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From Evelyn and the Team at Ackah Business Immigration Law

Immigration rules rarely change with fanfare. More often, they shift quietly, through proposed legislation, policy updates or new interpretations that can alter outcomes overnight.

Right now, we are seeing several developments that underscore why staying informed and planning early is essential, whether you hold dual citizenship, are considering a move to Canada in the coming years or are already here building a life.

This month, we want to share what we are watching closely and why it matters to you.



A Proposed U.S. Bill That Could Impact Dual Citizens

A newly proposed bill in the U.S. Senate has raised serious concerns for people who hold both U.S. and Canadian citizenship.

The Exclusive Citizenship Act of 2025, introduced by Senator Bernie Moreno of Ohio, would require U.S. citizens to pledge sole allegiance to the United States. If passed, dual citizenship would no longer be permitted.

Under the proposal:

Current dual citizens would have one year to choose which citizenship to keep.

Keeping U.S. citizenship would require formally renouncing Canadian citizenship.

Keeping Canadian citizenship would result in the loss of U.S. citizenship.

Future acquisition of another citizenship could be treated as relinquishing U.S. status.

For millions of people whose lives involve both countries, this would represent a major shift. Dual citizenship has been lawful and widely accepted for decades. This proposal challenges that reality.

At this stage, the bill is only a proposal and must still move through Congress. Legal challenges are expected if it advances. However, if enacted, federal agencies would have a limited window to implement and enforce new rules.

If you hold both U.S. and Canadian citizenship, this is not a moment for panic, but it is a moment to stay informed and seek advice before assumptions become costly mistakes.

Planning a Move to Canada in 2026 Means Starting Now

Another trend we are seeing is longer timelines across almost every immigration stream.

Work permits, permanent residence applications and family sponsorships are taking longer than many people expect. Some programs that once felt predictable are now far more competitive.

We are also seeing clear prioritization. French speakers, healthcare professionals and skilled trades are moving faster. Others may still qualify, but only with careful planning and a strong strategy.

Family immigration deserves special attention. 

Spousal and partner sponsorships often appear straightforward, yet small missteps, missing evidence or misunderstandings about intent can lead to serious delays or refusals. We frequently see issues arise when people apply for visitor visas after marriage without understanding how intent is assessed.

Waiting until the last minute can quietly close doors that are difficult to reopen.

Why Your Immigration Strategy Needs the Right Legal Guide

Many people don’t think about the difference between an immigration lawyer and an immigration consultant until something goes wrong.

At the beginning, a move, a work permit or a business expansion can feel simple. That’s often when speed or cost takes priority over long-term protection.

However, immigration decisions involve discretion, interpretation and future consequences. Officers assess credibility, intent and risk, not just documents.

As an immigration lawyer, my role is to think several steps ahead. That means identifying legal risk before it becomes a refusal and building a strategy that protects your status, your business and your future options over time.

We often meet people only after a file has fallen apart. At that stage, timelines are tighter, options are fewer and the stakes are higher.

If you’re building a path from temporary status to permanent residence or expanding across borders, this is the stage to be intentional.

Staying Informed Is How You Protect Your Future

Immigration rules don’t stand still. A policy change can alter eligibility. A procedural update can delay an application. A missed requirement can quietly shut a door that once seemed open.

Staying informed is not optional when you are building a future for yourself, your family or your business across borders.

Referrer of the Month

Ved Aswani, Partner and U.S. Tax Leader at RSM Canada

Ved is partner at RSM focused on Corporate US tax and Cross-border tax. Ved assists private and public corporations in a variety of industries including private equity, construction, real estate and technology with both inbound and domestic U.S. corporate tax services.

Ved has more than 19 years of experience helping clients navigate complex cross-border issues, assisting them with global compliance services through foreign tax reporting, U.S.-Canada treaty analysis, foreign tax credit utilization and withholding tax management.

More about Ved

A Clear Strategy Starts With the Right Conversation

If your plans involve Canada or the United States, now is the right time to make sure your strategy still fits today’s reality.

Our team is here to help you grow and thrive beyond borders.

📞 Call us at (587) 200-9584

📧 contact@ackahlaw.com

🌐 www.ackahlaw.com

Listen to Evelyn on the Ask Canada Immigration Lawyer Podcast

Evelyn dives deeper into the real stories, strategies and human moments behind immigration law.

From border updates and work permit tips to interviews with entrepreneurs and newcomers building their lives in Canada, the Ask Canada Immigration Lawyer Podcast helps you stay informed, inspired and confident in your next immigration decision.

Explore all episodes

Previous Webinars

Canada's Entrepreneur Pathways - Your Journey Starts Here | Ackah Law Webinar

Moving to Canada with the Start-up Visa:

Launch Your Future | Ackah Law Webinar

Your Path to the North: How Americans Can Move to Canada | Ackah Law Webinar