canadian travel document application form

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3. Apply for a travel document if you’re outside Canada

Question & Answer

If your permanent resident card expires while you're outside Canada, you need to apply to a Canadian visa office or Visa Application Centre for a Permanent Resident Travel Document .

The application package includes:

• an instruction guide
• a document checklist
• the application form

You can use the Travel Document to prove your permanent resident status when returning to Canada. Once you're back in Canada, you can apply for a new permanent resident card.

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) will refuse to give you a Travel Document if they think you've lost your status as a permanent resident. This could happen if, for example, they think you've not met your residency obligation .

If IRCC refuses your application, you have 60 days to appeal that decision .

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How To Apply For A Travel Document In Canada

Published: November 1, 2023

Modified: January 3, 2024

by Annemarie Heyward

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Introduction

Welcome to the beautiful and diverse country of Canada! Whether you are a resident, a visitor, or a permanent resident in Canada, there may be instances when you need to travel outside the country. In such cases, it is essential to have a valid travel document that allows you to re-enter Canada. This article will guide you through the process of applying for a travel document in Canada.

Travel documents in Canada serve as proof of identity and citizenship for individuals who do not have a valid Canadian passport. These documents are issued by the Government of Canada and are necessary for those who are unable to obtain a passport from their home country.

The process of applying for a travel document in Canada is relatively straightforward but can vary depending on your specific circumstances. It’s important to familiarize yourself with the eligibility requirements, types of travel documents available, application process, required supporting documents, fees, processing times, and pick-up or delivery options before beginning your application.

Applying for a travel document may seem overwhelming, but rest assured, the Canadian government has streamlined the process to make it as efficient and user-friendly as possible. By following the instructions outlined in this article and providing all required documents, you can smoothly navigate through the application process and obtain your travel document without any hassle.

Now let’s delve into the details of the eligibility requirements and the types of travel documents available to determine which one is suitable for your situation.

Eligibility Requirements

Before you begin the application process for a travel document in Canada , it’s important to ensure that you meet the eligibility requirements set by the Government of Canada. The eligibility criteria may vary depending on the type of travel document you are applying for. Here are some general eligibility requirements:

• You must be in Canada at the time of application.
• You must be a Canadian citizen, a permanent resident, or have refugee status in Canada.
• You must not be eligible for a Canadian passport, either because you do not hold citizenship from another country or your home country does not have diplomatic relations with Canada.
• You must have a valid reason for travel, such as a medical emergency, essential business, or family obligations abroad.
• You must not be under a removal order, deportation order, or have any other legal barriers that prevent your return to Canada.

It is crucial to thoroughly review the eligibility requirements specific to the travel document you are applying for. Different travel documents have additional criteria that must be met, such as the Refugee Travel Document, which requires proof of refugee status in Canada.

It’s important to note that meeting the eligibility requirements does not guarantee the approval of your travel document application. The decision is ultimately made by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) based on the information and supporting documents you provide.

If you are unsure about your eligibility or have any questions regarding the requirements, it is recommended to consult with an immigration lawyer or seek guidance from the nearest IRCC office. They will be able to provide you with accurate and up-to-date information specific to your situation.

Now that you are aware of the eligibility requirements, let’s move on to exploring the different types of travel documents available in Canada.

Types of Travel Documents

Canada offers different types of travel documents to cater to various circumstances. The type of travel document you need will depend on your immigration status and the purpose of your travel. Here are the most commonly used travel documents:

• Permanent Resident Travel Document (PRTD): This document is for permanent residents of Canada who do not have a valid permanent resident card (PR card) and are traveling outside of the country. It allows them to return to Canada after their trip.
• Refugee Travel Document: This document is issued to individuals who have been granted refugee status in Canada and need to travel outside of the country. It enables them to return to Canada and serves as a proof of their protected status.
• Certificate of Identity: This document is for individuals who are in Canada and cannot obtain a national passport or travel document from their home country. It is issued to stateless individuals, individuals with unresolved identity issues, and others who meet the eligibility criteria.
• Convention Travel Document: This document is issued to individuals who hold refugee status in Canada and need to travel internationally. It enables them to travel to and from countries that have agreed to recognize the document as a valid form of travel identification.
• Single Journey Travel Document: This temporary travel document is issued to foreign nationals in Canada who are in urgent need to travel but do not have a valid passport or other travel document issued by their home country. It is valid for a specific journey and cannot be used for multiple trips.

