How to Apply for a Passport in Canada: A Step-by-Step Guide

If you are a Canadian citizen and plan to travel abroad, you will need a Canadian passport. There are different processes for applying for a new passport, renewing an existing one, or replacing a lost or damaged passport. You can choose to apply in person or by mail. Processing times and fees vary based on the type of service you need. Our guide provides step-by-step information on all the passport services available in Canada.  Use this helpful guide to learn all the essential steps for getting a Canadian passport.

Applying for a New Passport in Canada

To travel abroad, Canadians must have a valid passport. The following section outlines the step-by-step process for applying for a new Canadian passport.

Required Documents for a New Passport Application

Before submitting a new passport application, ensure you have all the necessary documents. These include:

• Two identical passport photos
• Proof of Canadian citizenship
• Damaged or expired passports (if applicable)
• Two identical references (non-family members)

Application Forms for a Canadian Passport

There are two forms for a Canadian passport application: one for adults and one for children. The forms can be found online or picked up in person at a passport office or Service Canada Centre.

How to Submit Your Application

Applications can be submitted online or in person at a passport office or Service Canada Centre. If submitting in person, you may be required to book an appointment in advance. It is important to double-check that all required documents have been included before submitting the application.

Processing Times and Fees

The processing time for a new passport can take up to 20 working days. However, it is possible to expedite the process for an additional fee. The fees vary based on the type of application and service selected.

Urgent and Express Services

In certain cases, it is possible to receive a passport on the same day via urgent and express services. However, these services are only available at select locations and require an additional fee. It is important to note that these services may not be available during peak travel times and should not be relied on as a last-minute option.

Renewing a Passport in Canada

Renewing a passport in Canada is a simple process, provided you meet the eligibility criteria and have all the necessary documentation. A passport can be renewed if it has not expired for more than one year, or if it has been expired for less than one year but has fewer than six months of validity remaining. It is important to note that if your passport has been damaged or lost, you must apply for a new passport.

Eligibility for Passport Renewal

To be eligible to renew your passport, you must meet the following criteria:

• Your previous passport was valid for a period of 5 or 10 years.
• Your previous passport has not been reported lost or stolen.
• Your previous passport has not been damaged beyond normal wear and tear.
• You are 16 years of age or older.

Application Forms for a Passport Renewal

To renew your passport, you will need to fill out the Adult Simplified Renewal Passport Application form. This form can be downloaded online or picked up at any passport office or Service Canada Centre.

How to Submit Your Passport Renewal Application

Once you have filled out your application form, you can submit it in person at a passport office, a Service Canada Centre, or mail it to the passport office. If you are renewing your passport by mail, you must also include your previous passport, two identical passport photos, and a copy of your travel itinerary.

Processing Times and Fees

The processing times for passport renewal applications vary depending on the method of submission and whether or not you have requested expedited service. In general, renewal applications submitted in person at a passport office can be processed within five business days, while mail-in renewals can take up to 20 working days. Fees for passport renewal are subject to change.

Renewing a Child Passport

Children’s passports cannot be renewed. If your child is under 16 and has a passport that has expired or is expiring soon, you will need to apply for a new child passport. The application process is similar to that for adult passport renewals, with the additional requirement of providing proof of your child’s identity and parental consent. Renewing a passport is a simple and straightforward process that can be completed in person or by mail. Before you begin the process, make sure you meet the eligibility criteria and have all the necessary documentation.

Replacing a Lost or Damaged Passport in Canada

If your passport was lost or stolen, or if it was damaged to a point where it is no longer usable, you will need to apply for a replacement passport. This section outlines the steps you need to take to replace a lost or damaged passport in Canada.

Reporting a Lost or Stolen Passport

If your passport was lost or stolen, you will need to report it to the nearest Government of Canada Passport office as soon as possible. This will help prevent anyone from using your passport for illegal activities. You can report a lost or stolen passport online, by phone, or in person. Once you have reported the loss or theft of your passport, you will need to apply for a new one.

