How to apply for a child passport in Canada
Where are you right now? 
Canada
|
US
| 
Outside Canada and the US
Mail delivery of passports will be delayed
If you didn’t pay for pickup service, the Canada Post labour disruption will delay the delivery of your passport.
Contact us to get your application transferred to a service location near you for pickup if you already applied and need your passport urgently.
You can still apply in person at a Service Canada Centre or passport office.
A Canadian passport is a travel document that Canadian citizens can apply for.
A child passport is valid for a maximum of 5 years. It’s valid until it reaches its expiry date, even after the child turns 16.
You can’t renew a child passport. When the child turns 16, they can apply for a new adult passport.
Until then, you need to apply for a new child passport when it expires.
Your child may not need a passport to travel to the US by land or sea.
Children 15 and under don’t need a passport to enter the United States or return to Canada by land or sea.
Documents you can use instead of a passport:
- original or copy of their birth certificate
- It should be issued by the vital statistics department from the province or territory where they were born.
- original Canadian citizenship certificate
- Canadian citizenship card
When they turn 16, they need a passport if they’re going to enter the US.
Learn more about traveling to the US from Canada.
Who can apply for a child passport
To apply for a child passport, you must be one of the following:
- one of the child’s parents (if you’re not separated or divorced)
- the parent who has custody of or decision-making responsibilities over the child (if you are separated or divorced)
- the child’s legal guardian
- Include all legal documents proving your legal guardianship (opens in a new tab) of the child.
All parents or legal guardians should sign the application form.
- If you don’t know where the other parents or legal guardians are, contact us.
- We may contact the other parent(s) or legal guardian(s).
If you’re worried that someone might apply for a passport for your child without your consent
Find out how to add your child’s name to a special list for their safety.
Forms, instructions and fees
Answer the questions below. We’ll then
- give you all the forms you need
- tell you how to submit your application
- show the costs for different passport services
You need to contact us as soon as possible to report the theft or loss of your previous passport.
How to apply for a child passport: Get it in 10 to 20 business days or more (Apply in person)
1. Complete the form
- Fill out the form on your computer to save time.
- Save the form on your computer and use Adobe Reader 10 or higher.
- Don’t use your phone or tablet. The form will not work properly.
- Read the instructions at the end of the form to make sure you’ve completed it properly.
- Sign each page of the application.
- Each parent or legal guardian should sign the application. We may contact the other parent or legal guardian.
- Include your email address to make it easier to check the status of your application online after you apply.
If your passport is lost or stolen but still valid
Since your passport is still valid, you also need to
- add a complete declaration concerning a lost, stolen, inaccessible, damaged or found Canadian travel document (PDF, 1.3 MB) to your application and
- pay the extra fee for replacing a lost or stolen passport
If your passport is damaged but still valid
Since your passport is still valid, you also need to add a complete declaration concerning a lost, stolen, inaccessible, damaged or found Canadian travel document (PDF, 1.33 MB) to your application.
Avoid this mistake
Don’t forget to
- indicate the relationship between you (the applicant) and the other parent or legal guardian in section 2 of the form
- add your signature in sections 2 and 5 of the form
- All of the child’s parents or legal guardians must sign the form.
- If you don’t know where the other parent or legal guardian is, contact us (opens in a new tab)
- include the date the guarantor signed the application in section 6 of the form
If both parents or legal guardians cannot sign the form, contact us and we’ll tell you what to do.
Get help with the form or alternate formats
- If you can’t open the form after saving it to your computer and using Adobe Reader
- in Canada or the US: contact us online or call us
- outside Canada and the US: contact the closest Canadian government office abroad
- Contact us for Braille instructions or large-print forms.
If your passport has a valid visa in it
Tell us on your form if you need the visa and want your original passport back. If you don’t, the visa could be damaged when the previous passport is cancelled.
2. Get all the required documents and the child’s passport photo
Include the following documents with your application:
- proof
of the child’s Canadian citizenship (opens in a new tab)
- a long form birth certificate from the Canadian province or territory where the child was born
or a citizenship certificate
- If you have a paper citizenship certificate, it must be the original document, not a photocopy.
- If you have a citizenship e-certificate, you must attach a printed copy
- The name on the proof of citizenship is what will appear on the passport.
- a long form birth certificate from the Canadian province or territory where the child was born
or a citizenship certificate
- proof
of parentage (opens in a new tab) or proof of legal guardianship
- Proof of parentage is required with every child passport application. New
- all documents that relate to custody, decision-making responsibilities, access, parenting time or mobility of the child (opens in a new tab), including any divorce judgment or order
- any valid Canadian passport or other travel document issued in the child’s name
- 2 identical passport photos of the child
- The back of 1 of the photos must have all of the following:
- The photographer must write the name and complete address of the studio and the date the photo
was taken.
- They can handwrite this or use a stamp.
- Stick-on labels are not accepted.
- Your guarantor (opens in a new tab) must also sign the back of this photo.
- The photographer must write the name and complete address of the studio and the date the photo
was taken.
- Read the full photo requirements (opens in a new tab) for more information.
- The back of 1 of the photos must have all of the following:
All your documents must be in either English or French. If a document is in another language, you must provide an official translation(opens in a new tab) .
3. Find a guarantor
You need a guarantor to sign
- your child’s application and
- 1 of the 2 passport photos
The guarantor must
- have known you personally for at least 2 years and
- know of the child
Avoid this mistake
Don’t forget to
- get the guarantor’s signature on the back of 1 of the 2 photos
- if applicable, submit all documents that refer to the child’s custody, mobility or access (opens in a new tab)
4. Submit your application and pay your fees
If you’re applying in person and need your passport in 10-20 business days
By appointment
You can book an appointment online (opens in a new tab) .
Some locations have a high demand for appointments. Their availability may vary.
Without an appointment (walk-in)
You can get walk-in services at a Service Canada Centre or a passport office (opens in a new tab) .
Wait times may be long at some passport offices. If the location is busy, we may prioritize people who need a passport within 48 hours.
Someone else can submit your application for you if you can’t go yourself. Learn more about who can submit a passport application on your behalf (opens in a new tab) .
Paying your fees
Your fees depend on what services you’re getting. How you can pay them depends on how you’re applying.
Fees for child passport services
| Passport type | CAN$ |
|---|---|
| Child passport | 57 |
There are other fees for
- standard pickup at a passport office
- replacing a lost or stolen passport
- other administrative services
| Services | CAN$ |
|---|---|
| Standard pickup (on or after 10 business days) | 20 |
Additional administrative fee for replacing a valid lost or stolen passport You must pay this fee if you report a passport as lost or stolen and are applying for a replacement. This fee does not include the cost of the new passport. |
45 |
| File transfer (to a different passport office in Canada) | 45 |
How to pay your fees in person
You can pay using any of the following:
- credit card or prepaid card (Visa®, MasterCard® or American Express®)
- debit card
- certified cheque or money order (postal or bank)
- in Canadian funds
- with the exact amount
- cheque from Canadian provincial, territorial or federal government departments
- For example, the Ministry of Social Services.
All cheques must be made payable to the Receiver General for Canada.
We don’t accept cash or personal cheques.
You can’t pay online for in-Canada services.
You won’t get a refund for the service fee if you
- cancel your application
- are refused a travel document
- are issued a passport for a shorter validity period than requested
- For example, if we issue a passport that’s valid for less than 5 years, despite you applying for a 5- or 10-year passport.
- This may happen if you’ve lost your passport multiple times.
- For example, if we issue a passport that’s valid for less than 5 years, despite you applying for a 5- or 10-year passport.
Only the consular fees (opens in a new tab) , which apply to all adult applications, are refundable if a passport is not issued.
5. Get your passport
When your passport is processed, it will be mailed to you unless you paid for pick-up service. Mail time is usually 5 business days, but it can vary across the country.
Any original documents you submitted will be mailed back to you. They may be in a separate package than your passport.
While you’re waiting for your passport, you can check the status of your application online (opens in a new tab) for instant updates.
If you paid for a pick-up service
The pickup date will be indicated on your receipt.
You can send someone else to pick up your passport if they have
- valid identification and
- something in writing from you saying they’re allowed to
Never sign your child’s passport for them
- It does not need a signature until they are 16 and older.
- A parent’s or legal guardian’s signature makes it invalid.
- If you sign your child’s passport, you’ll need to apply for a new one and pay all the fees.
- Print the signature policy (PDF, 601 KB) and bring it with you when you travel in case someone asks you to sign it.
If they want, the child may sign the passport themselves. We encourage them to sign it if they’re 11 or older, but they don’t have to.
If you’re moving, but haven’t received your passport yet
Contact us to update your mailing address if you
- haven’t received your passport and
- are moving within 30 days of submitting your application
If you have a community mailbox, make sure you check it before you contact us about your application.
How to apply for a child passport: Get it in 10 to 20 business days or more (Apply by mail)
1. Complete the form
- Fill out the form on your computer to save time.
- Save the form on your computer and use Adobe Reader 10 or higher.
- Don’t use your phone or tablet. The form will not work properly.
- Read the instructions at the end of the form to make sure you’ve completed it properly.
- Sign each page of the application.
- Each parent or legal guardian should sign the application. We may contact the other parent or legal guardian.
- Include your email address to make it easier to check the status of your application online after you apply.
If your passport is lost or stolen but still valid
Since your passport is still valid, you also need to
- add a complete declaration concerning a lost, stolen, inaccessible, damaged or found Canadian travel document (PDF, 1.3 MB) to your application and
- pay the extra fee for replacing a lost or stolen passport
If your passport is damaged but still valid
Since your passport is still valid, you also need to add a complete declaration concerning a lost, stolen, inaccessible, damaged or found Canadian travel document (PDF, 1.33 MB) to your application.
Avoid this mistake
Don’t forget to
- indicate the relationship between you (the applicant) and the other parent or legal guardian in section 2 of the form
- add your signature in sections 2 and 5 of the form
- All of the child’s parents or legal guardians must sign the form.
- If you don’t know where the other parent or legal guardian is, contact us (opens in a new tab)
- include the date the guarantor signed the application in section 6 of the form
If both parents or legal guardians cannot sign the form, contact us and we’ll tell you what to do.
Get help with the form or alternate formats
- If you can’t open the form after saving it to your computer and using Adobe Reader
- in Canada or the US: contact us online or call us
- outside Canada and the US: contact the closest Canadian government office abroad
- Contact us for Braille instructions or large-print forms.
If your passport has a valid visa in it
Tell us on your form if you need the visa and want your original passport back. If you don’t, the visa could be damaged when the previous passport is cancelled.
2. Get all the required documents and the child’s passport photo
Include the following documents with your application:
- proof
of the child’s Canadian citizenship (opens in a new tab)
- a long form birth certificate from the Canadian province or territory where the child was born
or a citizenship certificate
- If you have a paper citizenship certificate, it must be the original document, not a photocopy.
- If you have a citizenship e-certificate, you must attach a printed copy
- The name on the proof of citizenship is what will appear on the passport.
- a long form birth certificate from the Canadian province or territory where the child was born
or a citizenship certificate
- proof
of parentage (opens in a new tab) or proof of legal guardianship
- Proof of parentage is required with every child passport application. New
- all documents that relate to custody, decision-making responsibilities, access, parenting time or mobility of the child (opens in a new tab), including any divorce judgment or order
- any valid Canadian passport or other travel document issued in the child’s name
- 2 identical passport photos of the child
- The back of 1 of the photos must have all of the following:
- The photographer must write the name and complete address of the studio and the date the photo
was taken.
- They can handwrite this or use a stamp.
- Stick-on labels are not accepted.
- Your guarantor (opens in a new tab) must also sign the back of this photo.
- The photographer must write the name and complete address of the studio and the date the photo
was taken.
- Read the full photo requirements (opens in a new tab) for more information.
- The back of 1 of the photos must have all of the following:
All your documents must be in either English or French. If a document is in another language, you must provide an official translation(opens in a new tab) .
3. Find a guarantor
You need a guarantor to sign
- your child’s application and
- 1 of the 2 passport photos
The guarantor must
- have known you personally for at least 2 years and
- know of the child
Avoid this mistake
Don’t forget to
- get the guarantor’s signature on the back of 1 of the 2 photos
- if applicable, submit all documents that refer to the child’s custody, mobility or access (opens in a new tab)
4. Submit your application and pay your fees
Submit the application by mail from Alberta, Manitoba, Ontario, Quebec or Saskatchewan
Service standards don’t include mailing time. Mailing times vary across the country.
Use a certified courier or traceable mail service to reduce the delivery time of your application and help protect your documents.
Mailed applications must be sent by courier
Due to the Canada Post labour disruption, you need to use a courier to apply by mail.
Courier address
Government of Canada
Passport Program
22 De Varennes Street
Gatineau, Quebec J8T 8R1
Submit the application by mail from British Columbia, Northwest Territories, Nunavut or Yukon
Service standards don’t include mailing time. Mailing times vary across the country.
Use a certified courier or traceable mail service to reduce the delivery time of your application and help protect your documents.
Mailed applications must be sent by courier
Due to the Canada Post labour disruption, you need to use a courier to apply by mail.
Courier address
Government of Canada
Passport Program
22 De Varennes Street
Gatineau, Quebec J8T 8R1
Submit the application by mail from New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador, Nova Scotia or Prince Edward Island
Service standards don’t include mailing time. Mailing times vary across the country.
Use a certified courier or traceable mail service to reduce the delivery time of your application and help protect your documents.
Mailed applications must be sent by courier
Due to the Canada Post labour disruption, you need to use a courier to apply by mail.
Courier address
Government of Canada
Passport Program
22 De Varennes Street
Gatineau, Quebec J8T 8R1
Paying your fees
Your fees depend on what services you’re getting. How you can pay them depends on how you’re applying.
Fees for child passport services
| Passport type | CAN$ |
|---|---|
| Child passport | 57 |
There are other fees for
- replacing a lost or stolen passport
- other administrative services
| Services | CAN$ |
|---|---|
Additional administrative fee for replacing a valid lost or stolen passport You must pay this fee if you report a passport as lost or stolen and are applying for a replacement. This fee does not include the cost of the new passport. |
45 |
| File transfer (to a different passport office in Canada) | 45 |
How to pay your fees by mail
Fill out the payment section on your application form with any of the following:
- a credit card (Visa®, MasterCard® or American Express®)
- an embossed prepaid card that has raised letters or numbers (Visa®, MasterCard® or American Express®)
- a certified cheque or money order (postal or bank)
- in Canadian funds
- with the exact amount
- cheque from Canadian provincial, territorial or federal government departments
- For example, the Ministry of Social Services.
- All cheques must be made payable to the Receiver General for Canada.
- For example, the Ministry of Social Services.
We don’t accept cash or personal cheques.
You can’t pay online for in-Canada services.
You won’t get a refund for the service fee if you
- cancel your application
- are refused a travel document
- are issued a passport for a shorter validity period than requested
- For example, if we issue a passport that’s valid for less than 5 years, despite you applying for a 5- or 10-year passport.
- This may happen if you’ve lost your passport multiple times.
- For example, if we issue a passport that’s valid for less than 5 years, despite you applying for a 5- or 10-year passport.
Only the consular fees (opens in a new tab) , which apply to all adult applications, are refundable if a passport is not issued.
5. Get your passport
When your passport is processed, it will be mailed to you unless you paid for pick-up service. Mail time is usually 5 business days, but it can vary across the country.
Any original documents you submitted will be mailed back to you. They may be in a separate package than your passport.
While you’re waiting for your passport, you can check the status of your application online (opens in a new tab) for instant updates.
Never sign your child’s passport for them
- It does not need a signature until they are 16 and older.
- A parent’s or legal guardian’s signature makes it invalid.
- If you sign your child’s passport, you’ll need to apply for a new one and pay all the fees.
- Print the signature policy (PDF, 601 KB) and bring it with you when you travel in case someone asks you to sign it.
If they want, the child may sign the passport themselves. We encourage them to sign it if they’re 11 or older, but they don’t have to.
If you’re moving, but haven’t received your passport yet
Contact us to update your mailing address if you
- haven’t received your passport and
- are moving within 30 days of submitting your application
If you have a community mailbox, make sure you check it before you contact us about your application.
How to apply for a child passport: Get it in 2 to 9 business days
1. Complete the form
- Fill out the form on your computer to save time.
- Save the form on your computer and use Adobe Reader 10 or higher.
- Don’t use your phone or tablet. The form will not work properly.
- Read the instructions at the end of the form to make sure you’ve completed it properly.
- Sign each page of the application.
- Each parent or legal guardian should sign the application. We may contact the other parent or legal guardian.
- Include your email address to make it easier to check the status of your application online after you apply.
If your passport is lost or stolen but still valid
Since your passport is still valid, you also need to
- add a complete declaration concerning a lost, stolen, inaccessible, damaged or found Canadian travel document (PDF, 1.3 MB) to your application and
- pay the extra fee for replacing a lost or stolen passport
If your passport is damaged but still valid
Since your passport is still valid, you also need to add a complete declaration concerning a lost, stolen, inaccessible, damaged or found Canadian travel document (PDF, 1.33 MB) to your application.
Avoid this mistake
Don’t forget to
- indicate the relationship between you (the applicant) and the other parent or legal guardian in section 2 of the form
- add your signature in sections 2 and 5 of the form
- All of the child’s parents or legal guardians must sign the form.
- If you don’t know where the other parent or legal guardian is, contact us (opens in a new tab)
- include the date the guarantor signed the application in section 6 of the form
If both parents or legal guardians cannot sign the form, contact us and we’ll tell you what to do.