It’s crucial to select the correct type of travel document based on your circumstances. Choosing the wrong document can lead to delays or complications when traveling, so ensure that you carefully review the requirements and purpose of each travel document.

Now that you know the types of travel documents available, let’s move on to the application process for obtaining these documents.

Application Process

Applying for a travel document in Canada involves a straightforward process that can be completed online or through mail. Here are the steps involved in the application process:

• Download or obtain the application forms: Visit the official website of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) to download the application forms for the specific travel document you are applying for. Alternatively, you can request the forms by mail or pick them up from the nearest IRCC office.
• Complete the application forms: Fill out the application forms accurately and honestly. Make sure to include all necessary information and double-check for any errors or missing details. Be sure to read the instructions carefully to avoid any mistakes.
• Gather the required supporting documents: Review the document checklist provided with the application forms. Collect all the necessary supporting documents, such as proof of your identity, proof of your immigration status in Canada, proof of your reason for travel, and any additional documents specific to the travel document you are applying for.
• Pay the application fees: Pay the applicable fees for the travel document application. The fees can vary depending on the type of travel document and processing time chosen. Accepted payment methods include online payment, credit card, or certified cheque or money order.
• Submit the application: Submit your completed application forms, supporting documents, and payment to the designated IRCC office. You can either submit your application online or mail it to the appropriate address indicated on the application forms.
• Wait for processing: After submitting your application, it will be reviewed by IRCC. The processing time can vary depending on the type of travel document and the volume of applications. You can check the current processing time on the IRCC website.
• Attend an interview (if required): In some cases, IRCC may request an interview to further assess your application. If an interview is required, you will be notified by IRCC, and you must attend the scheduled interview at the designated location.
• Receive your travel document: Once your application is approved and processed, you will receive your travel document either by mail or at the designated office. It is important to ensure that you provide an accurate and up-to-date mailing address or select the appropriate pick-up location during the application process.

It’s essential to note that each travel document has specific application procedures and requirements. It is crucial to review the instructions and guidelines provided with the application forms to ensure a smooth and successful application process.

Now that you are familiar with the application process, let’s move on to the supporting documents required for your travel document application.

Supporting Documents

When applying for a travel document in Canada, it is crucial to provide the necessary supporting documents to validate your eligibility and reason for travel. The specific documents required will depend on the type of travel document you are applying for. Here are some common supporting documents that may be necessary:

• Proof of identity: Provide a copy of your valid identification document, such as a driver’s license, health card, or birth certificate. Ensure that the document includes your full name, date of birth, and a clear photograph.
• Proof of immigration status: Depending on your immigration status, you will need to provide supporting documents to demonstrate your current status in Canada. This may include a copy of your permanent resident card, refugee approval letter, or any other documents showing your legal status in Canada.
• Proof of reason for travel: Depending on the purpose of your travel, you will need to provide supporting documents to validate your reason for travel. This may include a letter explaining the purpose of your trip, supporting documents from the medical facility if it is for medical treatment, or any other relevant documents that justify your need to travel.
• Proof of relationship (if applicable): If you are traveling with a dependent or family member, you may need to provide supporting documents to establish the relationship, such as birth certificates, marriage certificates, or adoption papers.
• Passport-sized photographs: Include recent passport-sized photographs as per the specifications mentioned in the application form. The number of photographs required may vary depending on the travel document.
• Other specific documents: Depending on the type of travel document, additional specific documents may be required. For example, for a Refugee Travel Document, proof of refugee status and supporting documents from the Canadian Immigration and Refugee Board may be necessary.

It is essential to carefully review the document checklist provided with the application forms to ensure that all required supporting documents are included. Providing accurate and complete supporting documents will help facilitate the processing of your travel document application.

