FAQ

How is Metis identity and citizenship established in the Metis Nation British Columbia (MNBC)?

Metis identity is verified through Metis ancestry. By providing your genealogy with supporting documentation, we are able to determine whether or not you qualify for citizenship.

Where do I apply for citizenship?

Citizenship applications packages are available on our website at www.mnbc.ca or by contacting the Regional Registry Clerk in your region.

How long will I have to wait until to received my card if my application is approved?

The application processing time is approximately 12 months. The MNBC processes thousands of applications and the genealogical information must be verified for each applicant. This process can be expedited by ensuring that all information required is accurate and complete.

I have lost my card, can it be replaced?

Yes. You can request a replacement card application from your registry clerk and pay a $20.00 non-refundable processing fee to have your card reissued.

Does my card need to be renewed?

Yes. Your card will need to be updated every 5 years. Children’s cards may need to be updated sooner i.e. If your child was 14 years old when they received a card, and they now are 16 or older, they will need to update their card.

One of my parents is Caucasian and the other is a status Indian. Does that make me Metis?

No. You will have to apply and prove your Metis ancestry.

If my parents have already applied,should I still send in my application?

Yes. If your parent(s) have citizenship cards but you have not made your own application, you will not be processed as a citizen of the Metis Nation regardless of your age.

I have applied for my citizenship, but, I have moved. What do I do?

If you are still living in British Columbia please contact the registrar’s office to update your citizenship information.

How do I get an Indian and Northern Affairs (INAC) screening form as they cannot be downloaded from your website?

The INAC screening form is a triplicate form that must be mailed to the applicant. Please contact your regional registry clerk at to have one mailed to you as part of your application. Failure to do so will result in an incomplete file and take longer to process your application.

Why do I have to provide proof that I live within the province of British Columbia?

MNBC citizenship is only available to Metis individuals residing with the province of British Columbia. Proof of current residency is required to ensure that MNBC provincial citizenship cards are not being issued to individuals outside of the province of British Columbia.

Am I able to pay an additional fee to fast track my application process?

No. To be fair to all applicants, the citizenship registry applications are handled in chronological order from the date they are received.

I was born in another province. Do I submit my Metis citizenship application to my birth province, or the province where I reside?

Applications are only accepted based on your province of residency.

If I move outside of the province of British Columbia, will I need to re-apply for citizenship in my new province?

Yes. All provinces offering a Metis citizenship registry operate independently from each other. If you move to another province, you will need to contact the Metis citizenship registry for that province to inquire about their registry process.

My parent is a Metis citizen in another province. Are you able to have information from their file forwarded to you to complete my application in British Columbia?

No. Due to privacy laws, information and documents are not shared between registries. You will need to collect the necessary documents and forward them to the MNBC Registry to complete your application.

Citizenship Card Renewal Frequently Asked Questions

Does my Citizenship card require renewal?

Yes, cards issued to individuals aged fifteen years and older require renewal every five (5) years.

Is there a fee to renew my card?

There is no fee associated with the renewal process.

Why am I being asked to supply a current color passport photograph, can't I use my original one?

A current color passport photograph is required for two reasons:

• Ensures the photograph attached to the card is current
• Color passport photographs result in the best quality photograph on the card

What is the proof of residency requirement?

Individual(s) nineteen (19) years of age and older renewing their citizenship card are required to provide proof of British Columbia residency.

Why did I receive an Indian and Northern Affairs Canada screening form with my renewal notification?

The renewal process provides an opportunity for Citizens to update their file with the Central Registry.

Will I be removed from the Central Registry database if I do not renew my card?

No, Citizens are not removed from the database if they do not renew their card.

Why is it important to renew my MNBC citizenship card?

The renewal process provides Citizens with the opportunity to update their file with the Central Registry every five (5) years. The renewal process provides the Registry with the opportunity on an ongoing basis to maintain accurate and current data, statistical and demographic information.