Get help with the form or alternate formats
- If you can’t open the form after saving it to your computer and using Adobe Reader
- in Canada or the US: contact us online or call us
- outside Canada and the US: contact the closest Canadian government office abroad
- Contact us for Braille instructions or large-print forms.
If your passport has a valid visa in it
Tell us on your form if you need the visa and want your original passport back. If you don’t, the visa could be damaged when the previous passport is cancelled.
2. Get all the required documents and the child’s passport photo
Include the following documents with your application:
- proof
of the child’s Canadian citizenship (opens in a new tab)
- a long form birth certificate from the Canadian province or territory where the child was born
or a citizenship certificate
- If you have a paper citizenship certificate, it must be the original document, not a photocopy.
- If you have a citizenship e-certificate, you must attach a printed copy
- The name on the proof of citizenship is what will appear on the passport.
- a long form birth certificate from the Canadian province or territory where the child was born
or a citizenship certificate
- proof
of parentage (opens in a new tab) or proof of legal guardianship
- Proof of parentage is required with every child passport application. New
- all documents that relate to custody, decision-making responsibilities, access, parenting time or mobility of the child (opens in a new tab), including any divorce judgment or order
- any valid Canadian passport or other travel document issued in the child’s name
- 2 identical passport photos of the child
- The back of 1 of the photos must have all of the following:
- The photographer must write the name and complete address of the studio and the date the photo
was taken.
- They can handwrite this or use a stamp.
- Stick-on labels are not accepted.
- Your guarantor (opens in a new tab) must also sign the back of this photo.
- The photographer must write the name and complete address of the studio and the date the photo
was taken.
- Read the full photo requirements (opens in a new tab) for more information.
- The back of 1 of the photos must have all of the following:
All your documents must be in either English or French. If a document is in another language, you must provide an official translation(opens in a new tab) .
3. Find a guarantor
You need a guarantor to sign
- your child’s application and
- 1 of the 2 passport photos
The guarantor must
- have known you personally for at least 2 years and
- know of the child
Avoid this mistake
Don’t forget to
- get the guarantor’s signature on the back of 1 of the 2 photos
- if applicable, submit all documents that refer to the child’s custody, mobility or access (opens in a new tab)
4. Submit your application and pay your fees
If you’re applying in person and need your passport in 2 to 9 business days
You may need to provide proof that you need the passport.
By appointment
You can book an appointment online (opens in a new tab).
Some locations have a high demand for appointments. Their availability may vary.
Without an appointment (walk-in)
Go to a passport office with express pick-up service (opens in a new tab) .
If the location is busy, we may prioritize people who need a passport within 48 hours.
Paying your fees
Your fees depend on what services you’re getting. How you can pay them depends on how you’re applying.
Fees for child passport services (express pickup)
| Passport type | CAN$ |
|---|---|
| Child passport | 57 |
There are other fees for
- express pickup
- replacing a lost or stolen passport
- other administrative services
| Services | CAN$ |
|---|---|
| Express pickup (within 2 to 9 business days) | 50 |
Additional administrative fee for replacing a valid lost or stolen passport You must pay this fee if you report a passport as lost or stolen and are applying for a replacement. This fee does not include the cost of the new passport. |
45 |
| File transfer (to a different passport office in Canada) | 45 |
How to pay your fees in person
You can pay using any of the following:
- credit card or prepaid card (Visa®, MasterCard® or American Express®)
- debit card
- certified cheque or money order (postal or bank)
- in Canadian funds
- with the exact amount
- cheque from Canadian provincial, territorial or federal government departments
- For example, the Ministry of Social Services.
All cheques must be made payable to the Receiver General for Canada.
We don’t accept cash or personal cheques.
You can’t pay online for in-Canada services.
You won’t get a refund for the service fee if you
- cancel your application
- are refused a travel document
- are issued a passport for a shorter validity period than requested
- For example, if we issue a passport that’s valid for less than 5 years, despite you applying for a 5- or 10-year passport.
- This may happen if you’ve lost your passport multiple times.
- For example, if we issue a passport that’s valid for less than 5 years, despite you applying for a 5- or 10-year passport.
Only the consular fees (opens in a new tab) , which apply to all adult applications, are refundable if a passport is not issued.
5. Get your passport
The pickup date will be indicated on your receipt.
You can send someone else to pick up your passport if they have
- valid identification and
- something in writing from you saying they’re allowed to
Never sign your child’s passport for them
- It does not need a signature until they are 16 and older.
- A parent’s or legal guardian’s signature makes it invalid.
- If you sign your child’s passport, you’ll need to apply for a new one and pay all the fees.
- Print the signature policy (PDF, 601 KB) and bring it with you when you travel in case someone asks you to sign it.
If they want, the child may sign the passport themselves. We encourage them to sign it if they’re 11 or older, but they don’t have to.
How to apply for a child passport: Get it by the end of the next business day
1. Complete the form
- Fill out the form on your computer to save time.
- Save the form on your computer and use Adobe Reader 10 or higher.
- Don’t use your phone or tablet. The form will not work properly.
- Read the instructions at the end of the form to make sure you’ve completed it properly.
- Sign each page of the application.
- Each parent or legal guardian should sign the application. We may contact the other parent or legal guardian.
- Include your email address to make it easier to check the status of your application online after you apply.
If your passport is lost or stolen but still valid
Since your passport is still valid, you also need to
- add a complete declaration concerning a lost, stolen, inaccessible, damaged or found Canadian travel document (PDF, 1.3 MB) to your application and
- pay the extra fee for replacing a lost or stolen passport
If your passport is damaged but still valid
Since your passport is still valid, you also need to add a complete declaration concerning a lost, stolen, inaccessible, damaged or found Canadian travel document (PDF, 1.33 MB) to your application.
Avoid this mistake
Don’t forget to
- indicate the relationship between you (the applicant) and the other parent or legal guardian in section 2 of the form
- add your signature in sections 2 and 5 of the form
- All of the child’s parents or legal guardians must sign the form.
- If you don’t know where the other parent or legal guardian is, contact us (opens in a new tab)
- include the date the guarantor signed the application in section 6 of the form
If both parents or legal guardians cannot sign the form, contact us and we’ll tell you what to do.
Get help with the form or alternate formats
- If you can’t open the form after saving it to your computer and using Adobe Reader
- in Canada or the US: contact us online or call us
- outside Canada and the US: contact the closest Canadian government office abroad
- Contact us for Braille instructions or large-print forms.
If your passport has a valid visa in it
Tell us on your form if you need the visa and want your original passport back. If you don’t, the visa could be damaged when the previous passport is cancelled.
2. Get all the required documents and the child’s passport photo
Include the following documents with your application:
- proof
of the child’s Canadian citizenship (opens in a new tab)
- a long form birth certificate from the Canadian province or territory where the child was born
or a citizenship certificate
- If you have a paper citizenship certificate, it must be the original document, not a photocopy.
- If you have a citizenship e-certificate, you must attach a printed copy
- The name on the proof of citizenship is what will appear on the passport.
- a long form birth certificate from the Canadian province or territory where the child was born
or a citizenship certificate
- proof
of parentage (opens in a new tab) or proof of legal guardianship
- Proof of parentage is required with every child passport application. New
- all documents that relate to custody, decision-making responsibilities, access, parenting time or mobility of the child (opens in a new tab), including any divorce judgment or order
- any valid Canadian passport or other travel document issued in the child’s name
- 2 identical passport photos of the child
- The back of 1 of the photos must have all of the following:
- The photographer must write the name and complete address of the studio and the date the photo
was taken.
- They can handwrite this or use a stamp.
- Stick-on labels are not accepted.
- Your guarantor (opens in a new tab) must also sign the back of this photo.
- The photographer must write the name and complete address of the studio and the date the photo
was taken.
- Read the full photo requirements (opens in a new tab) for more information.
- The back of 1 of the photos must have all of the following:
All your documents must be in either English or French. If a document is in another language, you must provide an official translation(opens in a new tab) .
3. Find a guarantor
You need a guarantor to sign
- your child’s application and
- 1 of the 2 passport photos
The guarantor must
- have known you personally for at least 2 years and
- know of the child
Avoid this mistake
Don’t forget to
- get the guarantor’s signature on the back of 1 of the 2 photos
- if applicable, submit all documents that refer to the child’s custody, mobility or access (opens in a new tab)
4. Submit your application and pay your fees
If you need your passport by end of next business day
- Go to a passport office with urgent pick-up(opens in a new tab) .
- You do not need an appointment.
- You must provide proof that you need the passport.
- Make sure it’s a passport office and not a regular Service Canada Centre or you won’t get your passport in time.
- You can check walk-in wait times(opens in a new tab) before you go.
Paying your fees
Your fees depend on what services you’re getting. How you can pay them depends on how you’re applying.
Fees for child passport service (urgent pickup)
| Passport type | CAN$ |
|---|---|
| Child passport | 57 |
There are other fees for
- urgent pickup
- replacing a lost or stolen passport
- other administrative services
| Services | CAN$ |
|---|---|
| Urgent pickup (by the end of the next business day) | 110 |
Additional administrative fee for replacing a valid lost or stolen passport You must pay this fee if you report a passport as lost or stolen and are applying for a replacement. This fee does not include the cost of the new passport. |
45 |
| File transfer (to a different passport office in Canada) | 45 |
How to pay your fees in person
You can pay using any of the following:
- credit card or prepaid card (Visa®, MasterCard® or American Express®)
- debit card
- certified cheque or money order (postal or bank)
- in Canadian funds
- with the exact amount
- cheque from Canadian provincial, territorial or federal government departments
- For example, the Ministry of Social Services.
All cheques must be made payable to the Receiver General for Canada.
We don’t accept cash or personal cheques.
You can’t pay online for in-Canada services.
You won’t get a refund for the service fee if you
- cancel your application
- are refused a travel document
- are issued a passport for a shorter validity period than requested
- For example, if we issue a passport that’s valid for less than 5 years, despite you applying for a 5- or 10-year passport.
- This may happen if you’ve lost your passport multiple times.
- For example, if we issue a passport that’s valid for less than 5 years, despite you applying for a 5- or 10-year passport.
Only the consular fees (opens in a new tab) , which apply to all adult applications, are refundable if a passport is not issued.
5. Get your passport
The pickup date will be indicated on your receipt.
You can send someone else to pick up your passport if they have
- valid identification and
- something in writing from you saying they’re allowed to
Never sign your child’s passport for them
- It does not need a signature until they are 16 and older.
- A parent’s or legal guardian’s signature makes it invalid.
- If you sign your child’s passport, you’ll need to apply for a new one and pay all the fees.
- Print the signature policy (PDF, 601 KB) and bring it with you when you travel in case someone asks you to sign it.
If they want, the child may sign the passport themselves. We encourage them to sign it if they’re 11 or older, but they don’t have to.
How to apply for a child passport: Get it on a weekend or statutory holiday
1. Complete the form
- Fill out the form on your computer to save time.
- Save the form on your computer and use Adobe Reader 10 or higher.
- Don’t use your phone or tablet. The form will not work properly.
- Read the instructions at the end of the form to make sure you’ve completed it properly.
- Sign each page of the application.
- Each parent or legal guardian should sign the application. We may contact the other parent or legal guardian.
- Include your email address to make it easier to check the status of your application online after you apply.
If your passport is lost or stolen but still valid
Since your passport is still valid, you also need to
- add a complete declaration concerning a lost, stolen, inaccessible, damaged or found Canadian travel document (PDF, 1.3 MB) to your application and
- pay the extra fee for replacing a lost or stolen passport
If your passport is damaged but still valid
Since your passport is still valid, you also need to add a complete declaration concerning a lost, stolen, inaccessible, damaged or found Canadian travel document (PDF, 1.33 MB) to your application.
Avoid this mistake
Don’t forget to
- indicate the relationship between you (the applicant) and the other parent or legal guardian in section 2 of the form
- add your signature in sections 2 and 5 of the form
- All of the child’s parents or legal guardians must sign the form.
- If you don’t know where the other parent or legal guardian is, contact us (opens in a new tab)
- include the date the guarantor signed the application in section 6 of the form
If both parents or legal guardians cannot sign the form, contact us and we’ll tell you what to do.
Get help with the form or alternate formats
- If you can’t open the form after saving it to your computer and using Adobe Reader
- in Canada or the US: contact us online or call us
- outside Canada and the US: contact the closest Canadian government office abroad
- Contact us for Braille instructions or large-print forms.
If your passport has a valid visa in it
Tell us on your form if you need the visa and want your original passport back. If you don’t, the visa could be damaged when the previous passport is cancelled.
2. Get all the required documents and the child’s passport photo
Include the following documents with your application:
- proof
of the child’s Canadian citizenship (opens in a new tab)
- a long form birth certificate from the Canadian province or territory where the child was born
or a citizenship certificate
- If you have a paper citizenship certificate, it must be the original document, not a photocopy.
- If you have a citizenship e-certificate, you must attach a printed copy
- The name on the proof of citizenship is what will appear on the passport.
- a long form birth certificate from the Canadian province or territory where the child was born
or a citizenship certificate
- proof
of parentage (opens in a new tab) or proof of legal guardianship
- Proof of parentage is required with every child passport application. New
- all documents that relate to custody, decision-making responsibilities, access, parenting time or mobility of the child (opens in a new tab), including any divorce judgment or order
- any valid Canadian passport or other travel document issued in the child’s name
- 2 identical passport photos of the child
- The back of 1 of the photos must have all of the following:
- The photographer must write the name and complete address of the studio and the date the photo
was taken.
- They can handwrite this or use a stamp.
- Stick-on labels are not accepted.
- Your guarantor (opens in a new tab) must also sign the back of this photo.
- The photographer must write the name and complete address of the studio and the date the photo
was taken.
- Read the full photo requirements (opens in a new tab) for more information.
- The back of 1 of the photos must have all of the following:
All your documents must be in either English or French. If a document is in another language, you must provide an official translation(opens in a new tab) .
3. Find a guarantor
You need a guarantor to sign
- your child’s application and
- 1 of the 2 passport photos
The guarantor must
- have known you personally for at least 2 years and
- know of the child
Avoid this mistake
Don’t forget to
- get the guarantor’s signature on the back of 1 of the 2 photos
- if applicable, submit all documents that refer to the child’s custody, mobility or access (opens in a new tab)
4. Call us and pay the fees (weekend or statutory holiday)
Call us ahead of time at 1-800-567-6868 to find out how to submit the application. We answer the phone Monday to Friday
- from 8:30 am to 5 pm (your local time)
- from 9:00 am to 5:30 pm (Newfoundland)
- except for statutory holidays
You must provide proof you need the passport.
Get information on emergency passport services outside these hours
You can leave a message and ask for us to call you back
- on Friday or a weekday before a statutory holiday after 5 pm (your local time), 5:30 pm (Newfoundland)
- on Saturday or Sunday
We’ll call you with information on emergency services between 9 am and 5 pm (your local time).
Paying your fees
To get the weekend or statutory holiday service, you need to pay an additional $335 on top of the regular passport fees.
If you need the weekend or holiday service for your family members at the same time, you need to pay an urgent service fee of $110 per family member.
For example, if you apply for a 10-year passport for yourself and a 5-year passport for your child, the fees will be
- $160 for your passport
- $335 for your weekend or statutory holiday service
- $57 for the child’s passport
- $110 for the child’s urgent service
Fees for weekend or statutory holiday passport service
| Passport type | CAN$ |
|---|---|
| 5-year adult passport (age 16 or over) | 120 |
| 10-year adult passport (age 16 or over) | 160 |
| Child passport (0 to 15 years of age) | 57 |
There are other fees for
- replacing a lost or stolen passport
- other administrative services
| Services | CAN$ |
|---|---|
Weekend or statutory holiday This service is only
|
335 |
Additional administrative fee for replacing a valid lost or stolen passport You must pay this fee if you report a passport as lost or stolen and are applying for a replacement. This fee does not include the cost of the new passport. |
45 |
| File transfer (to a different passport office in Canada) | 45 |
How to pay your fees in person
You can pay using any of the following:
- credit card or prepaid card (Visa®, MasterCard® or American Express®)
- debit card
- certified cheque or money order (postal or bank)
- in Canadian funds
- with the exact amount
- cheque from Canadian provincial, territorial or federal government departments
- For example, the Ministry of Social Services.
All cheques must be made payable to the Receiver General for Canada.
We don’t accept cash or personal cheques.
You can’t pay online for in-Canada services.
You won’t get a refund for the service fee if you
- cancel your application
- are refused a travel document
- are issued a passport for a shorter validity period than requested
- For example, if we issue a passport that’s valid for less than 5 years, despite you applying for a 5- or 10-year passport.
- This may happen if you’ve lost your passport multiple times.
- For example, if we issue a passport that’s valid for less than 5 years, despite you applying for a 5- or 10-year passport.
Only the consular fees (opens in a new tab) , which apply to all adult applications, are refundable if a passport is not issued.
5. Get your passport
The pickup date will be indicated on your receipt.
You can send someone else to pick up your passport if they have
- valid identification and
- something in writing from you saying they’re allowed to
Never sign your child’s passport for them
- It does not need a signature until they are 16 and older.
- A parent’s or legal guardian’s signature makes it invalid.
- If you sign your child’s passport, you’ll need to apply for a new one and pay all the fees.
- Print the signature policy (PDF, 601 KB) and bring it with you when you travel in case someone asks you to sign it.
If they want, the child may sign the passport themselves. We encourage them to sign it if they’re 11 or older, but they don’t have to.
How to apply for a child passport as a foster parent or adoptive parent of a child in foster care or on probationary adoption: Get it in 10 to 20 business days or more
1. Complete the forms
- Fill out sections 1, 3 and 4.