Replacing a Damaged Passport

If your passport was damaged, you will need to apply for a new one. A damaged passport can include water damage, a torn cover, missing or torn pages, or any other kind of significant damage. If your passport has minor damage, such as a bent corner, it may still be usable for travel. Check with the airline or border agency to confirm whether your damaged passport will be accepted for travel.

Required Documents for Passport Replacement

• A completed application form
• Two identical passport photos
• Proof of Canadian citizenship
• Proof of identity
• Any documents related to the loss or theft of your passport (if applicable)
• Payment for the replacement fee

How to Submit Your Passport Replacement Application

You can submit your passport replacement application in person at a passport office, Service Canada Centre, or by mail. If you are submitting your application by mail, be sure to include a self-addressed, pre-paid envelope so your new passport can be mailed to you. If you require urgent service, you can make an appointment at a Passport Canada office for same-day service.

Processing Times and Fees

The processing time for a passport replacement application varies depending on the type of service you select. Standard processing times are approximately 20 working days (not including mailing time). If you require urgent service, you can get your passport the same day if you apply in person at a Passport Canada office or pay an additional fee for urgent processing. The fee for a replacement passport is higher than for a first-time application or renewal, and varies depending on the type of service you require.

Replacing a lost or damaged passport can be a stressful and time-consuming process, but there are resources available to help you. If you have any questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to contact a Government of Canada Passport office for assistance.

Additional Passport Services in Canada

In addition to the passport application and renewal services, the Canadian government also offers other passport-related services for Canadian citizens. These services include:

Passport Photos

One must submit a passport-sized photo as part of a passport application. While a photo can be taken at certain passport offices, it is more convenient to obtain a photo prior to applying to permit for more flexibility in terms of time and location. Photos must adhere to strict guidelines, such as specific sizing and criteria for facial expression. A list of additional things to consider can be found on the Canadian government website.

Changing Passport Details

If one needs to change or correct information on their passport, such as a change of address or name, a specific application must be submitted through the passport office. This process can also be completed online in some cases. Additional documents are typically required to support the requested change, such as a marriage certificate or official government ID with the updated information.

Traveling with Two Passports

If one has dual citizenship, they may be permitted to have a passport from both countries. This is a useful option, as it can permit entry into certain countries that otherwise may not allow entry from one’s primary place of citizenship or residence. One can learn more about this process on the Canadian government website.

Verifying Passport Application Status

It is important to be able to track the status of a passport application to anticipate processing time and delivery. One can check the status of their passport application online using specific application details and a reference number.

Other Travel Documents

Canada offers additional travel documents for Canadian citizens, such as emergency travel documents or a certificate of identity, which may be necessary in certain situations. These documents can be applied for online or in person at a passport office.

FAQs about Applying for a Passport in Canada

General Questions about Passports

If you’re planning to travel outside of Canada, you need a passport. Here are some answers to common questions about Canadian passports:

• What is a Canadian passport?
• Why do I need a passport?
• How long is a passport valid for?
• Can Canadian citizens travel without a passport?
• What is the difference between a passport book and a passport card?

Specific Questions about Passport Applications

If you need to apply for a passport, here are some specific questions you might have about the application process:

• What form do I need to fill out to apply for a passport?
• What documents are required when submitting a passport application?
• Can I apply for a passport online?
• Do I need to provide a photo for my passport application?
• What is the process for renewing my passport?
• What is the process for replacing a lost or damaged passport?
• Can I apply for a passport for someone else?
• What is the cost of a Canadian passport?
• Do I need to pay for expedited processing?

Questions about Passport Processing and Fees

If you’ve already applied for a passport, you might have questions about processing times and fees:

• How long will it take to process my passport application?
• Can I track the status of my passport application?
• What is the processing time for expedited passport services?
• How much does it cost to renew a passport?
• What is the fee for replacing a lost or damaged passport?
• Are there additional fees for expedited processing or urgent travel needs?

Overall, applying for a passport in Canada can seem overwhelming, but it is easy if you follow the right steps and have the necessary documentation. Whether you’re applying for a new passport, renewing an old one, or dealing with a lost or damaged passport, this guide covers all the necessary information to make the process as smooth as possible.

