1. What is an Original Canadian Passport?
An original Canadian passport refers to the first passport issued to a Canadian citizen. This document allows Canadian citizens to travel internationally and serves as proof of identity and citizenship. For those applying for the first time, the Canadian government requires additional documentation compared to a passport renewal, verifying the applicant’s citizenship, identity, and eligibility.
2. Who is Eligible for an Original Canadian Passport?
To apply for an original Canadian passport, applicants must:
- Be Canadian citizens by birth, naturalization, or descent.
- Be able to provide proof of Canadian citizenship (such as a birth certificate or Canadian citizenship certificate).
- Provide a guarantor who can confirm the applicant’s identity.
- Meet identity verification and document requirements.
Canadian citizens of all ages, including infants and children, are eligible to apply for a passport.
3. Required Documents for an Original Canadian Passport
When applying for a Canadian passport for the first time, applicants need the following documents:
- Proof of Canadian Citizenship: A birth certificate (for those born in Canada) or a Canadian citizenship certificate.
- Proof of Identity: A government-issued ID, such as a driver’s license, health card, or any other official ID that shows your name, date of birth, and photo.
- Passport Photos: Two recent passport-sized photos that meet Canadian passport photo requirements.
- Completed Application Form: Passport application forms are available for both adults and children on the official Government of Canada website.
- Guarantor Declaration: A guarantor must confirm your identity, sign your photos, and fill out a section of the application.
For child passports, additional documents, such as proof of guardianship or parental consent, may be required.
4. How to Apply for an Original Canadian Passport
Step 1: Gather Required Documents
Collect all necessary documents, including proof of citizenship, identity, passport photos, and a guarantor’s declaration.
Step 2: Fill Out the Application Form
Download and complete the passport application form from Passport Canada. Ensure all information is accurate to avoid delays.
Step 3: Have Your Guarantor Sign the Application
The guarantor must sign your passport photos and complete a section of the application, verifying your identity.
Step 4: Submit the Application
Submit your application in person at a Passport Canada office, Service Canada location, or by mail. If you need the passport urgently, applying in person is recommended.
Step 5: Pay the Application Fee
Pay the application fee, which varies based on the passport’s validity period:
- 5-year passport: CAD $120 for adults
- 10-year passport: CAD $160 for adults
- Child passport: CAD $57
Step 6: Await Processing
Standard processing times vary between 10–20 business days for mail-in applications and 10 days or less for in-person applications. Expedited service is available for an additional fee.
5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can I apply for a Canadian passport if I don’t live in Canada?
A: Yes, Canadian citizens can apply for a passport from outside Canada by visiting the nearest Canadian embassy or consulate.
Q2: How long does it take to receive my first Canadian passport?
A: Standard processing takes 10–20 business days. Expedited services are available for an additional fee if you apply in person.
Q3: What if I don’t have a guarantor for my application?
A: You may need to use a Statutory Declaration in Lieu of Guarantor (Form PPTC 132), which must be signed in the presence of a Commissioner for Oaths, Notary Public, or another qualified official.
Q4: Is my Canadian passport proof of citizenship?
A: Yes, a passport serves as proof of Canadian citizenship; however, it must be valid to travel internationally.
Q5: How long is a Canadian passport valid?
A: Canadian passports are valid for 5 or 10 years for adults and 5 years for children under 16.