Feeling restless? Want to spread your wings and see the world?

You'll need a passport for that!

In order to get your hands on a passport, the Canadian government will need some information from you first, including proof of your Canadian citizenship.

Born in Canada

• birth certificate, or

• citizenship certificate

Born outside of Canada

• citizenship certificate,

• certificate of registration of birth abroad,

• certificate of naturalization, or

• certificate of retention of Canadian citizenship

You'll need to submit other documents as well.

• Application form found on the Government of Canada website or your local passport office

• Any valid travel documents issued in your name

• A document proving your identity

• Two identical passport photos (no smiling allowed!)

• Names and contact information of two references who have known you at least two years

• Name of a guarantor if this is your first passport

  • Their signature is required on your application, one of your passport photos, and on all copies of your supporting identification documents

Submission

You can submit your application and documents in two different ways:

1. By mail

   • It's suggested that you use a certified courier or traceable mail service to reduce the delivery time of your application and help protect your documents.

2. By appointment at your local passport office (if applicable)

   • You must be 16 years of age or older.

   • If you're unable to submit it yourself, you can have someone do it for you.

Fees

Your fees will depend on whether you are getting the 5 year or the 10 year passport.

• 5 year = $120

• 10 year = $160

If you have $160 at your disposal, it'll pay off in the long run to get the 10 year passport.

Payment

To pay, you can use your debit card, credit card, or certified cheque. Cash and personal cheques are not accepted!

To prepare for your application: