What you Need to Complete Your Canadian Passport Application
Canadian passports are not renewable. Some tips are listed below :
1. Obtain an application form.
- Use Passport On-line - available only to Canadians 16 years of age or over.
- Download a form.
- Pick-up an application form at any Canada Post outlet or Service Canada Centre.
- Visit a service location in person.
2. Complete applicable sections - Passport Photo.
Get a passport photo taken, and get two identical copies.
Many photo processing stores and most photographers will
do passport photos instantly and cheaply. Check the Yellow
Pages of your local phone book under Photographers to find
a handy location. Passport photos must be taken within 12
months of your application; within one month is the application
is for a child. Be sure to follow the specific standards set by
the Passport Office for acceptable photos.
Note: The name and address of the photographer and the date the photograph
was taken must appear on the back of the passport photograph.
3. Complete applicable sections - Proof of Canadian Citizenship.
(a) Original Proof of Canadian Citizenship :
- Born inside Canada
Either a birth certificate or Certificate of Canadian Citizenship.
- Born outside Canada
A Certificate of Canadian Citizenship, a Certificate of Naturalization,
a Certificate of Retention of Canadian Citizenship or a Certificate of
Registration of Birth Abroad.
- Canadian travel documents
Passport or certificate of identity issued within the last 5 years.
(b) At least one other document to support your identity :
- Drivers licence
Drivers licences are issued by the provincial governments in Canada.
- Any Other, please refer to Canada Passport office.
4. Complete applicable sections - Guarantors.
All Canadian passport applications must be signed by a guarantor.
The guarantor must also sign one of the passport photos, and sign and date any photocopies
of supporting documents. A guarantor is someone who has known you personally for at least
two years, can verify that your statements are accurate and is a member of one of the
professions listed on the Canadian passport application form.
5. Submit Application Process
- Submit Application Form
Deliver your Canadian passport application in person to nearest passport-issuing office in the country.
- Make Payment to Application Fees
The processing fees for a Canadian passport vary, depending on the type of
passport and where you apply. The application form will specify the processing fee.
There are several ways to pay the fee: in cash, if you are submitting your application form
in person; by certified cheque or money order, payable to the Receiver General for Canada;
by credit card; or by debit card. Not all options will be available if you are applying outside
Canada, so check the application form for payment details.
- Processing Time
The processing time is around 10-20 business days in United States or Canada. The processing time
will vary outside these areas.
Note: Processing passport applications may take longer during peak times, or if there are problems with the
application. The Passport Office suggests that you try to apply for your passport during off-peak times, between
June and November.