Welcome to Canada and heartfelt congratulations on passing the Canadian citizenship test! You are now eligible to begin the application process for your first Canadian passport. To kick start this journey, it’s crucial to have a set of documents ready, with your citizenship certificate among them.

With your passport, you’re just one step away from enjoying the freedom to travel in and out of the country, whether it’s to reconnect with family and friends in your home country or embark on exciting explorations of Canada’s neighbouring regions.

The application for a Canadian passport does involve meeting specific eligibility criteria, and to assist you through this process, we’ve prepared this guide. Keep reading to discover the steps for your application!

How Can I Apply For a Canadian Passport?

There are a few different ways that you can apply for your new Canadian passport, depending on your specific situation. Whether or not you require your passport as quickly as possible, or if you have time to wait for the easiest method, called ‘standard’, will depend on how you should do the application process.

Standard Passport Application

You have a few options to submit your passport application in Canada. You can visit a Service Canada Centre, where the processing typically takes approximately 20 business days. Alternatively, you can go to a Passport Office, which usually has a shorter processing time of about 10 business days. Be sure to check with your local facility to determine if an appointment is necessary or if you can simply walk in. Another option is to apply by mail, which generally requires 20 business days for processing. However, it’s crucial to ensure that you have all the requisite documentation to secure the approval of your application.

Express Passport Application

If you require your passport within 2-9 business days, this is your best option, however, it does come with some strings attached- you may need to have proof that you need the passport, plus pay the additional fees, alongside ensuring you can get to a passport office with an express pick-up service. This option is by appointment or walk-in, again, it’s suggested to check with your closest passport office and have all of the required documentation.

Urgent Passport Application

You may be able to get an urgent passport if you have the proof that you need the passport. Some ways to prove that you need an urgent passport is by providing the following documentation

An airline, bus, or train ticket.
- If travelling by car, a written statement elucidating the reasons for your travel urgency.
A comprehensive travel itinerary demonstrating proof of payment.
Documentation verifying an illness or a family member’s death that necessitates your immediate travel.
A written statement, either from you or a third party, detailing the reasons compelling the urgent passport request, such as legal, financial, or residency requirements.

What Documentation Do I Need to Apply For My First Passport?

Before starting your application process for your first Canadian passport, you should first ensure that you have all of the documentation needed. This includes the following.

Proof of Canadian Citizenship

You must prove your citizenship by using your Canadian citizen certificate. This can be the original paper certificate or a printed e-certificate. You will also be required to prove your identity which should be signed by a guarantor. You will also need two identical passport photos. Furthermore, you may need to provide a refugee travel document or certificate of identity. Please refer here to get the full requirements.

Find 2 References

Your two references must be included in your application and must have known you for at least 2 years and they cannot be a family member.

Submit & Pay

Once you have completed and signed the passport application form, you can now book an appointment online or choose to walk into a Service Canada Centre or a Passport Office. You must ensure you have the forms ready and all documentation required attached.

Don’t forget to get your passport photos taken! Click here to learn more about it.

Do I Need The Original Copy Of My Citizen Certificate To Apply For a Passport?

Yes, you will need to present the original paper certificate and not a photocopy. If you are presenting your citizen certificate as an e-certificate, you must ensure it is printed and attached to your application.

How Can I Access My Citizen Certificate (E-Certificate)?

Canadian e-certificate Citizenship Certificates are always accessible online, however, to access it for the first time, you will need a letter with instructions on how to download it. Please be aware that you will be required to create an IRCC portal account if you require access after the first initial download of your certificate. You can find more information on the government website here.