Did You Find What You Were Looking For?

Our goal is to provide a comprehensive guide for all passport services available in Canada. We hope that our guide has provided you with the information you need to apply for a passport, renew a passport, replace a lost or damaged passport, or access additional passport services. If you were unable to find what you were looking for, we would appreciate your feedback and suggestions for improvement. Please use the following resources to provide feedback or to contact the Passport Office:

Feedback and Suggestions for Improvement

If you have any feedback or suggestions for improving our passport guide, please let us know. We are committed to providing the best possible service to our users and we take user feedback seriously. You can provide feedback by:

• Sending an email to our feedback address
• Completing our online feedback form
• Contacting us on our social media channels

Contacting the Passport Office

If you have specific questions about your passport application or need to contact the Passport Office for any reason, please use the following resources:

• Passport Canada Call Centre: 1-800-567-6868 (in Canada) or 819-997-8338 (outside Canada)
• Passport Canada Website: https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/canadian-passports.html
• In-Person Service at a Passport Office: Use the Passport Canada Office Locator to find the nearest Passport Office to you

Thank you for using our passport guide. We hope that our guide has been helpful in navigating the passport application process in Canada. Safe travels!

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Passport Services Vary Across the Country

Applying for a passport can be a daunting task, and it is important to know that passport application services may vary across the country. Here is a breakdown of what to keep in mind depending on which region of Canada you are located in.

Service Standards in Western Canada

• In Western Canada, service standards for passport applications are generally consistent across the region.
• Passport applications for new and renewed passports can be submitted at any Passport Canada office or Service Canada Centre in the region.
• Renewal applications can also be submitted online to reduce wait times.

Service Standards in Central Canada

• Service standards for passport applications may vary depending on the province in Central Canada.
• Residents in Ontario and Quebec can apply for a passport at any Passport Canada office or Service Canada Centre.
• Residents in Manitoba, Saskatchewan, and Nunavut can apply for a passport at a Passport Canada office in their province or territory.

Service Standards in Eastern Canada

• Service standards for passport applications may vary depending on the province in Eastern Canada.
• Residents in Atlantic provinces can apply for a passport at any Passport Canada office or Service Canada Centre.
• Residents in Quebec can also apply for a passport through their local Service Quebec office.

Introduction to Varying Service Standards

It is important to note that service standards may change depending on the region and province, and it is best to check with your local Passport Canada office or Service Canada Centre for specific information about passport application services in your area.

Prioritizing Passport Applications in Canada

When applying for a Canadian passport, it is important to be aware of any circumstances that could require prioritization of your application. There are certain situations that can make your application more urgent, and the Canadian government has set up procedures to prioritize these cases.

Prioritizing Applicants with Urgent Travel Needs

If you have urgent travel plans, you may be able to request expedited processing for your passport application. This means that your application will be processed faster than normal, but additional fees may apply. To be eligible for expedited processing, you will need to provide proof of your travel plans, such as a flight itinerary or hotel reservation. Keep in mind that even with expedited processing, it may still take several weeks to get your passport, so be sure to plan accordingly.

Prioritizing Applicants with Special Circumstances

In addition to expedited processing for urgent travel needs, there are also procedures in place to prioritize passport applications for individuals with special circumstances. This can include situations such as medical emergencies, compassionate reasons, and other extenuating circumstances. To request priority processing, you will need to provide documentation supporting your situation and explain why you require special consideration for your passport application.

• Medical Emergencies: If you or a family member is experiencing a medical emergency that requires travel outside of Canada, you can request priority processing for your passport application. You will need to provide documentation from a medical professional confirming the need for urgent travel.
• Compassionate Reasons: If you have a family emergency, such as a death in the family, or other situation that requires urgent travel outside of Canada, you can request priority processing for your passport application. You will need to provide documentation supporting your situation.

Note that priority processing does not guarantee that your application will be approved, but it does ensure that it will be expedited for processing.