- In section 2, answer just the first 2 questions about adoption and custody.
- You do not need to fill out sections 5 or 6. You’ll give us that information on the second form.
Including your email address makes it easier to check the status of your application online after you apply.
You also need to complete this second form:
If your passport is lost or stolen but still valid
Since your passport is still valid, you also need to
- add a complete declaration concerning a lost, stolen, inaccessible, damaged or found Canadian travel document (PDF, 1.3 MB) to your application and
- pay the extra fee for replacing a lost or stolen passport
If your passport is damaged but still valid
Since your passport is still valid, you also need to add a complete declaration concerning a lost, stolen, inaccessible, damaged or found Canadian travel document (PDF, 1.33 MB) to your application.
Get help with the form or alternate formats
- If you can’t open the form after saving it to your computer and using Adobe Reader
- in Canada or the US: contact us online or call us
- outside Canada and the US: contact the closest Canadian government office abroad
- Contact us for Braille instructions or large-print forms.
If your passport has a valid visa in it
Tell us on your form if you need the visa and want your original passport back. If you don’t, the visa could be damaged when the previous passport is cancelled.
2. Get all the required documents and the child’s passport photo
Include the following documents with the application forms:
- proof of the child’s Canadian citizenship (opens in a new tab)
- This can be a long-form birth certificate or a citizenship certificate.
- It must be the original document, not a photocopy.
- The name on the proof of citizenship is what will appear on their passport.
- This can be a long-form birth certificate or a citizenship certificate.
- any valid Canadian passport or other travel document issued in the child’s name
- 2 identical passport photos of the child
- On the back of one of the photos, the photographer must write
- the name of their studio
- its complete address
- the date the photos were taken
- Your guarantor (opens in a new tab) must also sign the back of this photo.
- Read the full photo requirements (opens in a new tab) for more information.
- On the back of one of the photos, the photographer must write
You also need these extra documents for a child in foster care or undergoing probationary adoption:
- a letter from the director of family services that proves the identity of the child’s legal guardian or person with parental authority
- a copy of court orders or agreements involving the child and family services
- If you can’t forward the court order or agreement documents for confidentiality reasons, include a summary of the court orders or agreements.
- The summary needs to include
- the name of the child’s legal guardian or the person who has parental authority
- if a mobility restriction clause exists and the details of the restriction
- the date and file number of the court order, if possible
If you’re updating the child’s gender identifier, you may need to provide extra documents.
If you’re applying for a child undergoing public probationary adoption
You also need to include a letter from the director of family services confirming
- that the child is undergoing an adoption process
- the name of the future adoptive parents
If you aren’t the legal guardian or the person with parental authority
You also need to include a letter from either
- the child’s legal guardian or
- the person with parental authority
The letter needs to
- indicate what your relationship to the child is
- authorize you to apply for their passport and have it released to you
3. Find a guarantor
You need a guarantor to sign
- your child’s application and
- 1 of the 2 passport photos
The guarantor must
- have known you personally for at least 2 years and
- know of the child
Avoid this mistake
Don’t forget to
- get the guarantor’s signature on the back of 1 of the 2 photos
- if applicable, submit all documents that refer to the child’s custody, mobility or access (opens in a new tab)
4. Submit your application and pay your fees
If you’re applying in person and need your passport in 10-20 business days
By appointment
You can book an appointment online (opens in a new tab) .
Some locations have a high demand for appointments. Their availability may vary.
Without an appointment (walk-in)
You can get walk-in services at a Service Canada Centre or a passport office (opens in a new tab) .
Wait times may be long at some passport offices. If the location is busy, we may prioritize people who need a passport within 48 hours.
Someone else can submit your application for you if you can’t go yourself. Learn more about who can submit a passport application on your behalf (opens in a new tab) .
Paying your fees
Your fees depend on what services you’re getting. How you can pay them depends on how you’re applying.
Fees for child passport services
| Passport type | CAN$ |
|---|---|
| Child passport | 57 |
There are other fees for
- standard pickup at a passport office
- replacing a lost or stolen passport
- other administrative services
| Services | CAN$ |
|---|---|
| Standard pickup (on or after 10 business days) | 20 |
Additional administrative fee for replacing a valid lost or stolen passport You must pay this fee if you report a passport as lost or stolen and are applying for a replacement. This fee does not include the cost of the new passport. |
45 |
| File transfer (to a different passport office in Canada) | 45 |
How to pay your fees in person
You can pay using any of the following:
- credit card or prepaid card (Visa®, MasterCard® or American Express®)
- debit card
- certified cheque or money order (postal or bank)
- in Canadian funds
- with the exact amount
- cheque from Canadian provincial, territorial or federal government departments
- For example, the Ministry of Social Services.
All cheques must be made payable to the Receiver General for Canada.
We don’t accept cash or personal cheques.
You can’t pay online for in-Canada services.
You won’t get a refund for the service fee if you
- cancel your application
- are refused a travel document
- are issued a passport for a shorter validity period than requested
- For example, if we issue a passport that’s valid for less than 5 years, despite you applying for a 5- or 10-year passport.
- This may happen if you’ve lost your passport multiple times.
- For example, if we issue a passport that’s valid for less than 5 years, despite you applying for a 5- or 10-year passport.
Only the consular fees (opens in a new tab) , which apply to all adult applications, are refundable if a passport is not issued.
5. Get your passport
When your passport is processed, it will be mailed to you unless you paid for pick-up service. Mail time is usually 5 business days, but it can vary across the country.
Wildfires in parts of Canada may affect the delivery of passports by mail
Contact us if you need your passport urgently and
- you can’t access your mail
- you’ve asked to have your passport delivered to you
While you’re waiting for your passport, you can check the status of your application online (opens in a new tab) for instant updates.
If you applied by mail
Any original documents you submitted will be mailed back to you. They may be in a separate package than your passport.
If you paid for a pick-up service
The pickup date will be indicated on your receipt.
You can send someone else to pick up your passport if they have
- valid identification and
- something in writing from you saying they’re allowed to
Never sign your child’s passport for them
- It does not need a signature until they are 16 and older.
- A parent’s or legal guardian’s signature makes it invalid.
- If you sign your child’s passport, you’ll need to apply for a new one and pay all the fees.
- Print the signature policy (PDF, 601 KB) and bring it with you when you travel in case someone asks you to sign it.
If they want, the child may sign the passport themselves. We encourage them to sign it if they’re 11 or older, but they don’t have to.
If you’re moving, but haven’t received your passport yet
Contact us to update your mailing address if you
- haven’t received your passport and
- are moving within 30 days of submitting your application
If you have a community mailbox, make sure you check it before you contact us about your application.
How to apply for a child passport as a foster parent or adoptive parent of a child in foster care or on probationary adoption: Get it in 10 to 20 business days or more (Apply by mail)
1. Complete the forms
- Fill out sections 1, 3 and 4.
- In section 2, answer just the first 2 questions about adoption and custody.
- You do not need to fill out sections 5 or 6. You’ll give us that information on the second form.
Including your email address makes it easier to check the status of your application online after you apply.
You also need to complete this second form:
If your passport is lost or stolen but still valid
Since your passport is still valid, you also need to
- add a complete declaration concerning a lost, stolen, inaccessible, damaged or found Canadian travel document (PDF, 1.3 MB) to your application and
- pay the extra fee for replacing a lost or stolen passport
If your passport is damaged but still valid
Since your passport is still valid, you also need to add a complete declaration concerning a lost, stolen, inaccessible, damaged or found Canadian travel document (PDF, 1.33 MB) to your application.
Get help with the form or alternate formats
- If you can’t open the form after saving it to your computer and using Adobe Reader
- in Canada or the US: contact us online or call us
- outside Canada and the US: contact the closest Canadian government office abroad
- Contact us for Braille instructions or large-print forms.
If your passport has a valid visa in it
Tell us on your form if you need the visa and want your original passport back. If you don’t, the visa could be damaged when the previous passport is cancelled.
2. Get all the required documents and the child’s passport photo
Include the following documents with the application forms:
- proof of the child’s Canadian citizenship (opens in a new tab)
- This can be a long-form birth certificate or a citizenship certificate.
- It must be the original document, not a photocopy.
- The name on the proof of citizenship is what will appear on their passport.
- This can be a long-form birth certificate or a citizenship certificate.
- any valid Canadian passport or other travel document issued in the child’s name
- 2 identical passport photos of the child
- On the back of one of the photos, the photographer must write
- the name of their studio
- its complete address
- the date the photos were taken
- Your guarantor (opens in a new tab) must also sign the back of this photo.
- Read the full photo requirements (opens in a new tab) for more information.
- On the back of one of the photos, the photographer must write
You also need these extra documents for a child in foster care or undergoing probationary adoption:
- a letter from the director of family services that proves the identity of the child’s legal guardian or person with parental authority
- a copy of court orders or agreements involving the child and family services
- If you can’t forward the court order or agreement documents for confidentiality reasons, include a summary of the court orders or agreements.
- The summary needs to include
- the name of the child’s legal guardian or the person who has parental authority
- if a mobility restriction clause exists and the details of the restriction
- the date and file number of the court order, if possible
If you’re updating the child’s gender identifier, you may need to provide extra documents.
If you’re applying for a child undergoing public probationary adoption
You also need to include a letter from the director of family services confirming
- that the child is undergoing an adoption process
- the name of the future adoptive parents
If you aren’t the legal guardian or the person with parental authority
You also need to include a letter from either
- the child’s legal guardian or
- the person with parental authority
The letter needs to
- indicate what your relationship to the child is
- authorize you to apply for their passport and have it released to you
3. Find a guarantor
You need a guarantor to sign
- your child’s application and
- 1 of the 2 passport photos
The guarantor must
- have known you personally for at least 2 years and
- know of the child
Avoid this mistake
Don’t forget to
- get the guarantor’s signature on the back of 1 of the 2 photos
- if applicable, submit all documents that refer to the child’s custody, mobility or access (opens in a new tab)
4. Submit your application and pay your fees
Submit the application by mail from Alberta, Manitoba, Ontario, Quebec or Saskatchewan
Service standards don’t include mailing time. Mailing times vary across the country.
Use a certified courier or traceable mail service to reduce the delivery time of your application and help protect your documents.
Mailed applications must be sent by courier
Due to the Canada Post labour disruption, you need to use a courier to apply by mail.
Courier address
Government of Canada
Passport Program
22 De Varennes Street
Gatineau, Quebec J8T 8R1
Submit the application by mail from British Columbia, Northwest Territories, Nunavut or Yukon
Service standards don’t include mailing time. Mailing times vary across the country.
Use a certified courier or traceable mail service to reduce the delivery time of your application and help protect your documents.
Mailed applications must be sent by courier
Due to the Canada Post labour disruption, you need to use a courier to apply by mail.
Courier address
Government of Canada
Passport Program
22 De Varennes Street
Gatineau, Quebec J8T 8R1
Submit the application by mail from New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador, Nova Scotia or Prince Edward Island
Service standards don’t include mailing time. Mailing times vary across the country.
Use a certified courier or traceable mail service to reduce the delivery time of your application and help protect your documents.
Mailed applications must be sent by courier
Due to the Canada Post labour disruption, you need to use a courier to apply by mail.
Courier address
Government of Canada
Passport Program
22 De Varennes Street
Gatineau, Quebec J8T 8R1
Paying your fees
Your fees depend on what services you’re getting. How you can pay them depends on how you’re applying.
Fees for child passport services
| Passport type | CAN$ |
|---|---|
| Child passport | 57 |
There are other fees for
- replacing a lost or stolen passport
- other administrative services
| Services | CAN$ |
|---|---|
Additional administrative fee for replacing a valid lost or stolen passport You must pay this fee if you report a passport as lost or stolen and are applying for a replacement. This fee does not include the cost of the new passport. |
45 |
| File transfer (to a different passport office in Canada) | 45 |
How to pay your fees by mail
Fill out the payment section on your application form with any of the following:
- a credit card (Visa®, MasterCard® or American Express®)
- an embossed prepaid card that has raised letters or numbers (Visa®, MasterCard® or American Express®)
- a certified cheque or money order (postal or bank)
- in Canadian funds
- with the exact amount
- cheque from Canadian provincial, territorial or federal government departments
- For example, the Ministry of Social Services.
- All cheques must be made payable to the Receiver General for Canada.
- For example, the Ministry of Social Services.
We don’t accept cash or personal cheques.
You can’t pay online for in-Canada services.
You won’t get a refund for the service fee if you
- cancel your application
- are refused a travel document
- are issued a passport for a shorter validity period than requested
- For example, if we issue a passport that’s valid for less than 5 years, despite you applying for a 5- or 10-year passport.
- This may happen if you’ve lost your passport multiple times.
- For example, if we issue a passport that’s valid for less than 5 years, despite you applying for a 5- or 10-year passport.
Only the consular fees (opens in a new tab) , which apply to all adult applications, are refundable if a passport is not issued.
5. Get your passport
When your passport is processed, it will be mailed to you unless you paid for pick-up service. Mail time is usually 5 business days, but it can vary across the country.
Any original documents you submitted will be mailed back to you. They may be in a separate package than your passport.
While you’re waiting for your passport, you can check the status of your application online (opens in a new tab) for instant updates.
Never sign your child’s passport for them
- It does not need a signature until they are 16 and older.
- A parent’s or legal guardian’s signature makes it invalid.
- If you sign your child’s passport, you’ll need to apply for a new one and pay all the fees.
- Print the signature policy (PDF, 601 KB) and bring it with you when you travel in case someone asks you to sign it.
If they want, the child may sign the passport themselves. We encourage them to sign it if they’re 11 or older, but they don’t have to.
If you’re moving, but haven’t received your passport yet
Contact us to update your mailing address if you
- haven’t received your passport and
- are moving within 30 days of submitting your application
If you have a community mailbox, make sure you check it before you contact us about your application.
How to apply for a child passport as a foster parent or adoptive parent of a child in foster care or on probationary adoption: Get it in 2 to 9 business days
1. Complete the forms
- Fill out sections 1, 3 and 4.
- In section 2, answer just the first 2 questions about adoption and custody.
- You do not need to fill out sections 5 or 6. You’ll give us that information on the second form.
Including your email address makes it easier to check the status of your application online after you apply.
You also need to complete this second form:
If your passport is lost or stolen but still valid
Since your passport is still valid, you also need to
- add a complete declaration concerning a lost, stolen, inaccessible, damaged or found Canadian travel document (PDF, 1.3 MB) to your application and
- pay the extra fee for replacing a lost or stolen passport
If your passport is damaged but still valid
Since your passport is still valid, you also need to add a complete declaration concerning a lost, stolen, inaccessible, damaged or found Canadian travel document (PDF, 1.33 MB) to your application.
Get help with the form or alternate formats
- If you can’t open the form after saving it to your computer and using Adobe Reader
- in Canada or the US: contact us online or call us
- outside Canada and the US: contact the closest Canadian government office abroad
- Contact us for Braille instructions or large-print forms.
If your passport has a valid visa in it
Tell us on your form if you need the visa and want your original passport back. If you don’t, the visa could be damaged when the previous passport is cancelled.
2. Get all the required documents and the child’s passport photo
Include the following documents with the application forms:
- proof of the child’s Canadian citizenship (opens in a new tab)
- This can be a long-form birth certificate or a citizenship certificate.
- It must be the original document, not a photocopy.
- The name on the proof of citizenship is what will appear on their passport.
- This can be a long-form birth certificate or a citizenship certificate.
- any valid Canadian passport or other travel document issued in the child’s name
- 2 identical passport photos of the child
- On the back of one of the photos, the photographer must write
- the name of their studio
- its complete address
- the date the photos were taken
- Your guarantor (opens in a new tab) must also sign the back of this photo.
- Read the full photo requirements (opens in a new tab) for more information.
- On the back of one of the photos, the photographer must write
You also need these extra documents for a child in foster care or undergoing probationary adoption:
- a letter from the director of family services that proves the identity of the child’s legal guardian or person with parental authority
- a copy of court orders or agreements involving the child and family services
- If you can’t forward the court order or agreement documents for confidentiality reasons, include a summary of the court orders or agreements.
- The summary needs to include
- the name of the child’s legal guardian or the person who has parental authority
- if a mobility restriction clause exists and the details of the restriction
- the date and file number of the court order, if possible
If you’re updating the child’s gender identifier, you may need to provide extra documents.
If you’re applying for a child undergoing public probationary adoption
You also need to include a letter from the director of family services confirming
- that the child is undergoing an adoption process
- the name of the future adoptive parents
If you aren’t the legal guardian or the person with parental authority
You also need to include a letter from either
- the child’s legal guardian or
- the person with parental authority
The letter needs to
- indicate what your relationship to the child is
- authorize you to apply for their passport and have it released to you
3. Find a guarantor
You need a guarantor to sign
- your child’s application and
- 1 of the 2 passport photos
The guarantor must
- have known you personally for at least 2 years and
- know of the child
Avoid this mistake
Don’t forget to
- get the guarantor’s signature on the back of 1 of the 2 photos
- if applicable, submit all documents that refer to the child’s custody, mobility or access (opens in a new tab)
4. Submit your application and pay your fees
If you’re applying in person and need your passport in 2 to 9 business days
You may need to provide proof that you need the passport.
By appointment
You can book an appointment online (opens in a new tab).
Some locations have a high demand for appointments. Their availability may vary.
Without an appointment (walk-in)
Go to a passport office with express pick-up service (opens in a new tab) .
If the location is busy, we may prioritize people who need a passport within 48 hours.
Paying your fees
Your fees depend on what services you’re getting. How you can pay them depends on how you’re applying.
