Step-by-Step Guide: How to Apply for a Passport in Canada?
Applying for a Canadian passport for the first time can seem difficult, but the process becomes much easier when you know the eligibility requirements, documents, passport photo rules, application forms, fees, submission methods and processing times.
A Canadian passport is an official travel document issued to Canadian citizens for international travel. If you already have an adult Canadian passport, you may be eligible to renew it instead of applying for a new passport.
This step-by-step guide explains how to apply for a passport in Canada, including the documents you need, passport fees, application methods, processing times, urgent services, common mistakes and frequently asked questions.
Who Is Eligible to Apply for a Canadian Passport?
Canadian citizens can apply for a Canadian passport. The application process depends on the type of passport service you need.
You may be applying for:
- A new adult passport
- A child passport
- An adult passport renewal
- A replacement for a lost or stolen passport
- A replacement for a damaged passport
- A passport while living outside Canada
If you already have an adult Canadian passport, check whether you qualify for passport renewal before submitting a new passport application. Renewal may be simpler than applying for a new adult passport.
For a new adult passport application in Canada, you generally need:
- Proof of Canadian citizenship
- Acceptable identification
- Two passport photos
- A guarantor
- Two references
- A completed application form
- The applicable passport fee
How to Apply for a Passport in Canada: Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Determine Which Passport Application You Need
Before completing any paperwork, determine which passport application applies to your situation.
If you are applying for your first adult Canadian passport, you will generally need the application for a new adult passport. If you already have an adult Canadian passport, you may be eligible for renewal.
Do not automatically apply for a new passport simply because your previous passport has expired. First, check whether you meet the requirements for renewal.
The Government of Canada provides different forms depending on the passport service you need. Always use the latest official application form and instructions.
Why Is Choosing the Correct Application Important?
Using the wrong form or application process can result in delays. Before submitting your application, confirm that you are using the correct form for your situation.
Step 2: Provide Proof of Canadian Citizenship
Proof of Canadian citizenship is one of the most important requirements when applying for a Canadian passport.
Depending on your circumstances, acceptable proof may include:
- A Canadian birth certificate
- A Canadian citizenship certificate
- Other documents accepted by the Canadian passport program
If you have a paper citizenship certificate, check the current requirements regarding whether the original document must be provided. If you have an electronic citizenship certificate, follow the government’s instructions for submitting a printed copy.
Case Study: First-Time Adult Passport Applicant
For example, Sarah is a Canadian citizen applying for her first adult passport. She has her Canadian citizenship certificate, acceptable identification and passport photos.
Instead of submitting her application immediately, Sarah first checks the latest passport requirements and confirms that her citizenship document is acceptable. She then prepares the remaining documents and reviews the complete application.
This type of preparation can help reduce the risk of an incomplete application.
Step 3: Prepare an Acceptable Identity Document
You also need an acceptable identity document when applying for a new adult Canadian passport.
Depending on the document and application method, you may need to provide the original document or a copy of both sides. Certain photocopies may also need to be signed and dated by your guarantor or signing official.
Your identity document should contain information that can be used to verify who you are.
If your legal name has changed, you may also need additional documentation to support the name change.
Important Tip
Not every identification document is automatically accepted for a Canadian passport application. Check the current Government of Canada requirements before submitting your documents.
Step 4: Get Two Canadian Passport Photos
Passport photos are an essential part of a Canadian passport application.
For a new adult passport application, you generally need two identical passport photos that meet Canadian passport photo requirements.
It is recommended that you have your photographs taken by a professional photographer or business familiar with Canadian passport photo specifications.
The photographer must also provide the required information on the back of one photo.
What Should You Check on Your Passport Photos?
Before submitting your application, make sure your photographs meet the current requirements for:
- Photo size
- Background
- Facial expression
- Lighting
- Head position
- Photographer information
- Identical photographs
- Overall Canadian passport photo standards
Avoid submitting casual photographs or photos that do not meet the official requirements.
Why Are Canadian Passport Photos Important?
