One of the main reasons people choose to become Canadian citizens—besides the stability and security it offers—is the opportunity to apply for a Canadian passport. It’s easy to see why. This passport is one of the most respected in the world thanks to its strong global mobility.
Canada’s passport currently ranks eight in the Henley Passport Index, offering visa-free access to 183 countries. So, if you love to travel, now is your chance to explore the world without limits.
But what exactly do you need to do to get one? Read on, and I’ll walk you through the process step by step.
How to apply for Canadian passport as an adult
It’s important to note that the Canadian passport application process for a child under 16 differs from that for adults. We’ll cover that later. For now, let’s focus on how to apply for a passport if you’re 16 or older.
The truth is, it’s a pretty simple process. If you’ve handled the citizenship application before, this will feel like a piece of cake.
But first, make sure you need to apply for a new passport, not a renewal. These are two separate processes.
Step 1: Gather all the required documents to apply for Canadian passport
First, collect all the documents the Government of Canada asks for. Take your time and check everything carefully. Make sure nothing is missing, everything is clear, and there are no mistakes. Any error can lead to delays, requests for additional proof, or even refusal.
Here’s what you need:
Proof of Canadian citizenship
Acceptable documents include your birth certificate or citizenship certificate. If you have a paper certificate, you must submit the original. If your certificate is electronic, print a copy and include it with your application.
A document proving your identity
This could be your ID, driver’s license, or another official document confirming your identity.
You can submit the original or a copy. But if you submit a copy, ensure that both sides are visible and that it is signed and dated by your guarantor or the certifying official.
Two identical passport photos
The photos must follow particular requirements:
- Taken within the last six months
- Sized 50 mm x 70 mm
- Your face must measure between 31 and 36 mm from your chin to your hairline.
- Color or black and white
- The photo must be sharp, clear, well-lit, and without shadows.
- Taken by a professional photographer or studio.
- Printed on high-quality photographic paper.
On the back of one photo, the photographer must write or stamp:
- The name of the studio or business.
- Full address
- The date the photo was taken.
Your guarantor must also sign one of the photos.
Step 2: Fill out the Canadian passport application form.
The PPTC 153 Form is the official application for a Canadian passport. I recommend filling it out on your laptop. Trust me—it’s much easier! Using your phone or tablet can cause errors, shift fields around, or even force you to start over.
Take your time when filling out the form. Work calmly and review everything as you go. A mistake can complicate the process or delay your application.
One crucial detail to note when filling out your Canadian passport application is that you do not complete the “Declaration of Guarantor” section. Your guarantor must fill it out. Also, in Section 8 — References — you must list two contacts who can confirm your identity.
What are the responsibilities of a guarantor, and who can be one?
A guarantor confirms your identity. They are not financially responsible for you and are not acting as your legal representative. Their only role is to certify that the information on your application is accurate.
The government uses this step to prevent fraud and ensure that the applicant is who they claim to be.
To be your guarantor, this person must:
- Be at least 18 years old.
- Have known you for at least two years
- Be a Canadian citizen and hold a valid five- or ten-year Canadian passport.
- Provide the passport information required on your application.
- Be available if the government needs to contact them.
Your guarantor must sign:
- Your Canadian passport application form.
- One of your passport photos.
- All copies of your supporting identity documents.
Who can you list as references?
Your references and guarantor serve similar purposes, but they are not the same. On your form, list two people who know you and can confirm that you are who you claim to be.
These two people must:
- Be at least 18 years old.
- Have known you for at least two years.
- Agree to let you use their name and contact information.
Important: Family members cannot be listed as guarantors or references.
Step 3: Submit your application and pay the fees.
Once you have everything ready, it’s time to submit your Canadian passport application. You can submit it in person or by mail. If you choose to mail it, use a certified or trackable courier service. This will shorten delivery time and protect your documents.
Before sending your application, pay the passport fees. The cost of a Canadian passport depends on the type of service you select and how quickly you need the passport.
Save the receipt when you pay. Include this receipt with your documents before submitting them to the passport office.
Step 4: Wait for your passport to arrive
Once you have submitted your application, documents, and payment, there is nothing left to do but wait. If everything is correct, your passport will be mailed directly to your home, unless you paid extra to pick it up in person. The processing time depends on the service option you chose.
Be prepared for the IRCC to contact you. They may ask for additional proof, clarification, or to speak with your guarantor or references. Don’t panic—this doesn’t automatically mean that something is wrong. Sometimes they need to verify a detail, which can extend processing time.
The good news is that Canadian passports are valid for 5 or 10 years. Once you have it, enjoy traveling the world at your leisure.
How to apply for a Canadian passport for a child
The passport application process for children under 16 can vary depending on whether the child is biological or adopted and where the application is submitted. Still, in general, the process is very similar to the one for adults.
Required documents for a child
- Proof of the child’s Canadian citizenship. This can be a long-form birth certificate from the province or territory where the child was born or a citizenship certificate.
- Proof of parentage or legal guardianship. Both parents must provide proof of parentage for every passport application.
- Any documents related to custody, decision-making responsibility, access, parenting time, or child mobility.
- Provide any valid Canadian passport or travel document previously issued to the child.
- Two identical passport photos of the child are also required. These photos must meet the exact requirements of adult passport photos. And one of the photos must be signed by the guarantor.
Very important (for both adults and children): All documents must be in English or French. If a document is in another language, you must translate it.
Canadian passport application for a child
For a child under 16, complete the PPTC 155 Form. The child cannot fill out the form, so a parent or legal guardian must complete it. If both parents are together, either parent may complete the form. If the parents are separated, the custodial parent must complete the form.
However, all parents or legal guardians must sign the application, no matter who fills it out.
How to send your child’s passport application
Just like with an adult application, you can submit a child’s passport application by mail or in person. The cost depends on the service type and how quickly you need the passport.
After processing is complete, IRCC will mail the passport to you. You can also pick it up in person if you pay the additional fee.
Summing up…
To apply for a Canadian passport, you must gather the necessary documents and complete the application form. You must also obtain a guarantor and two references, and pay the applicable fees. If the applicant is a child, you must also provide proof of parentage or legal guardianship, as well as custody documents when necessary.
Always double-check everything before submitting your application. Sit down calmly to complete the application. Read each question carefully, answer slowly, and use the official guide for assistance.
Also, review all your documents. Confirm that you have all the necessary documents and that the information is accurate. Any mistake can delay your application or cause problems later on.
However, if you follow all the steps, everything should go smoothly. Soon, you’ll have your Canadian passport and be able to travel visa-free to more than 180 countries.
If you have any questions about applying for a Canadian passport, citizenship or what comes next, leave them in the comments. We’re here to help.