Canada is now accepting requests for proof of citizenship via the internet.

You can submit your application, pay your fees, and provide any supporting documents using the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) online portal.

With the new portal, you can perform three actions:

• seek a replacement proof of citizenship (also known as a citizenship certificate) that does not require any modifications to the certificate’s details, such as name or birthdate;

• provide clear claims for proof of descent citizenship; or

• a request for a citizenship record search

If one of your parents was a Canadian citizen, you can apply for proof of citizenship online.

On or after April 17, 2009, you were awarded citizenship, or you were born in Canada on or after February 15, 1977.

If you don’t, you’ll have to fill out a paper application.

You can check if you are qualified to apply online using a tool provided by the government. If that’s the case, you’ll be asked to create an account or log in using one you already have. If you want to request your own records, you’ll also need an account. If you want to seek someone else’s records, you must do so in writing.

In a press release, the IRCC claims that the applications will save time for those submitting requests from outside Canada and the United States.

You are no longer required to submit these applications in person at an embassy or high commission, but you may do so if you like.

Paper applications will continue to be accepted and processed by the Canadian government. If you’ve already made a paper application for the same request, IRCC advises against doing so again.

You may be eligible for citizenship if you were born outside of Canada but one of your parents was born here. You’ll need Proof of Citizenship to receive it, though.

This certificate entitles you to citizenship benefits such as obtaining a Canadian passport, working in Canada, and voting in Canadian elections.