looking to reclaim their citizenship, driven in part by evolving political and social circumstances in the United States.

Immigration attorneys report heightened interest from individuals with Canadian parents or grandparents who are considering relocating to Canada. Concerns About Rights and Protections: Among those applying are members of the LGBTQ2S+ community, who voice worries over the diminishing rights and protections, along with the erosion of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) policies in the U.S.

"Many people are unsettled by the current trajectory in the United States," immigration lawyer Chantal Desloges told CTV News.ca. "There is a sense of insecurity with the expanding powers of the Trump administration, particularly concerning the restrictions on specific societal segments.

" This viewpoint is shared by immigration lawyer Max Chaudhary, who indicated that numerous clients, especially transgender individuals, are increasingly troubled by the changing government policies in the U.S. "The policies that render certain communities invisible have become a significant concern," he noted, adding that some families are moving in search of a safe environment for their children, particularly as they perceive threats to those protections. Offering Hope to the 'Lost Canadians': The uptick in applications coincides with changes in Canada's citizenship policies aimed at making them more accessible. In March, former immigration minister Marc Miller instructed officials to grant citizenship to so-called "Lost Canadians"—those born or adopted abroad who fell through legislative gaps. "The current rules mainly limit citizenship by descent to the first generation, thus excluding some individuals with a legitimate connection to Canada," Miller explained. "This has serious repercussions for families and affects significant life choices, such as where individuals might want to live, work, study, or raise a family." This directive came after Bill C-71, which attempted to address these issues but was halted when Parliament was prorogued. While the interim policy provides hope for some, uncertainties linger regarding the duration of this temporary measure and the potential for permanent legislative changes. A Diverse Applicant Pool: Those seeking Canadian citizenship span various ages and socio-economic backgrounds. Vancouver-based immigration lawyer Richard Kurland called the recent surge in applications unprecedented. "Typically, after a U.S. presidential election, we see an initial wave of inquiries, usually from older individuals who can afford to leave," he observed. "However, this time, applicants span the political spectrum and socio-economic classes, all driven by fear. People are fleeing culture wars involving issues like same-sex marriage, LGBTQ2S+ rights, and the uncertainty of the future. It's a widespread movement." Desloges concurred with this observation. "We've received inquiries from individuals in their 60s and 70s, as well as parents wanting to safeguard their children's futures. There is genuine fear for their safety and discomfort with the current social climate," Desloges explained. "People are serious about making this change." 'Motivated by Fear': For many, the desire to move to Canada stems from anxiety over deteriorating conditions in the U.S. "I've never seen anything quite like this; it's entirely fear-driven," Kurland noted. "Families have their unique issues, but when you peel back the layers, fear is the common thread.

" Desloges added that this fear extends beyond the political landscape to everyday social interactions. "There's a segment of society that has revealed its true colors," Desloges remarked. "People are realizing that many they thought aligned with them are now supporting government policies they disagree with." This shift has prompted more U.S. citizens to seek pathways to Canadian citizenship, many of whom might have previously hesitated to make such a drastic life change. "Some individuals don't want to remain in the U.S. until their citizenship paperwork is finalized," Kurland explained.

"They are exploring ways to temporarily enter Canada while navigating the standard immigration process." Desloges has observed a similar trend among her clients. "Those I'm speaking with are making serious life decisions. Several have told me, 'As soon as I get my Canadian passport, I'm leaving,' and they are actively looking for jobs. The level of seriousness is unprecedented.
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