The Three Branches of Government in Canada

The Government of Canada has three branches. The executive carries out laws and runs the government, the legislative makes laws, and the judicial applies and interprets laws independently. This separation of roles is a foundation of Canadian democracy.

The executive branch

The executive branch carries out laws and runs the government day to day. It includes the Crown, the Prime Minister and the Cabinet. The Prime Minister and ministers make decisions and manage government departments. To understand how that leader reaches office, see our guide on how the Prime Minister is chosen.

The legislative branch

The legislative branch makes the laws. In Canada, this is Parliament, made up of the Sovereign, the Senate and the House of Commons. A bill must pass through these stages before it becomes law. This system sits within the wider picture described in our overview of how Canada is governed.

The judicial branch

The judicial branch applies and interprets the laws. It is made up of the courts, which settle disputes and make sure the law is followed. Crucially, the judicial branch is independent of the government, so that justice stays impartial.

The three branches at a glance

Here is an easy way to remember the role of each branch:

• Executive: the Crown, the Prime Minister and the Cabinet carry out laws and run the government.
• Legislative: Parliament (the Sovereign, Senate and House of Commons) makes the laws.
• Judicial: the courts apply and interpret the laws, fully independent.
• The three branches share power so that it is never held by a single group alone.

This structure comes up often on the citizenship test. Practise with our free mock exams to keep the three branches clear in your mind.

Frequently asked questions

What are the three branches of Canada's government? The executive, the legislative and the judicial branches. Each has a distinct role in making and applying the laws.

Which branch makes the laws? The legislative branch, which is Parliament, made up of the Sovereign, the Senate and the House of Commons.

Why is the judicial branch independent? So the courts can apply the law fairly, free from the influence of the government and elected officials.