Now that you understand the importance of supporting documents, let’s move on to discussing the payment and fees associated with travel document applications.

Payment and Fees

When applying for a travel document in Canada, there are certain fees that need to be paid. The fees vary depending on the type of travel document you are applying for and the processing time you choose. Here is an overview of the payment and fee process:

First, it is important to determine the applicable fees for your specific travel document. You can find the current fee information on the official website of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).

Accepted payment methods may include online payment, credit card payment, or certified cheque or money order. Make sure to follow the instructions provided on the application forms or on the IRCC website for the specific payment methods accepted for your application.

When submitting your application online, you will usually be prompted to make the payment during the application process. Ensure that you have a valid credit card or other accepted payment method available to complete the payment online.

If you are submitting a paper application by mail, you will need to include the applicable fee as a certified cheque or money order. Make sure to address the payment correctly and enclose it securely with your application and supporting documents.

It’s important to note that fees are subject to change, so it is essential to verify the current fees on the official IRCC website or by contacting the nearest IRCC office before submitting your application.

In some cases, the payment of fees may be waived, such as for individuals who are unable to pay due to financial constraints. If you believe you qualify for a fee waiver, ensure to review the eligibility criteria provided by IRCC and follow the instructions for requesting a fee waiver.

By submitting the appropriate payment and fees, you ensure that your application will be processed in a timely manner.

Now that you are familiar with the payment and fees associated with travel document applications, let’s discuss the processing time for your application.

Processing Time

The processing time for travel document applications in Canada can vary depending on several factors, including the type of travel document and the volume of applications received by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). It is important to be aware of the approximate processing times to anticipate how long it may take for your application to be processed.

The current processing times for travel documents can be found on the IRCC website. It is recommended to regularly check for updates as processing times can change due to various factors, including seasonal fluctuations and increased application volumes.

When submitting your application, it is important to ensure that all required documents and information are included and accurate. Incomplete or incorrect applications may lead to processing delays or even rejection. Therefore, it is crucial to carefully review and double-check your application before submission.

It’s important to note that processing times are merely estimates and are not guaranteed. Factors such as the complexity of your application, the need for additional information or documentation, and the workload of the IRCC office can all impact the processing time.

In some situations, you may be able to request urgent processing of your travel document application. This may be applicable for emergency situations or compelling reasons for travel. If you believe your case warrants urgent processing, it is advisable to consult with an immigration lawyer or contact the nearest IRCC office for guidance on the process and requirements for requesting expedited processing.

While waiting for your application to be processed, regularly check the status of your application using the IRCC online tracking system. This will allow you to stay informed about the progress of your application and any updates or requests for additional information.

Be patient during the processing period, as it may take several weeks or even months. If you have any concerns or questions about the status of your application, it is best to contact the IRCC through the designated channels provided on their website or consult with an immigration professional for guidance.

Once your application has been processed and approved, you will be notified, and you can proceed to collect your travel document either by mail or at the designated office depending on your preference and the options available for your specific travel document.

Now that we have discussed the processing time, let’s move on to exploring the pick-up or delivery options for your travel document.

Pick Up or Delivery Options

After your travel document application has been processed and approved by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), you will have the option to either pick up your document in person or have it delivered to your designated address. Let’s explore the available pick-up and delivery options:

Pick-up in person: If you choose to pick up your travel document in person, you will typically be required to visit the designated IRCC office or a Canada Post location. When your document is ready for collection, you will receive a notification instructing you where and when to pick it up. Make sure to bring a valid piece of identification with you to prove your identity when collecting the document.

Delivery by mail: If you prefer to have your travel document delivered to your address, you can provide your mailing address during the application process. The document will be sent to you using a registered or traceable mail service. It is essential to provide an accurate and up-to-date mailing address to ensure successful delivery. Once the document is dispatched, you will receive a tracking number to monitor the progress and estimated delivery date.

When selecting your preferred pick-up or delivery option, consider factors such as convenience, accessibility, and any potential travel or time constraints. If you choose to have your document delivered by mail, ensure that someone will be available to receive it at the specified address.