Fees for child passport services (express pickup)
| Passport type | CAN$ |
|---|---|
| Child passport | 57 |
There are other fees for
- express pickup
- replacing a lost or stolen passport
- other administrative services
| Services | CAN$ |
|---|---|
| Express pickup (within 2 to 9 business days) | 50 |
Additional administrative fee for replacing a valid lost or stolen passport You must pay this fee if you report a passport as lost or stolen and are applying for a replacement. This fee does not include the cost of the new passport. |
45 |
| File transfer (to a different passport office in Canada) | 45 |
How to pay your fees in person
You can pay using any of the following:
- credit card or prepaid card (Visa®, MasterCard® or American Express®)
- debit card
- certified cheque or money order (postal or bank)
- in Canadian funds
- with the exact amount
- cheque from Canadian provincial, territorial or federal government departments
- For example, the Ministry of Social Services.
All cheques must be made payable to the Receiver General for Canada.
We don’t accept cash or personal cheques.
You can’t pay online for in-Canada services.
You won’t get a refund for the service fee if you
- cancel your application
- are refused a travel document
- are issued a passport for a shorter validity period than requested
- For example, if we issue a passport that’s valid for less than 5 years, despite you applying for a 5- or 10-year passport.
- This may happen if you’ve lost your passport multiple times.
- For example, if we issue a passport that’s valid for less than 5 years, despite you applying for a 5- or 10-year passport.
Only the consular fees (opens in a new tab) , which apply to all adult applications, are refundable if a passport is not issued.
5. Get your passport
The pickup date will be indicated on your receipt.
You can send someone else to pick up your passport if they have
- valid identification and
- something in writing from you saying they’re allowed to
Never sign your child’s passport for them
- It does not need a signature until they are 16 and older.
- A parent’s or legal guardian’s signature makes it invalid.
- If you sign your child’s passport, you’ll need to apply for a new one and pay all the fees.
- Print the signature policy (PDF, 601 KB) and bring it with you when you travel in case someone asks you to sign it.
If they want, the child may sign the passport themselves. We encourage them to sign it if they’re 11 or older, but they don’t have to.
How to apply for a child passport as a foster parent or adoptive parent of a child in foster care or on probationary adoption: Get it by the end of the next business day
1. Complete the forms
- Fill out sections 1, 3 and 4.
- In section 2, answer just the first 2 questions about adoption and custody.
- You do not need to fill out sections 5 or 6. You’ll give us that information on the second form.
Including your email address makes it easier to check the status of your application online after you apply.
You also need to complete this second form:
If your passport is lost or stolen but still valid
Since your passport is still valid, you also need to
- add a complete declaration concerning a lost, stolen, inaccessible, damaged or found Canadian travel document (PDF, 1.3 MB) to your application and
- pay the extra fee for replacing a lost or stolen passport
If your passport is damaged but still valid
Since your passport is still valid, you also need to add a complete declaration concerning a lost, stolen, inaccessible, damaged or found Canadian travel document (PDF, 1.33 MB) to your application.
Get help with the form or alternate formats
- If you can’t open the form after saving it to your computer and using Adobe Reader
- in Canada or the US: contact us online or call us
- outside Canada and the US: contact the closest Canadian government office abroad
- Contact us for Braille instructions or large-print forms.
If your passport has a valid visa in it
Tell us on your form if you need the visa and want your original passport back. If you don’t, the visa could be damaged when the previous passport is cancelled.
2. Get all the required documents and the child’s passport photo
Include the following documents with the application forms:
- proof of the child’s Canadian citizenship (opens in a new tab)
- This can be a long-form birth certificate or a citizenship certificate.
- It must be the original document, not a photocopy.
- The name on the proof of citizenship is what will appear on their passport.
- This can be a long-form birth certificate or a citizenship certificate.
- any valid Canadian passport or other travel document issued in the child’s name
- 2 identical passport photos of the child
- On the back of one of the photos, the photographer must write
- the name of their studio
- its complete address
- the date the photos were taken
- Your guarantor (opens in a new tab) must also sign the back of this photo.
- Read the full photo requirements (opens in a new tab) for more information.
- On the back of one of the photos, the photographer must write
You also need these extra documents for a child in foster care or undergoing probationary adoption:
- a letter from the director of family services that proves the identity of the child’s legal guardian or person with parental authority
- a copy of court orders or agreements involving the child and family services
- If you can’t forward the court order or agreement documents for confidentiality reasons, include a summary of the court orders or agreements.
- The summary needs to include
- the name of the child’s legal guardian or the person who has parental authority
- if a mobility restriction clause exists and the details of the restriction
- the date and file number of the court order, if possible
If you’re updating the child’s gender identifier, you may need to provide extra documents.
If you’re applying for a child undergoing public probationary adoption
You also need to include a letter from the director of family services confirming
- that the child is undergoing an adoption process
- the name of the future adoptive parents
If you aren’t the legal guardian or the person with parental authority
You also need to include a letter from either
- the child’s legal guardian or
- the person with parental authority
The letter needs to
- indicate what your relationship to the child is
- authorize you to apply for their passport and have it released to you
3. Find a guarantor
You need a guarantor to sign
- your child’s application and
- 1 of the 2 passport photos
The guarantor must
- have known you personally for at least 2 years and
- know of the child
Avoid this mistake
Don’t forget to
- get the guarantor’s signature on the back of 1 of the 2 photos
- if applicable, submit all documents that refer to the child’s custody, mobility or access (opens in a new tab)
4. Submit your application and pay your fees
If you need your passport by end of next business day
- Go to a passport office with urgent pick-up(opens in a new tab) .
- You do not need an appointment.
- You must provide proof that you need the passport.
- Make sure it’s a passport office and not a regular Service Canada Centre or you won’t get your passport in time.
- You can check walk-in wait times(opens in a new tab) before you go.
Paying your fees
Your fees depend on what services you’re getting. How you can pay them depends on how you’re applying.
Fees for child passport service (urgent pickup)
| Passport type | CAN$ |
|---|---|
| Child passport | 57 |
There are other fees for
- urgent pickup
- replacing a lost or stolen passport
- other administrative services
| Services | CAN$ |
|---|---|
| Urgent pickup (by the end of the next business day) | 110 |
Additional administrative fee for replacing a valid lost or stolen passport You must pay this fee if you report a passport as lost or stolen and are applying for a replacement. This fee does not include the cost of the new passport. |
45 |
| File transfer (to a different passport office in Canada) | 45 |
How to pay your fees in person
You can pay using any of the following:
- credit card or prepaid card (Visa®, MasterCard® or American Express®)
- debit card
- certified cheque or money order (postal or bank)
- in Canadian funds
- with the exact amount
- cheque from Canadian provincial, territorial or federal government departments
- For example, the Ministry of Social Services.
All cheques must be made payable to the Receiver General for Canada.
We don’t accept cash or personal cheques.
You can’t pay online for in-Canada services.
You won’t get a refund for the service fee if you
- cancel your application
- are refused a travel document
- are issued a passport for a shorter validity period than requested
- For example, if we issue a passport that’s valid for less than 5 years, despite you applying for a 5- or 10-year passport.
- This may happen if you’ve lost your passport multiple times.
- For example, if we issue a passport that’s valid for less than 5 years, despite you applying for a 5- or 10-year passport.
Only the consular fees (opens in a new tab) , which apply to all adult applications, are refundable if a passport is not issued.
5. Get your passport
The pickup date will be indicated on your receipt.
You can send someone else to pick up your passport if they have
- valid identification and
- something in writing from you saying they’re allowed to
Never sign your child’s passport for them
- It does not need a signature until they are 16 and older.
- A parent’s or legal guardian’s signature makes it invalid.
- If you sign your child’s passport, you’ll need to apply for a new one and pay all the fees.
- Print the signature policy (PDF, 601 KB) and bring it with you when you travel in case someone asks you to sign it.
If they want, the child may sign the passport themselves. We encourage them to sign it if they’re 11 or older, but they don’t have to.
How to apply for a child passport as a foster parent or adoptive parent of a child in foster care or on probationary adoption: Get it on a weekend or statutory holiday
1. Complete the forms
- Fill out sections 1, 3 and 4.
- In section 2, answer just the first 2 questions about adoption and custody.
- You do not need to fill out sections 5 or 6. You’ll give us that information on the second form.
Including your email address makes it easier to check the status of your application online after you apply.
You also need to complete this second form:
If your passport is lost or stolen but still valid
Since your passport is still valid, you also need to
- add a complete declaration concerning a lost, stolen, inaccessible, damaged or found Canadian travel document (PDF, 1.3 MB) to your application and
- pay the extra fee for replacing a lost or stolen passport
If your passport is damaged but still valid
Since your passport is still valid, you also need to add a complete declaration concerning a lost, stolen, inaccessible, damaged or found Canadian travel document (PDF, 1.33 MB) to your application.
Get help with the form or alternate formats
- If you can’t open the form after saving it to your computer and using Adobe Reader
- in Canada or the US: contact us online or call us
- outside Canada and the US: contact the closest Canadian government office abroad
- Contact us for Braille instructions or large-print forms.
If your passport has a valid visa in it
Tell us on your form if you need the visa and want your original passport back. If you don’t, the visa could be damaged when the previous passport is cancelled.
2. Get all the required documents and the child’s passport photo
Include the following documents with the application forms:
- proof of the child’s Canadian citizenship (opens in a new tab)
- This can be a long-form birth certificate or a citizenship certificate.
- It must be the original document, not a photocopy.
- The name on the proof of citizenship is what will appear on their passport.
- This can be a long-form birth certificate or a citizenship certificate.
- any valid Canadian passport or other travel document issued in the child’s name
- 2 identical passport photos of the child
- On the back of one of the photos, the photographer must write
- the name of their studio
- its complete address
- the date the photos were taken
- Your guarantor (opens in a new tab) must also sign the back of this photo.
- Read the full photo requirements (opens in a new tab) for more information.
- On the back of one of the photos, the photographer must write
You also need these extra documents for a child in foster care or undergoing probationary adoption:
- a letter from the director of family services that proves the identity of the child’s legal guardian or person with parental authority
- a copy of court orders or agreements involving the child and family services
- If you can’t forward the court order or agreement documents for confidentiality reasons, include a summary of the court orders or agreements.
- The summary needs to include
- the name of the child’s legal guardian or the person who has parental authority
- if a mobility restriction clause exists and the details of the restriction
- the date and file number of the court order, if possible
If you’re updating the child’s gender identifier, you may need to provide extra documents.
If you’re applying for a child undergoing public probationary adoption
You also need to include a letter from the director of family services confirming
- that the child is undergoing an adoption process
- the name of the future adoptive parents
If you aren’t the legal guardian or the person with parental authority
You also need to include a letter from either
- the child’s legal guardian or
- the person with parental authority
The letter needs to
- indicate what your relationship to the child is
- authorize you to apply for their passport and have it released to you
3. Find a guarantor
You need a guarantor to sign
- your child’s application and
- 1 of the 2 passport photos
The guarantor must
- have known you personally for at least 2 years and
- know of the child
Avoid this mistake
Don’t forget to
- get the guarantor’s signature on the back of 1 of the 2 photos
- if applicable, submit all documents that refer to the child’s custody, mobility or access (opens in a new tab)
4. Call us and pay the fees (weekend or statutory holiday)
Call us ahead of time at 1-800-567-6868 to find out how to submit the application. We answer the phone Monday to Friday
- from 8:30 am to 5 pm (your local time)
- from 9:00 am to 5:30 pm (Newfoundland)
- except for statutory holidays
You must provide proof you need the passport.
Get information on emergency passport services outside these hours
You can leave a message and ask for us to call you back
- on Friday or a weekday before a statutory holiday after 5 pm (your local time), 5:30 pm (Newfoundland)
- on Saturday or Sunday
We’ll call you with information on emergency services between 9 am and 5 pm (your local time).
Paying your fees
To get the weekend or statutory holiday service, you need to pay an additional $335 on top of the regular passport fees.
If you need the weekend or holiday service for your family members at the same time, you need to pay an urgent service fee of $110 per family member.
For example, if you apply for a 10-year passport for yourself and a 5-year passport for your child, the fees will be
- $160 for your passport
- $335 for your weekend or statutory holiday service
- $57 for the child’s passport
- $110 for the child’s urgent service
Fees for weekend or statutory holiday passport service
| Passport type | CAN$ |
|---|---|
| 5-year adult passport (age 16 or over) | 120 |
| 10-year adult passport (age 16 or over) | 160 |
| Child passport (0 to 15 years of age) | 57 |
There are other fees for
- replacing a lost or stolen passport
- other administrative services
| Services | CAN$ |
|---|---|
Weekend or statutory holiday This service is only
|
335 |
Additional administrative fee for replacing a valid lost or stolen passport You must pay this fee if you report a passport as lost or stolen and are applying for a replacement. This fee does not include the cost of the new passport. |
45 |
| File transfer (to a different passport office in Canada) | 45 |
How to pay your fees in person
5. Get your passport
The pickup date will be indicated on your receipt.
You can send someone else to pick up your passport if they have
- valid identification and
- something in writing from you saying they’re allowed to
Never sign your child’s passport for them
- It does not need a signature until they are 16 and older.
- A parent’s or legal guardian’s signature makes it invalid.
- If you sign your child’s passport, you’ll need to apply for a new one and pay all the fees.
- Print the signature policy (PDF, 601 KB) and bring it with you when you travel in case someone asks you to sign it.
If they want, the child may sign the passport themselves. We encourage them to sign it if they’re 11 or older, but they don’t have to.
How to apply for a child passport as a foster parent or adoptive parent of a child on private probationary adoption: Get it in 10 to 20 business days or more (Apply in person)
1. Complete the forms
- Fill out sections 1, 3 and 4.
- In section 2, answer just the first 2 questions about adoption and custody.
- You do not need to fill out sections 5 or 6. You’ll give us that information on the second form.
Including your email address makes it easier to check the status of your application online after you apply.
You also need to complete this second form:
If your passport is lost or stolen but still valid
Since your passport is still valid, you also need to
- add a complete declaration concerning a lost, stolen, inaccessible, damaged or found Canadian travel document (PDF, 1.3 MB) to your application and
- pay the extra fee for replacing a lost or stolen passport
If your passport is damaged but still valid
Since your passport is still valid, you also need to add a complete declaration concerning a lost, stolen, inaccessible, damaged or found Canadian travel document (PDF, 1.33 MB) to your application.
Get help with the form or alternate formats
- If you can’t open the form after saving it to your computer and using Adobe Reader
- in Canada or the US: contact us online or call us
- outside Canada and the US: contact the closest Canadian government office abroad
- Contact us for Braille instructions or large-print forms.
If your passport has a valid visa in it
Tell us on your form if you need the visa and want your original passport back. If you don’t, the visa could be damaged when the previous passport is cancelled.
2. Get all the required documents and the child’s passport photo
Include the following documents with the application forms:
- proof of the child’s Canadian citizenship (opens in a new tab)
- This can be a long-form birth certificate or a citizenship certificate.
- It must be the original document, not a photocopy.
- The name on the proof of citizenship is what will appear on their passport.
- This can be a long-form birth certificate or a citizenship certificate.
- any valid Canadian passport or other travel document issued in the child’s name
- 2 identical passport photos of the child
- On the back of one of the photos, the photographer must write
- the name of their studio
- its complete address
- the date the photos were taken
- Your guarantor (opens in a new tab) must also sign the back of this photo.
- Read the full photo requirements (opens in a new tab) for more information.
- On the back of one of the photos, the photographer must write
You also need these extra documents for a child undergoing a private probationary adoption:
- the consent to adoption signed by the biological parents
- a letter from the licensee of the adoption agency showing all of the following:
- the name of the child’s legal guardian or the person who has parental authority
- that a private adoption is in process
- that all the adoption consents have been obtained
- that the time period for cancelling the adoption has expired
- If the time period has not expired, we can’t issue a passport unless the biological parents consent to it.
- a copy of court orders or agreements involving the child and the adoption agency
- If you can’t forward the court order or agreement documents for confidentiality reasons, include a summary of the court orders or agreements.
- The summary needs to include
- the name of the child’s legal guardian or the person who has parental authority
- if a mobility restriction clause exists and the details of the restriction
- the date and file number of the court order, when possible
- the custody or guardianship agreement signed by the child’s biological parents and the future adoptive parents for the duration of the adoption process, if an agreement exists
If you’re updating the child’s gender identifier, you may need to provide extra documents.
If you aren’t the legal guardian or the person with parental authority
You also need to include a letter from either
- the child’s legal guardian or
- the person with parental authority
The letter needs to
- indicate what your relationship to the child is
- authorize you to apply for their passport and have it released to you
3. Find a guarantor
You need a guarantor to sign
- your child’s application and
- 1 of the 2 passport photos
The guarantor must
- have known you personally for at least 2 years and
- know of the child
Avoid this mistake
Don’t forget to
- get the guarantor’s signature on the back of 1 of the 2 photos
- if applicable, submit all documents that refer to the child’s custody, mobility or access (opens in a new tab)
4. Submit your application and pay your fees
If you’re applying in person and need your passport in 10-20 business days
By appointment
You can book an appointment online (opens in a new tab) .
Some locations have a high demand for appointments. Their availability may vary.
Without an appointment (walk-in)
You can get walk-in services at a Service Canada Centre or a passport office (opens in a new tab) .
Wait times may be long at some passport offices. If the location is busy, we may prioritize people who need a passport within 48 hours.
Someone else can submit your application for you if you can’t go yourself. Learn more about who can submit a passport application on your behalf (opens in a new tab) .
