How to Apply for a Canadian Passport
You can apply online (renewals only), by mail, or in person at a passport office or Service CanadaService Canada — The government service counter network for SIN applications, passports, EI, and other federal programs.Click for official info ↗ point. Adults pay $122.50 for a 5-year passport or $163.50 for a 10-year passport, plus fees (2026). Is this your first passport, or are you a new citizen? You need a guarantor and proof of citizenship. Renewals are simpler.
At a glance
- Cost:
- From $163.50 adult 10-year passport (2026 fees)
- Total time:
- 2–8 weeks (service varies by season)
- Steps:
- 6 steps
- Where to apply:
- canada.ca
Last reviewed October 2026 against official sources. Re-checked annually · next review due October 2027.
The Steps
Follow these in order
Each card shows the phase, expected time, and any cost. Data checked against official CAN sources(October 2026).
0 of 6 steps
- Before You Go 15 min
Choose your application type
Renewals use the simplified renewal form. This is for an adult passport issued within the last 15 years. Expiry does not matter; a passport expired more than a year ago still qualifies if issued within 15 years. You do not need citizenship documents or guarantor references. You only need photos, your old passport, and the form. First passports use the general form with full documents. So do adult applications after a long gap. Most adult renewals can now be done online at canada.ca/passport-online.
Click to mark as done
- Fill / Prepare 30 min
Get photos that follow the rules
Photos must be 50 mm × 70 mm. They must be taken within the last 6 months. Use a plain white or light background. Keep a plain, neutral face. Your head must measure 31–36 mm from chin to crown. The photographer stamps the back of one photo with their name, address, and the date. Most pharmacies and photo studios take passport photos for about $15.
Click to mark as done
- Fill / Prepare 45 min
Complete the form and references
The general application needs two references. They must have known you for at least 2 years. References must be 18 or older, have known you for at least 2 years, and must not be your guarantor or a close family member. They must not live at your address. You also give your personal history. Your guarantor signs the back of one photo and signs the declaration. Renewals skip most of this. Are you applying in person? Do not sign the form early. A passport agent must watch you sign it.
Click to mark as done
- Submit & Pay 1–2 hours
Submit online, by mail, or in person
For an online renewal, you upload digital photos and pay online. Paper applications go to a passport office (10-day service) or to a Service Canada receiving agent (20 business days). You can also apply by mail (20 business days plus mail time). Need it fast? Passport offices offer urgent pickup (next business day) for emergencies. You must show proof of travel.
Click to mark as done
- Wait 2–8 weeks
Track processing
Standard times change with demand. Check the current times on the IRCCImmigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada — The Canadian government department that runs Express Entry, work and study permits, PR cards, and citizenship.Click for official info ↗ processing page before you book travel. Since 1 April 2026, Canada promises this: a complete passport application is processed within 30 business days, or your fee is refunded automatically. Mailing time does not count. You can check your status online with your file number after about 10 business days. Peak season (spring to summer) adds weeks.
Click to mark as done
- Receive —
Receive and sign your passport
Your passport arrives by courier (you must sign for it) or by mail. Sign it in ink. Check the details right away. Spot an error? Send it back within 6 months and they fix it for free. Your citizenship certificate or birth certificate comes back separately.
Click to mark as done
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get a passport urgently?
Passport offices offer two fast services for pick-up. Urgent means next business day. Express means 2–9 business days. You must show proof of travel within that time, and you pay extra fees. Book the appointment and bring everything. They refuse incomplete files.
I just became a citizen. When can I apply?
You can apply for a first passport as soon as you have your citizenship certificate. Note this: your PR cardPermanent Resident Card — The official proof of Canadian permanent resident status, needed for travel back to Canada on commercial vehicles.Click for official info ↗ stops being valid on the day you take the oath. So if you need to travel, apply soon. Many new citizens apply in the same week and use the urgent service.
Can my guarantor be a relative?
Yes. The rules are now more relaxed. Your guarantor can be a family member, or even someone who lives at your address. They must be a Canadian citizen who is 18+, has known you for 2+ years, and holds a valid adult passport. A professional, like a doctor, is no longer required.
Can I apply online for my first Canadian passport?
No. You can only apply online for a renewal, and only if you meet strict rules. First-time adult applicants must apply in person at a passport office or Service Canada point, or by mail. You need original proof of citizenship and a photo signed by your guarantor.
What proof of citizenship do I need?
You need an original Canadian birth certificate or a citizenship certificate. Photocopies are not accepted. The document is returned with your new passport. Were you born outside Canada to Canadian parents? Apply for proof of citizenship first. That process alone can take months.
How long does a first passport take?
About 10 business days at a passport office, plus mailing time. By mail, up to 20 business days. Apply well before any trip you have planned. In a hurry? Ask about express service (2–9 business days) or urgent service (next business day). Both need an in-person appointment and proof of travel.
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