It’s important to note that the availability of pick-up and delivery options may vary depending on your location and the type of travel document you have applied for. The instructions for pick-up or delivery will be provided to you by IRCC once your application is approved.

If you have any concerns or issues regarding the pick-up or delivery of your travel document, it is recommended to contact the designated IRCC office or consult the IRCC website for further guidance.

Now that you have a clear understanding of the pick-up and delivery options, let’s discuss how you can stay updated on the progress of your application.

Updates and Tracking

When you apply for a travel document in Canada, it is important to stay informed about the progress of your application. Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) provides various methods for you to receive updates and track your application. Here are the main ways to stay updated:

Online application status: You can check the status of your application online through the IRCC website. Once you have submitted your application, you will be given a unique application number. Using this number, you can log in to the IRCC website and track the progress of your application. The online system will provide updates as your application moves through the processing stages.

Email notifications: When you submit your application, you will receive an initial confirmation email from IRCC. Throughout the processing of your application, you may receive email notifications regarding any updates or additional information required. Make sure to provide a valid email address and check your inbox regularly to ensure you don’t miss any important communication from IRCC.

Mail correspondence: In certain cases, IRCC may communicate with you through traditional mail. This could include requests for additional documents or information, notification of an interview, or the final decision on your application. It is important to check your mailbox regularly and promptly respond to any requests to avoid delays or complications in the processing of your application.

IRCC client support: If you have any questions or concerns about the status of your application, you can contact the IRCC Client Support Centre. The contact information can be found on the IRCC website. Be prepared to provide your application number or other relevant information to facilitate a more efficient response to your inquiry.

It is crucial to stay proactive and regularly monitor the status of your application. This will allow you to promptly provide any requested information or documents and address any issues that may arise during the processing of your travel document application.

Remember to remain patient during the processing period, as it can vary depending on several factors. If you believe there has been an unreasonable delay or if you have not received any updates within a reasonable timeframe, you can contact the IRCC Client Support Centre for further assistance.

Now that you know how to stay updated on the progress of your application, let’s conclude our comprehensive guide on applying for a travel document in Canada.

Applying for a travel document in Canada is a necessary process for individuals who need to travel outside the country and ensure their safe return. By understanding the eligibility requirements, types of travel documents, application process, supporting documents, payment and fees, processing time, pick-up or delivery options, and updates and tracking, you can navigate through the application process with confidence.

Throughout this guide, we have covered the key aspects of applying for a travel document in Canada. It is important to carefully review and follow the instructions provided by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) to ensure a smooth and successful application.

Remember to ensure that you meet the eligibility requirements, choose the correct type of travel document for your situation, complete the necessary forms accurately, gather all required supporting documents, pay the applicable fees, and submit your application via the designated method. Stay patient and monitor the progress of your application through the available online tools or by staying in touch with IRCC.

Whether you are a permanent resident, refugee, or in a unique immigration situation, obtaining a travel document in Canada allows you to travel outside the country and return without any complications. It is crucial to plan ahead and apply for your travel document well in advance of your intended travel dates to ensure sufficient processing time.

If you have any specific questions or concerns about your travel document application, it is always recommended to seek guidance from an immigration professional or contact the IRCC Client Support Centre for accurate and up-to-date information.

We hope that this comprehensive guide has been informative and helpful in understanding the process of applying for a travel document in Canada. With the proper knowledge and preparation, you are now ready to embark on your travel adventure while ensuring a smooth return to the beautiful country of Canada.

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Visitor Visa checklist: Everything you need to apply and visit Canada

A visitor visa is needed to come to Canada as a tourist, or on a quick trip to visit family, or do business for individuals of many countries.

Anyone who is not a permanent or temporary resident of Canada (those with a work or study permit) will need a visitor visa to enter the country. However, citizens of certain countries do not need a visitor visa and can instead pursue an electronic Travel Authorization (eTA). eTAs are a more streamlined form or travel authorisation available to nationals of countries that have visa-free travel agreements with Canada. For answers to common questions on eTAs, click here .

Discover if You Are Eligible for Canadian Immigration

What is needed to get a Canadian visitor visa?