Paying your fees
Your fees depend on what services you’re getting. How you can pay them depends on how you’re applying.
Fees for child passport services
| Passport type | CAN$ |
|---|---|
| Child passport | 57 |
There are other fees for
- standard pickup at a passport office
- replacing a lost or stolen passport
- other administrative services
| Services | CAN$ |
|---|---|
| Standard pickup (on or after 10 business days) | 20 |
Additional administrative fee for replacing a valid lost or stolen passport You must pay this fee if you report a passport as lost or stolen and are applying for a replacement. This fee does not include the cost of the new passport. |
45 |
| File transfer (to a different passport office in Canada) | 45 |
How to pay your fees in person
You can pay using any of the following:
- credit card or prepaid card (Visa®, MasterCard® or American Express®)
- debit card
- certified cheque or money order (postal or bank)
- in Canadian funds
- with the exact amount
- cheque from Canadian provincial, territorial or federal government departments
- For example, the Ministry of Social Services.
All cheques must be made payable to the Receiver General for Canada.
We don’t accept cash or personal cheques.
You can’t pay online for in-Canada services.
You won’t get a refund for the service fee if you
- cancel your application
- are refused a travel document
- are issued a passport for a shorter validity period than requested
- For example, if we issue a passport that’s valid for less than 5 years, despite you applying for a 5- or 10-year passport.
- This may happen if you’ve lost your passport multiple times.
- For example, if we issue a passport that’s valid for less than 5 years, despite you applying for a 5- or 10-year passport.
Only the consular fees (opens in a new tab) , which apply to all adult applications, are refundable if a passport is not issued.
5. Get your passport
When your passport is processed, it will be mailed to you unless you paid for pick-up service. Mail time is usually 5 business days, but it can vary across the country.
Wildfires in parts of Canada may affect the delivery of passports by mail
Contact us if you need your passport urgently and
- you can’t access your mail
- you’ve asked to have your passport delivered to you
While you’re waiting for your passport, you can check the status of your application online (opens in a new tab) for instant updates.
If you applied by mail
Any original documents you submitted will be mailed back to you. They may be in a separate package than your passport.
If you paid for a pick-up service
The pickup date will be indicated on your receipt.
You can send someone else to pick up your passport if they have
- valid identification and
- something in writing from you saying they’re allowed to
Never sign your child’s passport for them
- It does not need a signature until they are 16 and older.
- A parent’s or legal guardian’s signature makes it invalid.
- If you sign your child’s passport, you’ll need to apply for a new one and pay all the fees.
- Print the signature policy (PDF, 601 KB) and bring it with you when you travel in case someone asks you to sign it.
If they want, the child may sign the passport themselves. We encourage them to sign it if they’re 11 or older, but they don’t have to.
If you’re moving, but haven’t received your passport yet
Contact us to update your mailing address if you
- haven’t received your passport and
- are moving within 30 days of submitting your application
If you have a community mailbox, make sure you check it before you contact us about your application.
How to apply for a child passport as a foster parent or adoptive parent of a child on private probationary adoption: Get it in 10 to 20 business days or more (Apply by mail)
1. Complete the forms
- Fill out sections 1, 3 and 4.
- In section 2, answer just the first 2 questions about adoption and custody.
- You do not need to fill out sections 5 or 6. You’ll give us that information on the second form.
Including your email address makes it easier to check the status of your application online after you apply.
You also need to complete this second form:
If your passport is lost or stolen but still valid
Since your passport is still valid, you also need to
- add a complete declaration concerning a lost, stolen, inaccessible, damaged or found Canadian travel document (PDF, 1.3 MB) to your application and
- pay the extra fee for replacing a lost or stolen passport
If your passport is damaged but still valid
Since your passport is still valid, you also need to add a complete declaration concerning a lost, stolen, inaccessible, damaged or found Canadian travel document (PDF, 1.33 MB) to your application.
Get help with the form or alternate formats
- If you can’t open the form after saving it to your computer and using Adobe Reader
- in Canada or the US: contact us online or call us
- outside Canada and the US: contact the closest Canadian government office abroad
- Contact us for Braille instructions or large-print forms.
If your passport has a valid visa in it
Tell us on your form if you need the visa and want your original passport back. If you don’t, the visa could be damaged when the previous passport is cancelled.
2. Get all the required documents and the child’s passport photo
Include the following documents with the application forms:
- proof of the child’s Canadian citizenship (opens in a new tab)
- This can be a long-form birth certificate or a citizenship certificate.
- It must be the original document, not a photocopy.
- The name on the proof of citizenship is what will appear on their passport.
- This can be a long-form birth certificate or a citizenship certificate.
- any valid Canadian passport or other travel document issued in the child’s name
- 2 identical passport photos of the child
- On the back of one of the photos, the photographer must write
- the name of their studio
- its complete address
- the date the photos were taken
- Your guarantor (opens in a new tab) must also sign the back of this photo.
- Read the full photo requirements (opens in a new tab) for more information.
- On the back of one of the photos, the photographer must write
You also need these extra documents for a child undergoing a private probationary adoption:
- the consent to adoption signed by the biological parents
- a letter from the licensee of the adoption agency showing all of the following:
- the name of the child’s legal guardian or the person who has parental authority
- that a private adoption is in process
- that all the adoption consents have been obtained
- that the time period for cancelling the adoption has expired
- If the time period has not expired, we can’t issue a passport unless the biological parents consent to it.
- a copy of court orders or agreements involving the child and the adoption agency
- If you can’t forward the court order or agreement documents for confidentiality reasons, include a summary of the court orders or agreements.
- The summary needs to include
- the name of the child’s legal guardian or the person who has parental authority
- if a mobility restriction clause exists and the details of the restriction
- the date and file number of the court order, when possible
- the custody or guardianship agreement signed by the child’s biological parents and the future adoptive parents for the duration of the adoption process, if an agreement exists
If you’re updating the child’s gender identifier, you may need to provide extra documents.
If you aren’t the legal guardian or the person with parental authority
You also need to include a letter from either
- the child’s legal guardian or
- the person with parental authority
The letter needs to
- indicate what your relationship to the child is
- authorize you to apply for their passport and have it released to you
3. Find a guarantor
You need a guarantor to sign
- your child’s application and
- 1 of the 2 passport photos
The guarantor must
- have known you personally for at least 2 years and
- know of the child
Avoid this mistake
Don’t forget to
- get the guarantor’s signature on the back of 1 of the 2 photos
- if applicable, submit all documents that refer to the child’s custody, mobility or access (opens in a new tab)
4. Submit your application and pay your fees
Submit the application by mail from Alberta, Manitoba, Ontario, Quebec or Saskatchewan
Service standards don’t include mailing time. Mailing times vary across the country.
Use a certified courier or traceable mail service to reduce the delivery time of your application and help protect your documents.
Mailed applications must be sent by courier
Due to the Canada Post labour disruption, you need to use a courier to apply by mail.
Courier address
Government of Canada
Passport Program
22 De Varennes Street
Gatineau, Quebec J8T 8R1
Submit the application by mail from British Columbia, Northwest Territories, Nunavut or Yukon
Service standards don’t include mailing time. Mailing times vary across the country.
Use a certified courier or traceable mail service to reduce the delivery time of your application and help protect your documents.
Mailed applications must be sent by courier
Due to the Canada Post labour disruption, you need to use a courier to apply by mail.
Courier address
Government of Canada
Passport Program
22 De Varennes Street
Gatineau, Quebec J8T 8R1
Submit the application by mail from New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador, Nova Scotia or Prince Edward Island
Service standards don’t include mailing time. Mailing times vary across the country.
Use a certified courier or traceable mail service to reduce the delivery time of your application and help protect your documents.
Mailed applications must be sent by courier
Due to the Canada Post labour disruption, you need to use a courier to apply by mail.
Courier address
Government of Canada
Passport Program
22 De Varennes Street
Gatineau, Quebec J8T 8R1
Paying your fees
Your fees depend on what services you’re getting. How you can pay them depends on how you’re applying.
Fees for child passport services
| Passport type | CAN$ |
|---|---|
| Child passport | 57 |
There are other fees for
- replacing a lost or stolen passport
- other administrative services
| Services | CAN$ |
|---|---|
Additional administrative fee for replacing a valid lost or stolen passport You must pay this fee if you report a passport as lost or stolen and are applying for a replacement. This fee does not include the cost of the new passport. |
45 |
| File transfer (to a different passport office in Canada) | 45 |
How to pay your fees by mail
Fill out the payment section on your application form with any of the following:
- a credit card (Visa®, MasterCard® or American Express®)
- an embossed prepaid card that has raised letters or numbers (Visa®, MasterCard® or American Express®)
- a certified cheque or money order (postal or bank)
- in Canadian funds
- with the exact amount
- cheque from Canadian provincial, territorial or federal government departments
- For example, the Ministry of Social Services.
- All cheques must be made payable to the Receiver General for Canada.
- For example, the Ministry of Social Services.
We don’t accept cash or personal cheques.
You can’t pay online for in-Canada services.
You won’t get a refund for the service fee if you
- cancel your application
- are refused a travel document
- are issued a passport for a shorter validity period than requested
- For example, if we issue a passport that’s valid for less than 5 years, despite you applying for a 5- or 10-year passport.
- This may happen if you’ve lost your passport multiple times.
- For example, if we issue a passport that’s valid for less than 5 years, despite you applying for a 5- or 10-year passport.
Only the consular fees (opens in a new tab) , which apply to all adult applications, are refundable if a passport is not issued.
5. Get your passport
When your passport is processed, it will be mailed to you unless you paid for pick-up service. Mail time is usually 5 business days, but it can vary across the country.
Any original documents you submitted will be mailed back to you. They may be in a separate package than your passport.
While you’re waiting for your passport, you can check the status of your application online (opens in a new tab) for instant updates.
Never sign your child’s passport for them
- It does not need a signature until they are 16 and older.
- A parent’s or legal guardian’s signature makes it invalid.
- If you sign your child’s passport, you’ll need to apply for a new one and pay all the fees.
- Print the signature policy (PDF, 601 KB) and bring it with you when you travel in case someone asks you to sign it.
If they want, the child may sign the passport themselves. We encourage them to sign it if they’re 11 or older, but they don’t have to.
If you’re moving, but haven’t received your passport yet
Contact us to update your mailing address if you
- haven’t received your passport and
- are moving within 30 days of submitting your application
If you have a community mailbox, make sure you check it before you contact us about your application.
How to apply for a child passport as a foster parent or adoptive parent of a child on private probationary adoption: Get it in 2 to 9 business days
1. Complete the forms
- Fill out sections 1, 3 and 4.
- In section 2, answer just the first 2 questions about adoption and custody.
- You do not need to fill out sections 5 or 6. You’ll give us that information on the second form.
Including your email address makes it easier to check the status of your application online after you apply.
You also need to complete this second form:
If your passport is lost or stolen but still valid
Since your passport is still valid, you also need to
- add a complete declaration concerning a lost, stolen, inaccessible, damaged or found Canadian travel document (PDF, 1.3 MB) to your application and
- pay the extra fee for replacing a lost or stolen passport
If your passport is damaged but still valid
Since your passport is still valid, you also need to add a complete declaration concerning a lost, stolen, inaccessible, damaged or found Canadian travel document (PDF, 1.33 MB) to your application.
Get help with the form or alternate formats
- If you can’t open the form after saving it to your computer and using Adobe Reader
- in Canada or the US: contact us online or call us
- outside Canada and the US: contact the closest Canadian government office abroad
- Contact us for Braille instructions or large-print forms.
If your passport has a valid visa in it
Tell us on your form if you need the visa and want your original passport back. If you don’t, the visa could be damaged when the previous passport is cancelled.
2. Get all the required documents and the child’s passport photo
Include the following documents with the application forms:
- proof of the child’s Canadian citizenship (opens in a new tab)
- This can be a long-form birth certificate or a citizenship certificate.
- It must be the original document, not a photocopy.
- The name on the proof of citizenship is what will appear on their passport.
- This can be a long-form birth certificate or a citizenship certificate.
- any valid Canadian passport or other travel document issued in the child’s name
- 2 identical passport photos of the child
- On the back of one of the photos, the photographer must write
- the name of their studio
- its complete address
- the date the photos were taken
- Your guarantor (opens in a new tab) must also sign the back of this photo.
- Read the full photo requirements (opens in a new tab) for more information.
- On the back of one of the photos, the photographer must write
You also need these extra documents for a child undergoing a private probationary adoption:
- the consent to adoption signed by the biological parents
- a letter from the licensee of the adoption agency showing all of the following:
- the name of the child’s legal guardian or the person who has parental authority
- that a private adoption is in process
- that all the adoption consents have been obtained
- that the time period for cancelling the adoption has expired
- If the time period has not expired, we can’t issue a passport unless the biological parents consent to it.
- a copy of court orders or agreements involving the child and the adoption agency
- If you can’t forward the court order or agreement documents for confidentiality reasons, include a summary of the court orders or agreements.
- The summary needs to include
- the name of the child’s legal guardian or the person who has parental authority
- if a mobility restriction clause exists and the details of the restriction
- the date and file number of the court order, when possible
- the custody or guardianship agreement signed by the child’s biological parents and the future adoptive parents for the duration of the adoption process, if an agreement exists
If you’re updating the child’s gender identifier, you may need to provide extra documents.
If you aren’t the legal guardian or the person with parental authority
You also need to include a letter from either
- the child’s legal guardian or
- the person with parental authority
The letter needs to
- indicate what your relationship to the child is
- authorize you to apply for their passport and have it released to you
3. Find a guarantor
You need a guarantor to sign
- your child’s application and
- 1 of the 2 passport photos
The guarantor must
- have known you personally for at least 2 years and
- know of the child
Avoid this mistake
Don’t forget to
- get the guarantor’s signature on the back of 1 of the 2 photos
- if applicable, submit all documents that refer to the child’s custody, mobility or access (opens in a new tab)
4. Submit your application and pay your fees
If you’re applying in person and need your passport in 2 to 9 business days
You may need to provide proof that you need the passport.
By appointment
You can book an appointment online (opens in a new tab).
Some locations have a high demand for appointments. Their availability may vary.
Without an appointment (walk-in)
Go to a passport office with express pick-up service (opens in a new tab) .
If the location is busy, we may prioritize people who need a passport within 48 hours.
Paying your fees
Your fees depend on what services you’re getting. How you can pay them depends on how you’re applying.
Fees for child passport services (express pickup)
| Passport type | CAN$ |
|---|---|
| Child passport | 57 |
There are other fees for
- express pickup
- replacing a lost or stolen passport
- other administrative services
| Services | CAN$ |
|---|---|
| Express pickup (within 2 to 9 business days) | 50 |
Additional administrative fee for replacing a valid lost or stolen passport You must pay this fee if you report a passport as lost or stolen and are applying for a replacement. This fee does not include the cost of the new passport. |
45 |
| File transfer (to a different passport office in Canada) | 45 |
How to pay your fees in person
You can pay using any of the following:
- credit card or prepaid card (Visa®, MasterCard® or American Express®)
- debit card
- certified cheque or money order (postal or bank)
- in Canadian funds
- with the exact amount
- cheque from Canadian provincial, territorial or federal government departments
- For example, the Ministry of Social Services.
All cheques must be made payable to the Receiver General for Canada.
We don’t accept cash or personal cheques.
You can’t pay online for in-Canada services.
You won’t get a refund for the service fee if you
- cancel your application
- are refused a travel document
- are issued a passport for a shorter validity period than requested
- For example, if we issue a passport that’s valid for less than 5 years, despite you applying for a 5- or 10-year passport.
- This may happen if you’ve lost your passport multiple times.
- For example, if we issue a passport that’s valid for less than 5 years, despite you applying for a 5- or 10-year passport.
Only the consular fees (opens in a new tab) , which apply to all adult applications, are refundable if a passport is not issued.
5. Get your passport
The pickup date will be indicated on your receipt.
You can send someone else to pick up your passport if they have
- valid identification and
- something in writing from you saying they’re allowed to
Never sign your child’s passport for them
- It does not need a signature until they are 16 and older.
- A parent’s or legal guardian’s signature makes it invalid.
- If you sign your child’s passport, you’ll need to apply for a new one and pay all the fees.
- Print the signature policy (PDF, 601 KB) and bring it with you when you travel in case someone asks you to sign it.
If they want, the child may sign the passport themselves. We encourage them to sign it if they’re 11 or older, but they don’t have to.
How to apply for a child passport as a foster parent or adoptive parent of a child on private probationary adoption: Get it by the end of the next business day
1. Complete the forms
- Fill out sections 1, 3 and 4.
- In section 2, answer just the first 2 questions about adoption and custody.
- You do not need to fill out sections 5 or 6. You’ll give us that information on the second form.
Including your email address makes it easier to check the status of your application online after you apply.
You also need to complete this second form:
If your passport is lost or stolen but still valid
Since your passport is still valid, you also need to
- add a complete declaration concerning a lost, stolen, inaccessible, damaged or found Canadian travel document (PDF, 1.3 MB) to your application and
- pay the extra fee for replacing a lost or stolen passport
If your passport is damaged but still valid
Since your passport is still valid, you also need to add a complete declaration concerning a lost, stolen, inaccessible, damaged or found Canadian travel document (PDF, 1.33 MB) to your application.
Get help with the form or alternate formats
- If you can’t open the form after saving it to your computer and using Adobe Reader
- in Canada or the US: contact us online or call us
- outside Canada and the US: contact the closest Canadian government office abroad
- Contact us for Braille instructions or large-print forms.
If your passport has a valid visa in it
Tell us on your form if you need the visa and want your original passport back. If you don’t, the visa could be damaged when the previous passport is cancelled.
