Non-Canadian Children Living Outside of Canada

[ryanjpyle]

I have a tough question.

I am a Canadian citizen and I am living full time in China. I recently married a Chinese citizen who had two children (-18). The children are Chinese passport holders. We all live together in China. My wife is not eligable for Canadian citizenship unless she lives in Canada for 3 years out of 4. Now, the question, what about the children? Can they apply for citizenship through me? I have heard that the 3 years out of 4 law doesn't apply to minors (-18)? Is it true?

Best,

Ryan

 

[PMM]

Hi

I have a tough question.

I am a Canadian citizen and I am living full time in China. I recently married a Chinese citizen who had two children (-18). The children are Chinese passport holders. We all live together in China. My wife is not eligable for Canadian citizenship unless she lives in Canada for 3 years out of 4. Now, the question, what about the children? Can they apply for citizenship through me? I have heard that the 3 years out of 4 law doesn't apply to minors (-18)? Is it true?

Best,

Ryan

1. They have to "land" in Canada as permanent residents first before they can apply for citizenship.
2. If they are under 18, then they don't require 3 years residency as PRs, but only the adoptive parent, parent or legal guardian.
read: http://www.cic.gc.ca/english/citizenship/become-eligibility.asp

PMM