1. Complete the needed forms

Depending on whether you are applying inside or outside of Canada, you will need to fill in different forms. Those applying outside of Canada will require:

• Application for temporary resident visa (IMM 5257);
• Family information form (IMM 5707);
• Statutory declaration of common-law union (IMM 5409);
• Use of representative (IMM 5476)—Note this is only required if you have used the services of a representative, or if you are appointing or cancelling use of a representative; and
• Authority to release personal information to a designated individual (IMM 5475)—Note this form is only required if you authorise Immigration Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) or the Canadian Border Services Agency (CBSA) to release information from your case file to someone other than yourself (i.e.: a representative or authorised relative).

2. Collect the needed documentation

In addition to the above forms, applicants for a visitor visa will need to following documentation in support of their request:

• Receipt of fee payment;
• A photocopy of the information page of your passport, including: the passport number, issuance and expiry dates, and your photo, name, issue date, and place of birth;
• Two photos meeting the requirements of the visa application photograph specifications . On the back of these two photos applicants must write their name and date of birth. If applicants are required to provide biometric fingerprints and photo they do not have to attach these photos;
• Proof of financial support, proving that you can support yourself and any family member accompanying you while you are in Canada;
• Photocopy of your marriage license or certificate (if relevant);
• Letter explaining the purpose of your travel;
• Photocopy of your current immigration status (if your country of residence differs from the country of citizenship listed on your passport, you must provide proof of legal status in your country of residence);
• Minors travelling alone or with one parent must provide custody documents or a letter of authorisation from the other non-accompanying parent of a letter of authorisation signed by both parent or legal guardians; and
• Any other additional documents required by the responsible visa office in your region.

Note that application forms completed online must be completed and validated with the generation of a barcode. If completed on a computer, these barcodes will be automatically attached to the immigration forms, otherwise they must be printed and placed at the top of an application if applying by paper.

How to pay required fees and prove fee payment to IRCC

There are two kinds of fees that applicants for a visitor visa may need to pay. These are application processing fees, and biometric fees. Those who do not need to provide biometrics may be exempt from the second set of fees—find out if you need to give biometrics here .

Application processing fees for visitor visas are $100 CAD per person, and $500 CAD for a family (five or more people).

Biometrics fees on the other hand are $85 CAD per person, and $170 per family (two or more people).

These fees may be subject to change and cannot be refunded regardless of the decision reached on your application. In addition, the only accepted method to pay these fees is online.

After following the given instructions and completing the process, you must wait until an official IRCC receipt is issued with a barcode. Applicants are advised to save this file and attach a copy of it to their application.

How to provide proof of financial support

There are several documents that you can use to prove that you can support yourself and any dependents that accompany you while you are visiting Canada.

Some examples include cash, certified cheque, bank draft, or money order in a large enough amount to cover all reasonable expenses incurred during your stay in Canada.

In addition, written or verbal statements (which can be verified) can also be used, provided that they satisfy an officer that sufficient financial support from friends and/or family has been arranged and can cover reasonable incurable expenses during your stay.

Other documents include bank statements, a letter of employment or previous tax filing information,

How to write a “purpose of travel” letter

All foreign nationals entering Canada must be able to satisfy an officer at their time of entry that they have legitimate reasons to enter and reside in Canada. In the context of a visitor visa, this can often also include proving that you (the foreign national) will leave Canada once the period of your authorised stay expires.

In some cases, visitor visa applicants may also need a letter of invitation from a Canadian citizen or permanent resident .

Applying with family members

Visitor visa applicants wishing to bring their family with them on their trip to Canada must complete an application form for each family member. All applications may be submitted together online or at the VAC where you will send your application on paper. A single receipt may also be given for all included applications.

Lastly all family members and dependents must meet all requirements for temporary residence in Canada.

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On-line appointment booking system - detailed instructions: global affairs canada, standardized services, passport and citizenship, adult passport application (age 16 or over).