2. Get all the required documents and the child’s passport photo
Include the following documents with the application forms:
- proof of the child’s Canadian citizenship (opens in a new tab)
- This can be a long-form birth certificate or a citizenship certificate.
- It must be the original document, not a photocopy.
- The name on the proof of citizenship is what will appear on their passport.
- This can be a long-form birth certificate or a citizenship certificate.
- any valid Canadian passport or other travel document issued in the child’s name
- 2 identical passport photos of the child
- On the back of one of the photos, the photographer must write
- the name of their studio
- its complete address
- the date the photos were taken
- Your guarantor (opens in a new tab) must also sign the back of this photo.
- Read the full photo requirements (opens in a new tab) for more information.
- On the back of one of the photos, the photographer must write
You also need these extra documents for a child undergoing a private probationary adoption:
- the consent to adoption signed by the biological parents
- a letter from the licensee of the adoption agency showing all of the following:
- the name of the child’s legal guardian or the person who has parental authority
- that a private adoption is in process
- that all the adoption consents have been obtained
- that the time period for cancelling the adoption has expired
- If the time period has not expired, we can’t issue a passport unless the biological parents consent to it.
- a copy of court orders or agreements involving the child and the adoption agency
- If you can’t forward the court order or agreement documents for confidentiality reasons, include a summary of the court orders or agreements.
- The summary needs to include
- the name of the child’s legal guardian or the person who has parental authority
- if a mobility restriction clause exists and the details of the restriction
- the date and file number of the court order, when possible
- the custody or guardianship agreement signed by the child’s biological parents and the future adoptive parents for the duration of the adoption process, if an agreement exists
If you’re updating the child’s gender identifier, you may need to provide extra documents.
If you aren’t the legal guardian or the person with parental authority
You also need to include a letter from either
- the child’s legal guardian or
- the person with parental authority
The letter needs to
- indicate what your relationship to the child is
- authorize you to apply for their passport and have it released to you
3. Find a guarantor
You need a guarantor to sign
- your child’s application and
- 1 of the 2 passport photos
The guarantor must
- have known you personally for at least 2 years and
- know of the child
Avoid this mistake
Don’t forget to
- get the guarantor’s signature on the back of 1 of the 2 photos
- if applicable, submit all documents that refer to the child’s custody, mobility or access (opens in a new tab)
4. Submit your application and pay your fees
If you need your passport by end of next business day
- Go to a passport office with urgent pick-up(opens in a new tab) .
- You do not need an appointment.
- You must provide proof that you need the passport.
- Make sure it’s a passport office and not a regular Service Canada Centre or you won’t get your passport in time.
- You can check walk-in wait times(opens in a new tab) before you go.
Paying your fees
Your fees depend on what services you’re getting. How you can pay them depends on how you’re applying.
Fees for child passport service (urgent pickup)
| Passport type | CAN$ |
|---|---|
| Child passport | 57 |
There are other fees for
- urgent pickup
- replacing a lost or stolen passport
- other administrative services
| Services | CAN$ |
|---|---|
| Urgent pickup (by the end of the next business day) | 110 |
Additional administrative fee for replacing a valid lost or stolen passport You must pay this fee if you report a passport as lost or stolen and are applying for a replacement. This fee does not include the cost of the new passport. |
45 |
| File transfer (to a different passport office in Canada) | 45 |
How to pay your fees in person
You can pay using any of the following:
- credit card or prepaid card (Visa®, MasterCard® or American Express®)
- debit card
- certified cheque or money order (postal or bank)
- in Canadian funds
- with the exact amount
- cheque from Canadian provincial, territorial or federal government departments
- For example, the Ministry of Social Services.
All cheques must be made payable to the Receiver General for Canada.
We don’t accept cash or personal cheques.
You can’t pay online for in-Canada services.
You won’t get a refund for the service fee if you
- cancel your application
- are refused a travel document
- are issued a passport for a shorter validity period than requested
- For example, if we issue a passport that’s valid for less than 5 years, despite you applying for a 5- or 10-year passport.
- This may happen if you’ve lost your passport multiple times.
- For example, if we issue a passport that’s valid for less than 5 years, despite you applying for a 5- or 10-year passport.
Only the consular fees (opens in a new tab) , which apply to all adult applications, are refundable if a passport is not issued.
5. Get your passport
The pickup date will be indicated on your receipt.
You can send someone else to pick up your passport if they have
- valid identification and
- something in writing from you saying they’re allowed to
Never sign your child’s passport for them
- It does not need a signature until they are 16 and older.
- A parent’s or legal guardian’s signature makes it invalid.
- If you sign your child’s passport, you’ll need to apply for a new one and pay all the fees.
- Print the signature policy (PDF, 601 KB) and bring it with you when you travel in case someone asks you to sign it.
If they want, the child may sign the passport themselves. We encourage them to sign it if they’re 11 or older, but they don’t have to.
How to apply for a child passport as a foster parent or adoptive parent of a child on private probationary adoption: Get it on a weekend or statutory holiday
1. Complete the forms
- Fill out sections 1, 3 and 4.
- In section 2, answer just the first 2 questions about adoption and custody.
- You do not need to fill out sections 5 or 6. You’ll give us that information on the second form.
Including your email address makes it easier to check the status of your application online after you apply.
You also need to complete this second form:
If your passport is lost or stolen but still valid
Since your passport is still valid, you also need to
- add a complete declaration concerning a lost, stolen, inaccessible, damaged or found Canadian travel document (PDF, 1.3 MB) to your application and
- pay the extra fee for replacing a lost or stolen passport
If your passport is damaged but still valid
Since your passport is still valid, you also need to add a complete declaration concerning a lost, stolen, inaccessible, damaged or found Canadian travel document (PDF, 1.33 MB) to your application.
Get help with the form or alternate formats
- If you can’t open the form after saving it to your computer and using Adobe Reader
- in Canada or the US: contact us online or call us
- outside Canada and the US: contact the closest Canadian government office abroad
- Contact us for Braille instructions or large-print forms.
If your passport has a valid visa in it
Tell us on your form if you need the visa and want your original passport back. If you don’t, the visa could be damaged when the previous passport is cancelled.
2. Get all the required documents and the child’s passport photo
Include the following documents with the application forms:
- proof of the child’s Canadian citizenship (opens in a new tab)
- This can be a long-form birth certificate or a citizenship certificate.
- It must be the original document, not a photocopy.
- The name on the proof of citizenship is what will appear on their passport.
- This can be a long-form birth certificate or a citizenship certificate.
- any valid Canadian passport or other travel document issued in the child’s name
- 2 identical passport photos of the child
- On the back of one of the photos, the photographer must write
- the name of their studio
- its complete address
- the date the photos were taken
- Your guarantor (opens in a new tab) must also sign the back of this photo.
- Read the full photo requirements (opens in a new tab) for more information.
- On the back of one of the photos, the photographer must write
You also need these extra documents for a child in foster care or undergoing probationary adoption:
- the consent to adoption signed by the biological parents
- a letter from the licensee of the adoption agency showing all of the following:
- the name of the child’s legal guardian or the person who has parental authority
- that a private adoption is in process
- that all the adoption consents have been obtained
- that the time period for cancelling the adoption has expired
- If the time period has not expired, we can’t issue a passport unless the biological parents consent to it.
- a copy of court orders or agreements involving the child and the adoption agency
- If you can’t forward the court order or agreement documents for confidentiality reasons, include a summary of the court orders or agreements.
- The summary needs to include
- the name of the child’s legal guardian or the person who has parental authority
- if a mobility restriction clause exists and the details of the restriction
- the date and file number of the court order, when possible
- the custody or guardianship agreement signed by the child’s biological parents and the future adoptive parents for the duration of the adoption process, if an agreement exists
If you’re updating the child’s gender identifier, you may need to provide extra documents.
If you aren’t the legal guardian or the person with parental authority
You also need to include a letter from either
- the child’s legal guardian or
- the person with parental authority
The letter needs to
- indicate what your relationship to the child is
- authorize you to apply for their passport and have it released to you
3. Find a guarantor
You need a guarantor to sign
- your child’s application and
- 1 of the 2 passport photos
The guarantor must
- have known you personally for at least 2 years and
- know of the child
Avoid this mistake
Don’t forget to
- get the guarantor’s signature on the back of 1 of the 2 photos
- if applicable, submit all documents that refer to the child’s custody, mobility or access (opens in a new tab)
4. Call us and pay the fees (weekend or statutory holiday)
Call us ahead of time at 1-800-567-6868 to find out how to submit the application. We answer the phone Monday to Friday
- from 8:30 am to 5 pm (your local time)
- from 9:00 am to 5:30 pm (Newfoundland)
- except for statutory holidays
You must provide proof you need the passport.
Get information on emergency passport services outside these hours
You can leave a message and ask for us to call you back
- on Friday or a weekday before a statutory holiday after 5 pm (your local time), 5:30 pm (Newfoundland)
- on Saturday or Sunday
We’ll call you with information on emergency services between 9 am and 5 pm (your local time).
Paying your fees
To get the weekend or statutory holiday service, you need to pay an additional $335 on top of the regular passport fees.
If you need the weekend or holiday service for your family members at the same time, you need to pay an urgent service fee of $110 per family member.
For example, if you apply for a 10-year passport for yourself and a 5-year passport for your child, the fees will be
- $160 for your passport
- $335 for your weekend or statutory holiday service
- $57 for the child’s passport
- $110 for the child’s urgent service
Fees for weekend or statutory holiday passport service
| Passport type | CAN$ |
|---|---|
| 5-year adult passport (age 16 or over) | 120 |
| 10-year adult passport (age 16 or over) | 160 |
| Child passport (0 to 15 years of age) | 57 |
There are other fees for
- replacing a lost or stolen passport
- other administrative services
| Services | CAN$ |
|---|---|
Weekend or statutory holiday This service is only
|
335 |
Additional administrative fee for replacing a valid lost or stolen passport You must pay this fee if you report a passport as lost or stolen and are applying for a replacement. This fee does not include the cost of the new passport. |
45 |
| File transfer (to a different passport office in Canada) | 45 |
How to pay your fees in person
5. Get your passport
The pickup date will be indicated on your receipt.
You can send someone else to pick up your passport if they have
- valid identification and
- something in writing from you saying they’re allowed to
Never sign your child’s passport for them
- It does not need a signature until they are 16 and older.
- A parent’s or legal guardian’s signature makes it invalid.
- If you sign your child’s passport, you’ll need to apply for a new one and pay all the fees.
- Print the signature policy (PDF, 601 KB) and bring it with you when you travel in case someone asks you to sign it.
If they want, the child may sign the passport themselves. We encourage them to sign it if they’re 11 or older, but they don’t have to.
How to apply for a child passport as a director of family services, social worker or child protection worker: Get it in 10 to 20 business days or more (Apply in person)
1. Complete the forms
- Fill out sections 1, 3 and 4.
- In section 2, answer just the first 2 questions about adoption and custody.
- You do not need to fill out sections 5 or 6. You’ll give us that information on the second form.
Including your email address makes it easier to check the status of your application online after you apply.
You also need to complete this second form:
If your passport is lost or stolen but still valid
Since your passport is still valid, you also need to
- add a complete declaration concerning a lost, stolen, inaccessible, damaged or found Canadian travel document (PDF, 1.3 MB) to your application and
- pay the extra fee for replacing a lost or stolen passport
If your passport is damaged but still valid
Since your passport is still valid, you also need to add a complete declaration concerning a lost, stolen, inaccessible, damaged or found Canadian travel document (PDF, 1.33 MB) to your application.
Get help with the form or alternate formats
- If you can’t open the form after saving it to your computer and using Adobe Reader
- in Canada or the US: contact us online or call us
- outside Canada and the US: contact the closest Canadian government office abroad
- Contact us for Braille instructions or large-print forms.
If your passport has a valid visa in it
Tell us on your form if you need the visa and want your original passport back. If you don’t, the visa could be damaged when the previous passport is cancelled.
2. Get all the required documents and the child’s passport photo
Include the following documents with the application forms:
- proof of the child's Canadian citizenship (opens in a new tab)
- This can be a long-form birth certificate or a citizenship certificate.
- It must be the original document, not a photocopy.
- The name on the proof of citizenship is what will appear on their passport.
- This can be a long-form birth certificate or a citizenship certificate.
- any valid Canadian passport or other travel document issued in the child’s name
- 2 identical passport photos of the child
- On the back of one of the photos, the photographer must write
- the name of their studio
- its complete address
- the date the photos were taken
- Your guarantor (opens in a new tab) must also sign the back of this photo.
- Read the full photo requirements (opens in a new tab) for more information.
- On the back of one of the photos, the photographer must write
You also need these extra documents if you’re a director of family services, social worker or child protection worker :
- a letter from the director of family services that proves the identity of the child’s legal guardian or person with parental authority
- a copy of court orders or agreements involving the child and family services
- If you can’t forward the court order or agreement documents for confidentiality reasons, include a summary of the court orders or agreements.
- The summary needs to include
- the name of the child’s legal guardian or the person who has parental authority
- if a mobility restriction clause exists and the details of the restriction
- the date and file number of the court order, if possible
If you’re updating the child’s gender identifier, you may need to provide extra documents.
If you’re applying for a child undergoing public probationary adoption
You also need to include a letter from the director of family services confirming
- that the child is undergoing an adoption process
- the name of the future adoptive parents
If you aren’t the legal guardian or the person with parental authority
You also need to include a letter from either
- the child’s legal guardian or
- the person with parental authority
The letter needs to
- indicate what your relationship to the child is
- authorize you to apply for their passport and have it released to you
3. Find a guarantor
You need a guarantor to sign
- your child’s application and
- 1 of the 2 passport photos
The guarantor must
- have known you personally for at least 2 years and
- know of the child
Avoid this mistake
Don’t forget to
- get the guarantor’s signature on the back of 1 of the 2 photos
- if applicable, submit all documents that refer to the child’s custody, mobility or access (opens in a new tab)
4. Submit your application and pay your fees
If you’re applying in person and need your passport in 10-20 business days
By appointment
You can book an appointment online (opens in a new tab) .
Some locations have a high demand for appointments. Their availability may vary.
Without an appointment (walk-in)
You can get walk-in services at a Service Canada Centre or a passport office (opens in a new tab) .
Wait times may be long at some passport offices. If the location is busy, we may prioritize people who need a passport within 48 hours.
Someone else can submit your application for you if you can’t go yourself. Learn more about who can submit a passport application on your behalf (opens in a new tab) .
Paying your fees
Your fees depend on what services you’re getting. How you can pay them depends on how you’re applying.
Fees for child passport services
| Passport type | CAN$ |
|---|---|
| Child passport | 57 |
There are other fees for
- standard pickup at a passport office
- replacing a lost or stolen passport
- other administrative services
| Services | CAN$ |
|---|---|
| Standard pickup (on or after 10 business days) | 20 |
Additional administrative fee for replacing a valid lost or stolen passport You must pay this fee if you report a passport as lost or stolen and are applying for a replacement. This fee does not include the cost of the new passport. |
45 |
| File transfer (to a different passport office in Canada) | 45 |
How to pay your fees in person
You can pay using any of the following:
- credit card or prepaid card (Visa®, MasterCard® or American Express®)
- debit card
- certified cheque or money order (postal or bank)
- in Canadian funds
- with the exact amount
- cheque from Canadian provincial, territorial or federal government departments
- For example, the Ministry of Social Services.
All cheques must be made payable to the Receiver General for Canada.
We don’t accept cash or personal cheques.
You can’t pay online for in-Canada services.
You won’t get a refund for the service fee if you
- cancel your application
- are refused a travel document
- are issued a passport for a shorter validity period than requested
- For example, if we issue a passport that’s valid for less than 5 years, despite you applying for a 5- or 10-year passport.
- This may happen if you’ve lost your passport multiple times.
- For example, if we issue a passport that’s valid for less than 5 years, despite you applying for a 5- or 10-year passport.
Only the consular fees (opens in a new tab) , which apply to all adult applications, are refundable if a passport is not issued.
5. Get your passport
When your passport is processed, it will be mailed to you unless you paid for pick-up service. Mail time is usually 5 business days, but it can vary across the country.
Wildfires in parts of Canada may affect the delivery of passports by mail
Contact us if you need your passport urgently and
- you can’t access your mail
- you’ve asked to have your passport delivered to you
While you’re waiting for your passport, you can check the status of your application online (opens in a new tab) for instant updates.
If you applied by mail
Any original documents you submitted will be mailed back to you. They may be in a separate package than your passport.
If you paid for a pick-up service
The pickup date will be indicated on your receipt.
You can send someone else to pick up your passport if they have
- valid identification and
- something in writing from you saying they’re allowed to
Never sign your child’s passport for them
- It does not need a signature until they are 16 and older.
- A parent’s or legal guardian’s signature makes it invalid.
- If you sign your child’s passport, you’ll need to apply for a new one and pay all the fees.
- Print the signature policy (PDF, 601 KB) and bring it with you when you travel in case someone asks you to sign it.
If they want, the child may sign the passport themselves. We encourage them to sign it if they’re 11 or older, but they don’t have to.
If you’re moving, but haven’t received your passport yet
Contact us to update your mailing address if you
- haven’t received your passport and
- are moving within 30 days of submitting your application
If you have a community mailbox, make sure you check it before you contact us about your application.
How to apply for a child passport as a director of family services, social worker or child protection worker: Get it in 10 to 20 business days or more (Apply by mail)
1. Complete the forms
- Fill out sections 1, 3 and 4.
- In section 2, answer just the first 2 questions about adoption and custody.