Passport Service Standards and Canadian Government Services

Passports are an essential part of travelling and the Canadian government is committed to providing efficient and effective passport services to its citizens. This commitment is evident in the government’s efforts to frequently review and improve passport services standards across different areas of government service delivery. These standards are designed to provide Canadians with up-to-date information and service options related to passport applications, renewals, and replacements. Passport Services and the Department of Justice and Emergency Services As part of its mandate to provide efficient passport services, the Canadian government works closely with the Department of Justice and Emergency Services to ensure that passport services are accessible and reliable.

This department is responsible for ensuring that passport processing times are met, passport security measures are in place, and passport application procedures are streamlined. Their collaboration has resulted in the implementation of online passport application services, which have greatly simplified the application process for Canadians. Passport Services and Transport and Infrastructure Canada Transport and Infrastructure Canada is another important government department that works in collaboration with passport services to ensure that passport applications are processed quickly and efficiently. This department is responsible for ensuring that passport services comply with Canadian transportation and infrastructure policies, as well as ensuring that passports are valid for travel purposes.

Passports are essential travel documents that allow Canadians to travel anywhere in the world and Transport and Infrastructure Canada plays a critical role in ensuring that Canadian passport holders can travel safely and securely. Passport Services and Canadian Passports and Travel and Tourism Canadian Passports and Travel and Tourism is another important area of government service delivery that works closely with passport services to ensure that Canadians can travel confidently and safely. Canadian Passports and Travel and Tourism are responsible for ensuring that passport application procedures are streamlined, fees are competitive, visa processing times are met, and passport validity periods are in line with international travel requirements. Canadian passports are recognized worldwide and Canadian Passports and Travel and Tourism work diligently to promote Canada as a safe and desirable travel destination.

Passport Services and Culture, History and Sport Canadian passport services also collaborate with Culture, History and Sport to ensure that Canadians have access to accurate and current travel information. Culture, History and Sport are responsible for ensuring that passport holders have access to cultural resources, historical information, and sports events that can enhance their travel experience. Passport services work closely with Culture, History and Sport to ensure that Canadians have access to up-to-date travel advisories and consular services while abroad. In summary, the Canadian government is committed to providing its citizens with efficient and effective passport services. These services are delivered in a collaborative manner, involving several government departments such as the Department of Justice and Emergency Services, Transport and Infrastructure Canada, Canadian Passports and Travel and Tourism, and Culture, History and Sport. These collaborative efforts ensure that Canadians have access to reliable and informative passport services, which allow them to travel safely and confidently throughout the world.

Passport Services and National Security and Defense

Passports services play an important role in national security and defense, as they are crucial for identifying individuals who cross international borders. Passport services in Canada work together with other government departments to enhance national security and defense.

Passport Services and Natural Resources and National Security

Passport services also have a key role in protecting natural resources while ensuring national security. The Canadian government provides different services to support these efforts, such as collecting information about travelers and their destinations, and updating databases that can help track potential security threats.

Efforts to Protect Natural Resources and National Security

• Collecting information about travelers and their destinations
• Updating databases that can help track potential security threats
• Monitoring travel trends and patterns to identify potential security risks

Passport Services and Itinerary Showing Proof of Travel

One of the ways that passport services contribute to national security and defense is through itineraries that show proof of travel. This can help identify individuals who have traveled to certain high-risk areas, and help prevent terrorism and other criminal activities.

Itinerary Showing Proof of Travel Best Practices

• Provide detailed travel itineraries that accurately reflect your travel plans
• Ensure that you have the necessary travel documents for transit through high-risk areas
• Be aware of any potential threats and take appropriate measures to mitigate them

Passport Services and Canadian Sport, Policing and Justice, and Emergencies

Passport services are also closely connected to Canadian sport, policing and justice, and emergencies. The Canadian government works to ensure that Canadian athletes can travel safely and securely to international sporting events, while also assisting police and justice agencies in their efforts to maintain national security and defend the country’s borders. In case of emergencies, passport services facilitate the safe return of Canadian citizens to the country.

Canadian Sport, Policing and Justice, and Emergencies Best Practices

• Ensure that all necessary paperwork and documentation is in order before traveling
• Be aware of any travel advisories or warnings issued by the government
• Stay informed about the changing security situation in your destination country