For an adult passport application, you will have to provide the following documents:

• A completed Adult General Passport application form (PPTC 040) .
• Two identical passport photos taken by a photographer in the last 6 months, one of which must be signed on the back by the guarantor. The name and complete address of the photographer and the date the photos were taken must be included on the back of one of the photos. Please read carefully the full requirements concerning the format of the photos. Visit the Ask Travel website to find a list of photographers near your location.
• The Statutory Declaration in lieu of Guarantor , if you do not have an eligible guarantor in the country to sign your passport application. Note that this declaration (which is not available online) must be signed before a Consular Officer, and that the references indicated on this form must differ from those on the Passport application form. You are being asked to provide a total of four references , whom we must be able to contact on the phone prior to issuing your travel document.
• Valid, government-issued identification containing photo, personal information and a signature or photocopies thereof, if available. Please consult the Government of Canada website for more information on ID requirements.
• Original proof of Canadian citizenship , i.e. a Canadian birth certificate or Certificate of Canadian Citizenship. If the original of this document is not with you but available to someone, please ask them to bring it, along with their own personal ID, to a passport service location in Canada or a Government of Canada issuing office abroad. The document will be validated there and transmitted to us via secure electronic channels to form part of your application.
• Any valid Canadian travel document issued in your name.
• Have changed your name;
• Are replacing a lost or stolen passport;
• Want to omit your place of birth on your passport;
• Request a change in sex designation on your passport.

All documents must be submitted in either French or English. If a document is in another language, an official translation must be provided.

Important : Your application will not be processed if you do not have all the applicable required documents listed above. We also invite you to PAY ONLINE before you apply for a passport or to pay the administrative fee for lost or stolen passports.

Please visit Ask Travel for additional information specific to the Government of Canada office abroad you will be visiting.

Adult passport application (simplified renewal)

For an adult passport application, you will have to provide the following:

• A completed Adult Simplified Renewal Passport application form (PPTC 482) .
• Your most recent Canadian passport (if it has a valid visa in it, indicate on the application that you would like your original passport returned to you).
• Two identical passport photos taken by a photographer in the last 6 months, one of which must be signed on the back by the guarantor. The name and complete address of the photographer and the date the photos were taken must be included on the back of one of the photos.  Please read carefully the full requirements concerning the format of the photos. Visit the Ask Travel website to find a list of photographers near your location.
• Two references who have known you for at least two years and are not family members.

Important : Your application will not be processed if you do not have all the required documents listed above. We also invite you to PAY ONLINE before you apply for a passport or to pay the administrative fee for lost or stolen passports.

Child passport application (0-16 years of age)

For a child passport application, you will have to provide the following documents:

• A completed Child application form (PPTC 042) , signed by each legal parent or guardian.
• Original proof of your child's Canadian citizenship , i.e. a Canadian birth certificate or Certificate of Canadian citizenship. If the original of this document is not with you but available to someone, please ask them to bring it, along with their own personal ID, to a passport service location in Canada or a Government of Canada issuing office abroad. The document will be validated there and transmitted to us via secure electronic channels to form part of your application.
• Proof of parentage or proof of legal guardianship (if applicable).
• All documents that refer to the custody of, mobility of, or access to the child .
• Any valid Canadian travel document issued in the child’s name.
• The Statutory Declaration in lieu of Guarantor , if you do not have an eligible guarantor in the country to sign your child’s passport application. Note that this declaration (which is not available online) must be signed before a Consular Officer, and that the references indicated on this form must differ from those on the Passport application form. You are being asked to provide a total of four references , whom we must be able to contact on the phone prior to issuing your child’s travel document.

Important : Your application will not be processed if you do not have all the applicable required documents listed above. Please note that only one passport application will be accepted for this type of appointment. If you wish to submit more than one child passport application, please book a family passport application appointment.

We also invite you to PAY ONLINE before you apply for a passport or to pay the administrative fee for lost or stolen passports.

Family passport application

Ensure that the appropriate forms are completed for each applicant in advance of your family appointment:

• Adult General Passport application form (PPTC 040) .
• Adult Simplified Renewal Passport application form (PPTC 482) .
• Child application form (PPTC 042) , signed by each legal parent or guardian.