- You do not need to fill out sections 5 or 6. You’ll give us that information on the second form.
Including your email address makes it easier to check the status of your application online after you apply.
You also need to complete this second form:
If your passport is lost or stolen but still valid
Since your passport is still valid, you also need to
- add a complete declaration concerning a lost, stolen, inaccessible, damaged or found Canadian travel document (PDF, 1.3 MB) to your application and
- pay the extra fee for replacing a lost or stolen passport
If your passport is damaged but still valid
Since your passport is still valid, you also need to add a complete declaration concerning a lost, stolen, inaccessible, damaged or found Canadian travel document (PDF, 1.33 MB) to your application.
Get help with the form or alternate formats
- If you can’t open the form after saving it to your computer and using Adobe Reader
- in Canada or the US: contact us online or call us
- outside Canada and the US: contact the closest Canadian government office abroad
- Contact us for Braille instructions or large-print forms.
If your passport has a valid visa in it
Tell us on your form if you need the visa and want your original passport back. If you don’t, the visa could be damaged when the previous passport is cancelled.
2. Get all the required documents and the child’s passport photo
Include the following documents with the application forms:
- proof of the child's Canadian citizenship (opens in a new tab)
- This can be a long-form birth certificate or a citizenship certificate.
- It must be the original document, not a photocopy.
- The name on the proof of citizenship is what will appear on their passport.
- This can be a long-form birth certificate or a citizenship certificate.
- any valid Canadian passport or other travel document issued in the child’s name
- 2 identical passport photos of the child
- On the back of one of the photos, the photographer must write
- the name of their studio
- its complete address
- the date the photos were taken
- Your guarantor (opens in a new tab) must also sign the back of this photo.
- Read the full photo requirements (opens in a new tab) for more information.
- On the back of one of the photos, the photographer must write
You also need these extra documents if you’re a director of family services, social worker or child protection worker :
- a letter from the director of family services that proves the identity of the child’s legal guardian or person with parental authority
- a copy of court orders or agreements involving the child and family services
- If you can’t forward the court order or agreement documents for confidentiality reasons, include a summary of the court orders or agreements.
- The summary needs to include
- the name of the child’s legal guardian or the person who has parental authority
- if a mobility restriction clause exists and the details of the restriction
- the date and file number of the court order, if possible
If you’re updating the child’s gender identifier, you may need to provide extra documents.
If you’re applying for a child undergoing public probationary adoption
You also need to include a letter from the director of family services confirming
- that the child is undergoing an adoption process
- the name of the future adoptive parents
If you aren’t the legal guardian or the person with parental authority
You also need to include a letter from either
- the child’s legal guardian or
- the person with parental authority
The letter needs to
- indicate what your relationship to the child is
- authorize you to apply for their passport and have it released to you
3. Find a guarantor
You need a guarantor to sign
- your child’s application and
- 1 of the 2 passport photos
The guarantor must
- have known you personally for at least 2 years and
- know of the child
Avoid this mistake
Don’t forget to
- get the guarantor’s signature on the back of 1 of the 2 photos
- if applicable, submit all documents that refer to the child’s custody, mobility or access (opens in a new tab)
4. Submit your application and pay your fees
Submit the application by mail from Alberta, Manitoba, Ontario, Quebec or Saskatchewan
Service standards don’t include mailing time. Mailing times vary across the country.
Use a certified courier or traceable mail service to reduce the delivery time of your application and help protect your documents.
Mailed applications must be sent by courier
Due to the Canada Post labour disruption, you need to use a courier to apply by mail.
Courier address
Government of Canada
Passport Program
22 De Varennes Street
Gatineau, Quebec J8T 8R1
Submit the application by mail from British Columbia, Northwest Territories, Nunavut or Yukon
Service standards don’t include mailing time. Mailing times vary across the country.
Use a certified courier or traceable mail service to reduce the delivery time of your application and help protect your documents.
Mailed applications must be sent by courier
Due to the Canada Post labour disruption, you need to use a courier to apply by mail.
Courier address
Government of Canada
Passport Program
22 De Varennes Street
Gatineau, Quebec J8T 8R1
Submit the application by mail from New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador, Nova Scotia or Prince Edward Island
Service standards don’t include mailing time. Mailing times vary across the country.
Use a certified courier or traceable mail service to reduce the delivery time of your application and help protect your documents.
Mailed applications must be sent by courier
Due to the Canada Post labour disruption, you need to use a courier to apply by mail.
Courier address
Government of Canada
Passport Program
22 De Varennes Street
Gatineau, Quebec J8T 8R1
Paying your fees
Your fees depend on what services you’re getting. How you can pay them depends on how you’re applying.
Fees for child passport services
| Passport type | CAN$ |
|---|---|
| Child passport | 57 |
There are other fees for
- replacing a lost or stolen passport
- other administrative services
| Services | CAN$ |
|---|---|
Additional administrative fee for replacing a valid lost or stolen passport You must pay this fee if you report a passport as lost or stolen and are applying for a replacement. This fee does not include the cost of the new passport. |
45 |
| File transfer (to a different passport office in Canada) | 45 |
How to pay your fees by mail
Fill out the payment section on your application form with any of the following:
- a credit card (Visa®, MasterCard® or American Express®)
- an embossed prepaid card that has raised letters or numbers (Visa®, MasterCard® or American Express®)
- a certified cheque or money order (postal or bank)
- in Canadian funds
- with the exact amount
- cheque from Canadian provincial, territorial or federal government departments
- For example, the Ministry of Social Services.
- All cheques must be made payable to the Receiver General for Canada.
- For example, the Ministry of Social Services.
We don’t accept cash or personal cheques.
You can’t pay online for in-Canada services.
You won’t get a refund for the service fee if you
- cancel your application
- are refused a travel document
- are issued a passport for a shorter validity period than requested
- For example, if we issue a passport that’s valid for less than 5 years, despite you applying for a 5- or 10-year passport.
- This may happen if you’ve lost your passport multiple times.
- For example, if we issue a passport that’s valid for less than 5 years, despite you applying for a 5- or 10-year passport.
Only the consular fees (opens in a new tab) , which apply to all adult applications, are refundable if a passport is not issued.
5. Get your passport
When your passport is processed, it will be mailed to you unless you paid for pick-up service. Mail time is usually 5 business days, but it can vary across the country.
Any original documents you submitted will be mailed back to you. They may be in a separate package than your passport.
While you’re waiting for your passport, you can check the status of your application online (opens in a new tab) for instant updates.
Never sign your child’s passport for them
- It does not need a signature until they are 16 and older.
- A parent’s or legal guardian’s signature makes it invalid.
- If you sign your child’s passport, you’ll need to apply for a new one and pay all the fees.
- Print the signature policy (PDF, 601 KB) and bring it with you when you travel in case someone asks you to sign it.
If they want, the child may sign the passport themselves. We encourage them to sign it if they’re 11 or older, but they don’t have to.
If you’re moving, but haven’t received your passport yet
Contact us to update your mailing address if you
- haven’t received your passport and
- are moving within 30 days of submitting your application
If you have a community mailbox, make sure you check it before you contact us about your application.
How to apply for a child passport as a director of family services, social worker or child protection worker: Get it in 2 to 9 business days
1. Complete the forms
- Fill out sections 1, 3 and 4.
- In section 2, answer just the first 2 questions about adoption and custody.
- You do not need to fill out sections 5 or 6. You’ll give us that information on the second form.
Including your email address makes it easier to check the status of your application online after you apply.
You also need to complete this second form:
If your passport is lost or stolen but still valid
Since your passport is still valid, you also need to
- add a complete declaration concerning a lost, stolen, inaccessible, damaged or found Canadian travel document (PDF, 1.3 MB) to your application and
- pay the extra fee for replacing a lost or stolen passport
If your passport is damaged but still valid
Since your passport is still valid, you also need to add a complete declaration concerning a lost, stolen, inaccessible, damaged or found Canadian travel document (PDF, 1.33 MB) to your application.
Get help with the form or alternate formats
- If you can’t open the form after saving it to your computer and using Adobe Reader
- in Canada or the US: contact us online or call us
- outside Canada and the US: contact the closest Canadian government office abroad
- Contact us for Braille instructions or large-print forms.
If your passport has a valid visa in it
Tell us on your form if you need the visa and want your original passport back. If you don’t, the visa could be damaged when the previous passport is cancelled.
2. Get all the required documents and the child’s passport photo
Include the following documents with the application forms:
- proof of the child's Canadian citizenship (opens in a new tab)
- This can be a long-form birth certificate or a citizenship certificate.
- It must be the original document, not a photocopy.
- The name on the proof of citizenship is what will appear on their passport.
- This can be a long-form birth certificate or a citizenship certificate.
- any valid Canadian passport or other travel document issued in the child’s name
- 2 identical passport photos of the child
- On the back of one of the photos, the photographer must write
- the name of their studio
- its complete address
- the date the photos were taken
- Your guarantor (opens in a new tab) must also sign the back of this photo.
- Read the full photo requirements (opens in a new tab) for more information.
- On the back of one of the photos, the photographer must write
You also need these extra documents if you’re a director of family services, social worker or child protection worker :
- a letter from the director of family services that proves the identity of the child’s legal guardian or person with parental authority
- a copy of court orders or agreements involving the child and family services
- If you can’t forward the court order or agreement documents for confidentiality reasons, include a summary of the court orders or agreements.
- The summary needs to include
- the name of the child’s legal guardian or the person who has parental authority
- if a mobility restriction clause exists and the details of the restriction
- the date and file number of the court order, if possible
If you’re updating the child’s gender identifier, you may need to provide extra documents.
If you’re applying for a child undergoing public probationary adoption
You also need to include a letter from the director of family services confirming
- that the child is undergoing an adoption process
- the name of the future adoptive parents
If you aren’t the legal guardian or the person with parental authority
You also need to include a letter from either
- the child’s legal guardian or
- the person with parental authority
The letter needs to
- indicate what your relationship to the child is
- authorize you to apply for their passport and have it released to you
3. Find a guarantor
You need a guarantor to sign
- your child’s application and
- 1 of the 2 passport photos
The guarantor must
- have known you personally for at least 2 years and
- know of the child
Avoid this mistake
Don’t forget to
- get the guarantor’s signature on the back of 1 of the 2 photos
- if applicable, submit all documents that refer to the child’s custody, mobility or access (opens in a new tab)
4. Submit your application and pay your fees
If you’re applying in person and need your passport in 2 to 9 business days
You may need to provide proof that you need the passport.
By appointment
You can book an appointment online (opens in a new tab).
Some locations have a high demand for appointments. Their availability may vary.
Without an appointment (walk-in)
Go to a passport office with express pick-up service (opens in a new tab) .
If the location is busy, we may prioritize people who need a passport within 48 hours.
Paying your fees
Your fees depend on what services you’re getting. How you can pay them depends on how you’re applying.
Fees for child passport services (express pickup)
| Passport type | CAN$ |
|---|---|
| Child passport | 57 |
There are other fees for
- express pickup
- replacing a lost or stolen passport
- other administrative services
| Services | CAN$ |
|---|---|
| Express pickup (within 2 to 9 business days) | 50 |
Additional administrative fee for replacing a valid lost or stolen passport You must pay this fee if you report a passport as lost or stolen and are applying for a replacement. This fee does not include the cost of the new passport. |
45 |
| File transfer (to a different passport office in Canada) | 45 |
How to pay your fees in person
You can pay using any of the following:
- credit card or prepaid card (Visa®, MasterCard® or American Express®)
- debit card
- certified cheque or money order (postal or bank)
- in Canadian funds
- with the exact amount
- cheque from Canadian provincial, territorial or federal government departments
- For example, the Ministry of Social Services.
All cheques must be made payable to the Receiver General for Canada.
We don’t accept cash or personal cheques.
You can’t pay online for in-Canada services.
You won’t get a refund for the service fee if you
- cancel your application
- are refused a travel document
- are issued a passport for a shorter validity period than requested
- For example, if we issue a passport that’s valid for less than 5 years, despite you applying for a 5- or 10-year passport.
- This may happen if you’ve lost your passport multiple times.
- For example, if we issue a passport that’s valid for less than 5 years, despite you applying for a 5- or 10-year passport.
Only the consular fees (opens in a new tab) , which apply to all adult applications, are refundable if a passport is not issued.
5. Get your passport
The pickup date will be indicated on your receipt.
You can send someone else to pick up your passport if they have
- valid identification and
- something in writing from you saying they’re allowed to
Never sign your child’s passport for them
- It does not need a signature until they are 16 and older.
- A parent’s or legal guardian’s signature makes it invalid.
- If you sign your child’s passport, you’ll need to apply for a new one and pay all the fees.
- Print the signature policy (PDF, 601 KB) and bring it with you when you travel in case someone asks you to sign it.
If they want, the child may sign the passport themselves. We encourage them to sign it if they’re 11 or older, but they don’t have to.
How to apply for a child passport as a director of family services, social worker or child protection worker: Get it by the end of the next business day
1. Complete the forms
- Fill out sections 1, 3 and 4.
- In section 2, answer just the first 2 questions about adoption and custody.
- You do not need to fill out sections 5 or 6. You’ll give us that information on the second form.
Including your email address makes it easier to check the status of your application online after you apply.
You also need to complete this second form:
If your passport is lost or stolen but still valid
Since your passport is still valid, you also need to
- add a complete declaration concerning a lost, stolen, inaccessible, damaged or found Canadian travel document (PDF, 1.3 MB) to your application and
- pay the extra fee for replacing a lost or stolen passport
If your passport is damaged but still valid
Since your passport is still valid, you also need to add a complete declaration concerning a lost, stolen, inaccessible, damaged or found Canadian travel document (PDF, 1.33 MB) to your application.
Get help with the form or alternate formats
- If you can’t open the form after saving it to your computer and using Adobe Reader
- in Canada or the US: contact us online or call us
- outside Canada and the US: contact the closest Canadian government office abroad
- Contact us for Braille instructions or large-print forms.
If your passport has a valid visa in it
Tell us on your form if you need the visa and want your original passport back. If you don’t, the visa could be damaged when the previous passport is cancelled.
2. Get all the required documents and the child’s passport photo
Include the following documents with the application forms:
- proof of the child's Canadian citizenship (opens in a new tab)
- This can be a long-form birth certificate or a citizenship certificate.
- It must be the original document, not a photocopy.
- The name on the proof of citizenship is what will appear on their passport.
- This can be a long-form birth certificate or a citizenship certificate.
- any valid Canadian passport or other travel document issued in the child’s name
- 2 identical passport photos of the child
- On the back of one of the photos, the photographer must write
- the name of their studio
- its complete address
- the date the photos were taken
- Your guarantor (opens in a new tab) must also sign the back of this photo.
- Read the full photo requirements (opens in a new tab) for more information.
- On the back of one of the photos, the photographer must write
You also need these extra documents if you’re a director of family services, social worker or child protection worker :
- a letter from the director of family services that proves the identity of the child’s legal guardian or person with parental authority
- a copy of court orders or agreements involving the child and family services
- If you can’t forward the court order or agreement documents for confidentiality reasons, include a summary of the court orders or agreements.
- The summary needs to include
- the name of the child’s legal guardian or the person who has parental authority
- if a mobility restriction clause exists and the details of the restriction
- the date and file number of the court order, if possible
If you’re updating the child’s gender identifier, you may need to provide extra documents.
If you’re applying for a child undergoing public probationary adoption
You also need to include a letter from the director of family services confirming
- that the child is undergoing an adoption process
- the name of the future adoptive parents
If you aren’t the legal guardian or the person with parental authority
You also need to include a letter from either
- the child’s legal guardian or
- the person with parental authority
The letter needs to
- indicate what your relationship to the child is
- authorize you to apply for their passport and have it released to you
3. Find a guarantor
You need a guarantor to sign
- your child’s application and
- 1 of the 2 passport photos
The guarantor must
- have known you personally for at least 2 years and
- know of the child
Avoid this mistake
Don’t forget to
- get the guarantor’s signature on the back of 1 of the 2 photos
- if applicable, submit all documents that refer to the child’s custody, mobility or access (opens in a new tab)
4. Submit your application and pay your fees
If you need your passport by end of next business day
- Go to a passport office with urgent pick-up(opens in a new tab) .
- You do not need an appointment.
- You must provide proof that you need the passport.
- Make sure it’s a passport office and not a regular Service Canada Centre or you won’t get your passport in time.
- You can check walk-in wait times(opens in a new tab) before you go.
Paying your fees
Your fees depend on what services you’re getting. How you can pay them depends on how you’re applying.
Fees for child passport service (urgent pickup)
| Passport type | CAN$ |
|---|---|
| Child passport | 57 |
There are other fees for
- urgent pickup
- replacing a lost or stolen passport
- other administrative services
| Services | CAN$ |
|---|---|
| Urgent pickup (by the end of the next business day) | 110 |
Additional administrative fee for replacing a valid lost or stolen passport You must pay this fee if you report a passport as lost or stolen and are applying for a replacement. This fee does not include the cost of the new passport. |
45 |
| File transfer (to a different passport office in Canada) | 45 |
How to pay your fees in person
You can pay using any of the following:
- credit card or prepaid card (Visa®, MasterCard® or American Express®)
- debit card
- certified cheque or money order (postal or bank)
- in Canadian funds
- with the exact amount
- cheque from Canadian provincial, territorial or federal government departments
- For example, the Ministry of Social Services.
All cheques must be made payable to the Receiver General for Canada.
We don’t accept cash or personal cheques.
You can’t pay online for in-Canada services.
