Plain-English civics
How federal bills become law in Canada
Federal bills normally pass through the House of Commons and Senate before Royal Assent. Each chamber can debate, study, amend, and vote on the bill.
House, Senate, and Royal Assent
A federal bill can begin in the House of Commons or the Senate. It is introduced at first reading, debated at second reading, studied in committee, reported back, debated again at third reading, and then sent to the other chamber.
Both chambers must agree on the final text. Once that happens, Royal Assent makes the bill law, although some provisions may come into force later.
Official sources
PoliticalData.ca explainers are civic education, not legal advice. Official legislative records control if there is a conflict.