For each applicant , the following documents are required:

• Original proof of Canadian citizenship , i.e. a Canadian birth certificate or Certificate of Canadian Citizenship. If the original of this document is not with you but available to someone, please ask them to bring it, along with their own personal ID, to a  passport service location in Canada or a Government of Canada issuing office abroad. The document will be validated there and transmitted to us via secure electronic channels to form part of your application.
• Any valid Canadian travel document issued in the applicant’s name.

For each child applicant (0-16 years of age) , the following additional documentation is required:

If an applicant does not have an eligible guarantor in the country to sign the passport application, a Statutory Declaration in lieu of Guarantor must also be submitted. Note that this declaration (which is not available online) must be signed before a Consular Officer, and that the references indicated on this form must differ from those on the Passport application form. A total of four references , whom we must be able to contact on the phone prior to issuing your travel document, are required when the Statutory Declaration in lieu of Guarantor is submitted with a passport application.

Additional documents may be required if you, or one of your family members:

Important : Your applications will not be processed if you do not have all the applicable required documents listed above. We also invite you to PAY ONLINE before you apply for a passport or to pay the administrative fee for lost or stolen passports.

Passport and citizenship application for minors (under 2 years)

For a passport and citizenship application for minors (under 2 years), you will have to provide the following documents:

• A completed Child passport application form (PPTC 042) , signed by each legal parent or guardian.
• A citizenship certificate form with all applicable documents. Please download the comprehensive application package from the Government of Canada website , which contains a detailed Instruction Guide. Ensure you consult the checklist of all required documents before arriving to your appointment.
• The receipt confirming submission of the citizenship application (the citizenship application fee must be paid to the IRCC, through the Government of Canada website ).
• A Limited Validity Passport form (PPTC116) , available by request from your nearest Government of Canada office abroad.
• Two identical passport photos taken by a photographer in the last 6 months, one of which must be signed on the back by the guarantor.  The name and complete address of the photographer and the date the photos were taken must be included on the back of one of the photos. Please read carefully the full requirements concerning the format of the photos. Visit the travel.gc.ca/asktravel website to find a list of photographers near your location.
• Two identical citizenship photos taken by a photographer in the last 6 months. Visit the travel.gc.ca/asktravel website to find a list of photographers near your location.
• A proof of purchase of travel if the application is justified by urgent upcoming travel.
• A letter explaining your situation if the application is justified by a residency requirement, accompanied by copies of the parents’ stay permits (if applicable).
• The original proof of Canadian citizenship from one of the parents.

Important: Your application will not be processed if you do not have all the applicable required documents listed above. We also invite you to PAY ONLINE before you apply for a passport or to pay the administrative fee for lost or stolen passports.

Application for a Citizenship Certificate for adults and minors (Proof of Citizenship)

Please refer to the IRCC website for information on applying for a Citizenship Certificate and to download the comprehensive application package . This package contains a detailed Instruction Guide with instructions for all the requirements for your application.

Ensure you consult the checklist of all required documents before arriving to your appointment.

Important : Your application will not be processed if you do not have all the applicable required documents listed in the checklist.

Other citizenship services

Visit the Ask Travel website for the instructions and requirements for any additional citizenship service offered by Government of Canada offices near your location. The services will not be provided if you do not have all the applicable required documents listed in AskTravel.

Passport pickup

Ensure to bring a piece of identification and your pick-up slip or email (if applicable) to your appointment.

Notarial services

Notarial and document services.

Please note that notarial service requests are assessed on a case by case basis. Notarial services may be provided only when there are no local options available and when resources are sufficient to respond to such requests.

Other Services to Canadian Citizen

General assistance to canadians.

Be prepared to provide the following documents during your appointment:

• Proof of citizenship (such as a citizenship card, or birth certificate);
• Valid, government-issued identification containing photo, personal information and a signature;
• Any additional documents related to your request for assistance.

Emergency assistance to Canadians

Local emergency numbers, the Government of Canada office contact numbers and emergency resources are all available at Ask Travel .