An incorrect or unacceptable passport photo can cause an application to be delayed or returned for correction. Getting the photos right before submitting your application can help avoid unnecessary problems.
Step 5: Find a Guarantor
A new adult Canadian passport application generally requires a guarantor.
A guarantor helps confirm information about your identity and application. Guarantors must meet specific eligibility requirements, so check the latest Government of Canada rules before asking someone to act as your guarantor.
In certain eligible situations, an alternative process involving a signing official and statutory declaration may be available.
Because the guarantor requirements can be important to the application, arrange this before submitting your completed passport application.
Step 6: Choose Two Eligible References
A new adult passport application also requires two references.
References are different from a guarantor. Make sure the people you choose meet the current requirements and that their contact information is accurate.
Before submitting your application, check that:
- Their names are correct
- Their contact information is current
- They meet the eligibility requirements
- They know they may be contacted
Incorrect or incomplete reference information can result in unnecessary delays.
Step 7: Complete the Canadian Passport Application Form
Once your documents are ready, complete the appropriate Canadian passport application form.
The Government of Canada provides official passport application forms through Canada.ca. Follow the instructions carefully and use the current version of the form.
When completing the application, you may need to provide information such as:
- Full legal name
- Date and place of birth
- Current address
- Previous passport information, if applicable
- Canadian citizenship information
- Employment or occupation information
- Emergency contact information
- Reference information
- Guarantor information
If the application gives you a choice between a five-year and 10-year passport, make sure you select the option you want.
Answer
To get a Canadian passport, confirm your eligibility, prepare proof of Canadian citizenship and acceptable identification, obtain two compliant passport photos, complete the correct application form, arrange your guarantor and references, pay the applicable fee and submit your application using the appropriate method.
Step 8: Review Your Application Before Submission
Before submitting your Canadian passport application, carefully review every section.
Check that:
- Your name is spelled correctly
- Your date of birth is correct
- Your address is current
- Your citizenship information is accurate
- Your references are complete
- Your guarantor section is properly completed
- Your passport photos meet the requirements
- All required documents are included
- You have signed wherever required
- Your payment information is correct
A complete application is important because processing depends on the government receiving the required application, supporting documents, photographs and payment.
Step 9: Submit Your Canadian Passport Application
The appropriate submission method depends on your application type and how quickly you need your passport.
Eligible applicants in Canada may have options to submit applications:
- In person at a passport office
- At certain Service Canada locations
- By mail
- Through other available government application services, where eligible
Processing standards can differ depending on where and how you submit your application.
For regular applications, current government service standards may include:
- 10 business days for eligible applications submitted in person at a passport office or certain Service Canada locations offering 10-day service
- 20 business days for applications submitted through regular Service Canada Centres, eligible outreach locations, by mail or through applicable online services
Mailing time is not included in these processing standards.
Always check the latest Government of Canada instructions before submitting your application.
Step 10: Pay the Canadian Passport Fee
The cost of a Canadian passport depends on the passport type and the service you choose.
Passport fees increased on March 31, 2026. Current standard fees for applications made in Canada include:
Passport Type Current Fee
Adult passport – 10 years $163.50 CAD
Adult passport – 5 years $122.50 CAD
Child passport – 5 years $58.50 CAD
Additional fees may apply for services such as:
- Express processing
- Urgent processing
- Passport pickup
- Replacement of a lost or stolen passport
Passport fees can change, so check the current Government of Canada fee schedule immediately before applying.
Step 11: Choose Regular, Express or Urgent Passport Service
If your international trip is still several weeks or months away, regular processing may be suitable.
If you need your passport sooner, Canada offers faster services for eligible applications.
Express Passport Service
Express pickup generally has a service standard of 2 to 9 business days, depending on eligibility and service availability.
Urgent Passport Service
Urgent pickup is generally intended for applicants who need their passport by the end of the next business day.
Applicants must use a passport office that provides urgent service and may need to provide proof explaining why the passport is urgently required.
Case Study: Traveller With an Upcoming Flight
David has an international flight in four days, but he does not yet have his passport.
