Father on the Birth Certificate, but not biological

[Horton_TIm]

I am a Canadian by birth, married to an Argentinean. We have two children, one is mine biologically, the other is not, but I registered as the father on the birth certificate, years after the birth.

When I asked the embassy about Canadian citizenship for the children, they advised me that a DNA test would likely be required.

I am not sure what is the best way to proceed. Should I look into adopting the child, even though I am already the legal father?

 

[canuck_in_uk]

I am a Canadian by birth, married to an Argentinean. We have two children, one is mine biologically, the other is not, but I registered as the father on the birth certificate, years after the birth.

When I asked the embassy about Canadian citizenship for the children, they advised me that a DNA test would likely be required.

I am not sure what is the best way to proceed. Should I look into adopting the child, even though I am already the legal father?

You need to actually adopt the child to be recognized as the legal father in Canada and therefore be able to pass your citizenship to the child. However, a quick check on the IRCC website indicates that Argentina currently does not allow adoptions by Canadians, so it seems you may be stuck for the moment https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/canadians/adopt-child-abroad/restrictions.html. I don't know if there is some sort of exemption because you are the step-parent, that is something you would need to research. If you are planning to move to Canada, you would need to sponsor your spouse and would include the child in the application.

For your biological child, you can apply for a Certificate of Citizenship without issue.