Canadians who require immediate emergency assistance abroad should contact the local emergency numbers. For emergency consular assistance, call the nearest embassy or consulate and follow the instructions. At any time, you may also contact the Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa.

Be prepared to present the following documents during your appointment:

• Valid, government-issued identification containing photo, personal information and a signature ;

Mission-specific services

Citizenship pickup.

Regular citizenship certificate processing time can take several months. Once our office has informed you that your document is ready for pickup, book an appointment. Bring a piece of identification to your appointment.

Renunciation of Canadian Citizenship

There are two application packages available to you. Choose one of the following depending on your situation:

• The Application to Renounce Canadian Citizenship is for an adult Canadian citizen who wants to give up citizenship .
• The Application to Renounce Canadian Citizenship – R7.1 should be used if you automatically got citizenship because of changes to the Citizenship Act in 2009 or 2015.

Read the appropriate guide carefully before you complete the application form. The fee for processing your application is not refundable, so make sure you are eligible to renounce your Canadian citizenship before you apply.

The application kit contains instructions. Read those instructions, and be sure to provide the required documents. If information or documents are missing, your application may be delayed.

Please read the instructions for application packages, fees, etc. concerning the renunciation of the Canadian citizenship.

Important : Your application will not be processed if you do not have all the applicable required documents listed above.

When applying from the United States

This is for urgent passport services ONLY. Government of Canada offices in the United States do not provide regular passport services. If you are travelling in 20 business days or more, you must send your application to Canada by mail.

The Ask Travel website lists the applicable fees, the accepted methods of payment, as well as photo studios near your location. Please be advised that additional fees apply for urgent services. Application forms and instructions are available on the Passport Program website here . Ensure all forms and documents are filled out before arriving for your appointment. An in-person appearance is required for all urgent passport services. We also invite you to PAY ONLINE before you apply for a passport or to pay the administrative fee for lost or stolen passports.

In addition to all the required application documents, please ensure you bring with you:

• a piece of identification
• proof of travel in less than 20 business days or proof of a residency requirement

No citizenship or regular passport services are provided at any Government of Canada offices located in the United States.

Passport applications must be sent to Canada by mail . You can find the information, forms and fees by visiting Ask Travel .

Citizenship services information can be found on the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada website.

If you require a passport urgently, contact the Canadian Citizen Services Contact Centre at 1-844-880-6519 or [email protected] . Please be advised that additional fees apply for urgent services.

Notarial Services

Document pickup.

Only book an appointment our office has informed you that your document is ready for pickup. Bring a piece of identification to your appointment.

If you have any questions, please visit Ask Travel for additional information specific to the Government of Canada office abroad you will be visiting.

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A visa is an official document, usually stamped or glued inside a passport, giving permission from a foreign authority for you to enter a country.

Visas are issued by foreign government offices in Canada . Contact your destination’s embassy or consulate in Canada well before you plan to leave on your trip to find out if you need a visa to enter the country or stay for a longer period of time. Requirements, fees and processing times vary, depending on the country and type of visa you need. The most common categories are business, work, student and tourist visas. 

Remember that representatives from the country to which you are travelling need to see your passport before issuing a visa. If you cannot visit the foreign government office in person and must mail your passport, use secure mail services and enclose a stamped, self-addressed return envelope.

Visa requirements

Before your departure, consult the Travel Advice and Advisories for destination-specific visa information. You will almost certainly need a visa if you plan to remain in a foreign country for a longer period (usually more than 90 days).

Special and diplomatic passport holders should verify all visa requirements for each of their destinations, as they may differ from those that apply to regular passport holders.

Some countries will issue a visa upon your arrival, but it is not a common procedure. Visas must be obtained before leaving Canada. You may be denied entry if you do not have a visa when you arrive in a country that requires one.

You are responsible for ensuring that your passport contains empty visa pages. If the pages of your passport have become filled with visas or entry and exit stamps, apply for a new passport.

Visa renewals or change of status

To extend your stay in a country beyond the period permitted by the visa you currently hold, or to change the status of your visa (for example, from a tourist visa to a work visa), contact your destination’s immigration authorities while you are in the country.