Instead of submitting a regular application and hoping it arrives before his flight, David checks the available express and urgent passport services. He reviews the eligibility requirements and prepares proof of his upcoming travel.
The key lesson is simple: If you already know your travel date, do not wait until the last minute to apply for your passport.
Step 12: Track Your Canadian Passport Application
After submitting your application, you may be able to check the status of your Canadian passport application online.
Processing generally begins once the government has received the required application, documents, photographs and payment.
The actual processing time can vary depending on:
- Whether your application is complete
- Whether documents need additional verification
- Whether additional information is required
- The application method you selected
- The service you requested
Keep your application details and payment information in a safe place until the process is complete.
Step 13: Receive Your Canadian Passport
Once your passport has been processed, it may be mailed to you unless you selected and paid for an eligible pickup service.
Delivery time can vary depending on your location and the delivery method.
If you submitted original documents, they may be returned separately from your passport.
When you receive your passport, carefully check the information.
Verify:
- Your name
- Date of birth
- Place of birth
- Passport number
- Expiry date
- Photograph
If you notice an error, contact the appropriate passport authorities promptly.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Canadian Passport?
The processing time for a Canadian passport depends on where and how you apply.
For applications submitted in Canada, regular service standards can be approximately:
- 10 business days for eligible applications submitted through certain in-person services
- 20 business days for applications submitted through regular Service Canada locations, eligible outreach services, by mail or applicable online services
Mailing time is additional.
Express service generally has a 2-to-9-business-day service standard, while urgent pickup may be available by the end of the next business day when the applicant meets the requirements.
Processing standards can change, so check the latest information before making international travel arrangements.
What Is Canada’s 30-Business-Day Passport Processing Guarantee?
Canada introduced a 30-business-day processing guarantee for eligible passport applications beginning April 1, 2026.
Under the guarantee, eligible applications that are not processed within 30 business days may qualify for a refund of the applicable passport application fee, subject to the government’s conditions and exceptions.
Applicants should check the current eligibility requirements before relying on the guarantee.
Can You Apply for a Canadian Passport Online?
Not every Canadian passport application can be completed entirely online.
The application method depends on the type of passport service you need. Applicants applying for a new adult passport should follow the official Government of Canada instructions and use the correct application form and submission method.
Always download current passport forms and instructions from the official Government of Canada website rather than relying on third-party websites.
Can Children Get a Canadian Passport?
Yes. Canadian children can have their own passports.
The application process and requirements for a child passport are different from those for an adult passport.
Parents or people with the relevant parental rights and responsibilities may need to provide supporting documents and complete the required application information.
If the child is involved in a separation, divorce or custody arrangement, additional documentation may be required.
Parents should review the current child passport requirements before submitting an application.
What Happens If Your Canadian Passport Is Lost or Stolen?
If your Canadian passport is lost or stolen, do not simply submit a standard passport application without reporting the loss or theft.
The Canadian passport program has specific procedures for passports that are:
- Lost
- Stolen
- Damaged
- Inaccessible
Additional fees may apply when replacing a valid passport that has been lost or stolen.
If your passport is lost or stolen while you are outside Canada, contact the nearest Canadian government office for instructions and assistance.
What Happens If Your Canadian Passport Is Damaged?
A damaged passport may not be accepted for international travel.
If your passport is damaged, check the Government of Canada’s replacement requirements before travelling. Depending on the circumstances, you may need to submit the damaged passport and additional supporting documents.
Do not assume that an airline or foreign border authority will accept a damaged passport.
Can Canadians Living Outside Canada Apply for a Canadian Passport?
Yes. Canadian citizens living outside Canada and the United States can apply for a Canadian passport through the appropriate Canadian government office abroad.
Processing requirements, fees and submission procedures may differ from applications made inside Canada.
The Government of Canada generally lists a service standard of approximately 20 business days for passport applications submitted outside Canada and the United States, excluding mailing time.
If you live abroad, contact the nearest Canadian embassy, high commission or consulate for instructions specific to your location.
Case Study: First Canadian Passport Application
Consider Mark, a Canadian citizen who has never had a passport.
His preparation could look like this:
Day 1: Mark determines that he needs a new adult passport.
Day 2: He gathers his proof of Canadian citizenship and acceptable identification.
Day 3: He gets two professional Canadian passport photos.
Day 4: He arranges his guarantor and two references.
Day 5: He completes the official application form and checks every section.
Day 6: He pays the applicable fee and submits his application using the appropriate service.
After submission: Mark keeps his application information and tracks the application while waiting for processing and delivery.
This example demonstrates why preparing the required documents before submission can make the Canadian passport application process easier to manage.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Applying for a Canadian Passport
Avoiding simple mistakes can help reduce unnecessary delays.
1. Using an Outdated Application Form
Passport forms and requirements can change. Always use the latest official application form.
2. Submitting Incorrect Passport Photos
Canadian passport photos must meet specific requirements. Use a professional photographer who understands Canadian passport photo standards.
3. Forgetting Required Documents
Review the entire application checklist before submitting your passport application.
4. Entering Incorrect Personal Information
Carefully check your:
- Name
- Date of birth
- Address
- Citizenship information
- Passport information
- Reference details
5. Choosing the Wrong Processing Service
If you need your passport urgently, check express or urgent services rather than assuming regular processing will meet your travel date.
6. Applying Too Close to Your Travel Date
Do not leave your passport application until the last minute. Remember that published processing times generally do not include mailing time.
Canadian Passport Application Checklist
Use this checklist before submitting your application:
- Confirm your eligibility
- Choose the correct passport application
- Prepare proof of Canadian citizenship
- Prepare acceptable identification
- Get two identical passport photos
- Arrange a guarantor, if required
- Choose two eligible references
- Complete the application form
- Review all information carefully
- Sign where required
- Pay the applicable passport fee
- Select the appropriate submission method
- Keep proof of submission
- Track your application
- Check your passport details when it arrives
FAQs
How Do I Apply for a Canadian Passport?
To apply for a Canadian passport, confirm your eligibility, gather proof of Canadian citizenship and acceptable identification, obtain two compliant passport photos, complete the correct application form, arrange your guarantor and references, pay the applicable fee and submit your application through the appropriate service.
How Much Does a Canadian Passport Cost?
As of March 31, 2026, the standard fee in Canada is $163.50 CAD for a 10-year adult passport, $122.50 CAD for a five-year adult passport and $58.50 CAD for a five-year child passport. Additional service fees may apply.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Canadian Passport?
Regular applications generally have service standards of 10 or 20 business days, depending on where and how you apply. Mailing time is not included.
How Can I Get a Canadian Passport Urgently?
Eligible applicants can request express or urgent service at locations that provide these services. Express service generally has a 2-to-9-business-day standard, while urgent pickup may be available by the end of the next business day if the requirements are met.
Do I Need Proof of Canadian Citizenship?
Yes. A new adult passport application requires proof of Canadian citizenship, such as an eligible Canadian birth certificate or citizenship certificate.
Do I Need Canadian Passport Photos?
Yes. A new adult passport application generally requires two identical passport photos that meet Canadian passport photo requirements.
Can I Renew My Canadian Passport Instead of Applying for a New One?
Possibly. If you already have an adult Canadian passport, you may qualify for renewal. Check the current renewal requirements before starting a new passport application.
Final Answer
Applying for a Canadian passport becomes easier when you complete each step in the correct order.
First, determine which passport service you need. Then prepare your proof of Canadian citizenship, acceptable identification, passport photos, guarantor and reference information. Complete the correct application form, carefully review your information, pay the applicable fee and submit the application using the appropriate method.
If you need your passport quickly, check whether express or urgent passport service is available. If you use regular processing, allow additional time for delivery because published processing standards do not generally include mailing time.
Most importantly, use the latest requirements, forms, fees and processing information provided by the Government of Canada. Passport requirements and fees can change, so checking the official information immediately before applying can help you avoid unnecessary delays.
With the correct documents, accurate information and enough time before international travel, you can complete your Canadian passport application more efficiently and avoid many common application mistakes.
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