You won’t get a refund for the service fee if you
- cancel your application
- are refused a travel document
- are issued a passport for a shorter validity period than requested
- For example, if we issue a passport that’s valid for less than 5 years, despite you applying for a 5- or 10-year passport.
- This may happen if you’ve lost your passport multiple times.
- For example, if we issue a passport that’s valid for less than 5 years, despite you applying for a 5- or 10-year passport.
Only the consular fees (opens in a new tab) , which apply to all adult applications, are refundable if a passport is not issued.
5. Get your passport
The pickup date will be indicated on your receipt.
You can send someone else to pick up your passport if they have
- valid identification and
- something in writing from you saying they’re allowed to
Never sign your child’s passport for them
- It does not need a signature until they are 16 and older.
- A parent’s or legal guardian’s signature makes it invalid.
- If you sign your child’s passport, you’ll need to apply for a new one and pay all the fees.
- Print the signature policy (PDF, 601 KB) and bring it with you when you travel in case someone asks you to sign it.
If they want, the child may sign the passport themselves. We encourage them to sign it if they’re 11 or older, but they don’t have to.
How to apply for a child passport as a director of family services, social worker or child protection worker: Get it on a weekend or statutory holiday
1. Complete the forms
- Fill out sections 1, 3 and 4.
- In section 2, answer just the first 2 questions about adoption and custody.
- You do not need to fill out sections 5 or 6. You’ll give us that information on the second form.
Including your email address makes it easier to check the status of your application online after you apply.
You also need to complete this second form:
If your passport is lost or stolen but still valid
Since your passport is still valid, you also need to
- add a complete declaration concerning a lost, stolen, inaccessible, damaged or found Canadian travel document (PDF, 1.3 MB) to your application and
- pay the extra fee for replacing a lost or stolen passport
If your passport is damaged but still valid
Since your passport is still valid, you also need to add a complete declaration concerning a lost, stolen, inaccessible, damaged or found Canadian travel document (PDF, 1.33 MB) to your application.
Get help with the form or alternate formats
- If you can’t open the form after saving it to your computer and using Adobe Reader
- in Canada or the US: contact us online or call us
- outside Canada and the US: contact the closest Canadian government office abroad
- Contact us for Braille instructions or large-print forms.
If your passport has a valid visa in it
Tell us on your form if you need the visa and want your original passport back. If you don’t, the visa could be damaged when the previous passport is cancelled.
2. Get all the required documents and the child’s passport photo
Include the following documents with the application forms:
- proof of the child’s Canadian citizenship (opens in a new tab)
- This can be a long-form birth certificate or a citizenship certificate.
- It must be the original document, not a photocopy.
- The name on the proof of citizenship is what will appear on their passport.
- This can be a long-form birth certificate or a citizenship certificate.
- any valid Canadian passport or other travel document issued in the child’s name
- 2 identical passport photos of the child
- On the back of one of the photos, the photographer must write
- the name of their studio
- its complete address
- the date the photos were taken
- Your guarantor (opens in a new tab) must also sign the back of this photo.
- Read the full photo requirements (opens in a new tab) for more information.
- On the back of one of the photos, the photographer must write
You also need these extra documents if you’re a director of family services, social worker or child protection worker :
- a letter from the director of family services that proves the identity of the child’s legal guardian or person with parental authority
- a copy of court orders or agreements involving the child and family services
- If you can’t forward the court order or agreement documents for confidentiality reasons, include a summary of the court orders or agreements.
- The summary needs to include
- the name of the child’s legal guardian or the person who has parental authority
- if a mobility restriction clause exists and the details of the restriction
- the date and file number of the court order, if possible
If you’re updating the child’s gender identifier, you may need to provide extra documents.
If you’re applying for a child undergoing public probationary adoption
You also need to include a letter from the director of family services confirming
- that the child is undergoing an adoption process
- the name of the future adoptive parents
If you aren’t the legal guardian or the person with parental authority
You also need to include a letter from either
- the child’s legal guardian or
- the person with parental authority
The letter needs to
- indicate what your relationship to the child is
- authorize you to apply for their passport and have it released to you
3. Find a guarantor
You need a guarantor to sign
- your child’s application and
- 1 of the 2 passport photos
The guarantor must
- have known you personally for at least 2 years and
- know of the child
Avoid this mistake
Don’t forget to
- get the guarantor’s signature on the back of 1 of the 2 photos
- if applicable, submit all documents that refer to the child’s custody, mobility or access (opens in a new tab)
4. Call us and pay the fees (weekend or statutory holiday)
Call us ahead of time at 1-800-567-6868 to find out how to submit the application. We answer the phone Monday to Friday
- from 8:30 am to 5 pm (your local time)
- from 9:00 am to 5:30 pm (Newfoundland)
- except for statutory holidays
You must provide proof you need the passport.
Get information on emergency passport services outside these hours
You can leave a message and ask for us to call you back
- on Friday or a weekday before a statutory holiday after 5 pm (your local time), 5:30 pm (Newfoundland)
- on Saturday or Sunday
We’ll call you with information on emergency services between 9 am and 5 pm (your local time).
Paying your fees
To get the weekend or statutory holiday service, you need to pay an additional $335 on top of the regular passport fees.
If you need the weekend or holiday service for your family members at the same time, you need to pay an urgent service fee of $110 per family member.
For example, if you apply for a 10-year passport for yourself and a 5-year passport for your child, the fees will be
- $160 for your passport
- $335 for your weekend or statutory holiday service
- $57 for the child’s passport
- $110 for the child’s urgent service
Fees for weekend or statutory holiday passport service
| Passport type | CAN$ |
|---|---|
| 5-year adult passport (age 16 or over) | 120 |
| 10-year adult passport (age 16 or over) | 160 |
| Child passport (0 to 15 years of age) | 57 |
There are other fees for
- replacing a lost or stolen passport
- other administrative services
| Services | CAN$ |
|---|---|
Weekend or statutory holiday This service is only
|
335 |
Additional administrative fee for replacing a valid lost or stolen passport You must pay this fee if you report a passport as lost or stolen and are applying for a replacement. This fee does not include the cost of the new passport. |
45 |
| File transfer (to a different passport office in Canada) | 45 |
How to pay your fees in person
5. Get your passport
The pickup date will be indicated on your receipt.
You can send someone else to pick up your passport if they have
- valid identification and
- something in writing from you saying they’re allowed to
Never sign your child’s passport for them
- It does not need a signature until they are 16 and older.
- A parent’s or legal guardian’s signature makes it invalid.
- If you sign your child’s passport, you’ll need to apply for a new one and pay all the fees.
- Print the signature policy (PDF, 601 KB) and bring it with you when you travel in case someone asks you to sign it.
If they want, the child may sign the passport themselves. We encourage them to sign it if they’re 11 or older, but they don’t have to.
How to apply for a child passport as a licensee or representative of a licensed adoption agency: Get it in 10 to 20 business days or more (Apply in person)
1. Complete the forms
- Fill out sections 1, 3 and 4.
- In section 2, answer just the first 2 questions about adoption and custody.
- You do not need to fill out sections 5 or 6. You’ll give us that information on the second form.
Including your email address makes it easier to check the status of your application online after you apply.
You also need to complete this second form:
If your passport is lost or stolen but still valid
Since your passport is still valid, you also need to
- add a complete declaration concerning a lost, stolen, inaccessible, damaged or found Canadian travel document (PDF, 1.3 MB) to your application and
- pay the extra fee for replacing a lost or stolen passport
If your passport is damaged but still valid
Since your passport is still valid, you also need to add a complete declaration concerning a lost, stolen, inaccessible, damaged or found Canadian travel document (PDF, 1.33 MB) to your application.
Get help with the form or alternate formats
- If you can’t open the form after saving it to your computer and using Adobe Reader
- in Canada or the US: contact us online or call us
- outside Canada and the US: contact the closest Canadian government office abroad
- Contact us for Braille instructions or large-print forms.
If your passport has a valid visa in it
Tell us on your form if you need the visa and want your original passport back. If you don’t, the visa could be damaged when the previous passport is cancelled.
2. Get all the required documents and the child’s passport photo
Include the following documents with the application forms:
- proof of the child's Canadian citizenship (opens in a new tab)
- This can be a long-form birth certificate or a citizenship certificate.
- It must be the original document, not a photocopy.
- The name on the proof of citizenship is what will appear on their passport.
- This can be a long-form birth certificate or a citizenship certificate.
- any valid Canadian passport or other travel document issued in the child’s name
- 2 identical passport photos of the child
- On the back of one of the photos, the photographer must write
- the name of their studio
- its complete address
- the date the photos were taken
- Your guarantor (opens in a new tab) must also sign the back of this photo.
- Read the full photo requirements (opens in a new tab) for more information.
- On the back of one of the photos, the photographer must write
You also need these extra documents if you’re a licensee or representative of a licensed adoption agency:
- the consent to adoption signed by the biological parents
- a letter from the licensee of the adoption agency showing all of the following:
- the name of the child’s legal guardian or the person who has parental authority
- that a private adoption is in process
- that all the adoption consents have been obtained
- that the time period for cancelling the adoption has expired
- If the time period has not expired, we can’t issue a passport unless the biological parents consent to it.
- a copy of court orders or agreements involving the child and the adoption agency
- If you can’t forward the court order or agreement documents for confidentiality reasons, include a summary of the court orders or agreements.
- The summary needs to include
- the name of the child’s legal guardian or the person who has parental authority
- if a mobility restriction clause exists and the details of the restriction
- the date and file number of the court order, when possible
- the custody or guardianship agreement signed by the child’s biological parents and the future adoptive parents for the duration of the adoption process, if an agreement exists
If you’re updating the child’s gender identifier, you may need to provide extra documents.
If you aren’t the legal guardian or the person with parental authority
You also need to include a letter from either
- the child’s legal guardian or
- the person with parental authority
The letter needs to
- indicate what your relationship to the child is
- authorize you to apply for their passport and have it released to you
3. Find a guarantor
You need a guarantor to sign
- your child’s application and
- 1 of the 2 passport photos
The guarantor must
- have known you personally for at least 2 years and
- know of the child
Avoid this mistake
Don’t forget to
- get the guarantor’s signature on the back of 1 of the 2 photos
- if applicable, submit all documents that refer to the child’s custody, mobility or access (opens in a new tab)
4. Submit your application and pay your fees
If you’re applying in person and need your passport in 10-20 business days
By appointment
You can book an appointment online (opens in a new tab) .
Some locations have a high demand for appointments. Their availability may vary.
Without an appointment (walk-in)
You can get walk-in services at a Service Canada Centre or a passport office (opens in a new tab) .
Wait times may be long at some passport offices. If the location is busy, we may prioritize people who need a passport within 48 hours.
Someone else can submit your application for you if you can’t go yourself. Learn more about who can submit a passport application on your behalf (opens in a new tab) .
Paying your fees
Your fees depend on what services you’re getting. How you can pay them depends on how you’re applying.
Fees for child passport services
| Passport type | CAN$ |
|---|---|
| Child passport | 57 |
There are other fees for
- standard pickup at a passport office
- replacing a lost or stolen passport
- other administrative services
| Services | CAN$ |
|---|---|
| Standard pickup (on or after 10 business days) | 20 |
Additional administrative fee for replacing a valid lost or stolen passport You must pay this fee if you report a passport as lost or stolen and are applying for a replacement. This fee does not include the cost of the new passport. |
45 |
| File transfer (to a different passport office in Canada) | 45 |
How to pay your fees in person
You can pay using any of the following:
- credit card or prepaid card (Visa®, MasterCard® or American Express®)
- debit card
- certified cheque or money order (postal or bank)
- in Canadian funds
- with the exact amount
- cheque from Canadian provincial, territorial or federal government departments
- For example, the Ministry of Social Services.
All cheques must be made payable to the Receiver General for Canada.
We don’t accept cash or personal cheques.
You can’t pay online for in-Canada services.
You won’t get a refund for the service fee if you
- cancel your application
- are refused a travel document
- are issued a passport for a shorter validity period than requested
- For example, if we issue a passport that’s valid for less than 5 years, despite you applying for a 5- or 10-year passport.
- This may happen if you’ve lost your passport multiple times.
- For example, if we issue a passport that’s valid for less than 5 years, despite you applying for a 5- or 10-year passport.
Only the consular fees (opens in a new tab) , which apply to all adult applications, are refundable if a passport is not issued.
5. Get your passport
When your passport is processed, it will be mailed to you unless you paid for pick-up service. Mail time is usually 5 business days, but it can vary across the country.
Wildfires in parts of Canada may affect the delivery of passports by mail
Contact us if you need your passport urgently and
- you can’t access your mail
- you’ve asked to have your passport delivered to you
While you’re waiting for your passport, you can check the status of your application online (opens in a new tab) for instant updates.
If you applied by mail
Any original documents you submitted will be mailed back to you. They may be in a separate package than your passport.
If you paid for a pick-up service
The pickup date will be indicated on your receipt.
You can send someone else to pick up your passport if they have
- valid identification and
- something in writing from you saying they’re allowed to
Never sign your child’s passport for them
- It does not need a signature until they are 16 and older.
- A parent’s or legal guardian’s signature makes it invalid.
- If you sign your child’s passport, you’ll need to apply for a new one and pay all the fees.
- Print the signature policy (PDF, 601 KB) and bring it with you when you travel in case someone asks you to sign it.
If they want, the child may sign the passport themselves. We encourage them to sign it if they’re 11 or older, but they don’t have to.
If you’re moving, but haven’t received your passport yet
Contact us to update your mailing address if you
- haven’t received your passport and
- are moving within 30 days of submitting your application
If you have a community mailbox, make sure you check it before you contact us about your application.
How to apply for a child passport as a licensee or representative of a licensed adoption agency: Get it in 10 to 20 business days or more (Apply by mail)
1. Complete the forms
- Fill out sections 1, 3 and 4.
- In section 2, answer just the first 2 questions about adoption and custody.
- You do not need to fill out sections 5 or 6. You’ll give us that information on the second form.
Including your email address makes it easier to check the status of your application online after you apply.
You also need to complete this second form:
If your passport is lost or stolen but still valid
Since your passport is still valid, you also need to
- add a complete declaration concerning a lost, stolen, inaccessible, damaged or found Canadian travel document (PDF, 1.3 MB) to your application and
- pay the extra fee for replacing a lost or stolen passport
If your passport is damaged but still valid
Since your passport is still valid, you also need to add a complete declaration concerning a lost, stolen, inaccessible, damaged or found Canadian travel document (PDF, 1.33 MB) to your application.
Get help with the form or alternate formats
- If you can’t open the form after saving it to your computer and using Adobe Reader
- in Canada or the US: contact us online or call us
- outside Canada and the US: contact the closest Canadian government office abroad
- Contact us for Braille instructions or large-print forms.
If your passport has a valid visa in it
Tell us on your form if you need the visa and want your original passport back. If you don’t, the visa could be damaged when the previous passport is cancelled.
2. Get all the required documents and the child’s passport photo
Include the following documents with the application forms:
- proof of the child's Canadian citizenship (opens in a new tab)
- This can be a long-form birth certificate or a citizenship certificate.
- It must be the original document, not a photocopy.
- The name on the proof of citizenship is what will appear on their passport.
- This can be a long-form birth certificate or a citizenship certificate.
- any valid Canadian passport or other travel document issued in the child’s name
- 2 identical passport photos of the child
- On the back of one of the photos, the photographer must write
- the name of their studio
- its complete address
- the date the photos were taken
- Your guarantor (opens in a new tab) must also sign the back of this photo.
- Read the full photo requirements (opens in a new tab) for more information.
- On the back of one of the photos, the photographer must write
You also need these extra documents if you’re a licensee or representative of a licensed adoption agency:
- the consent to adoption signed by the biological parents
- a letter from the licensee of the adoption agency showing all of the following:
- the name of the child’s legal guardian or the person who has parental authority
- that a private adoption is in process
- that all the adoption consents have been obtained
- that the time period for cancelling the adoption has expired
- If the time period has not expired, we can’t issue a passport unless the biological parents consent to it.
- a copy of court orders or agreements involving the child and the adoption agency
- If you can’t forward the court order or agreement documents for confidentiality reasons, include a summary of the court orders or agreements.
- The summary needs to include
- the name of the child’s legal guardian or the person who has parental authority
- if a mobility restriction clause exists and the details of the restriction
- the date and file number of the court order, when possible
- the custody or guardianship agreement signed by the child’s biological parents and the future adoptive parents for the duration of the adoption process, if an agreement exists
If you’re updating the child’s gender identifier, you may need to provide extra documents.
If you aren’t the legal guardian or the person with parental authority
You also need to include a letter from either
- the child’s legal guardian or
- the person with parental authority
The letter needs to
- indicate what your relationship to the child is
- authorize you to apply for their passport and have it released to you
3. Find a guarantor
You need a guarantor to sign
- your child’s application and
- 1 of the 2 passport photos
The guarantor must
- have known you personally for at least 2 years and
- know of the child
Avoid this mistake
Don’t forget to
- get the guarantor’s signature on the back of 1 of the 2 photos
- if applicable, submit all documents that refer to the child’s custody, mobility or access (opens in a new tab)
4. Submit your application and pay your fees
Submit the application by mail from Alberta, Manitoba, Ontario, Quebec or Saskatchewan
Service standards don’t include mailing time. Mailing times vary across the country.
Use a certified courier or traceable mail service to reduce the delivery time of your application and help protect your documents.
Mailed applications must be sent by courier
Due to the Canada Post labour disruption, you need to use a courier to apply by mail.
Courier address
Government of Canada
Passport Program
22 De Varennes Street
Gatineau, Quebec J8T 8R1
Submit the application by mail from British Columbia, Northwest Territories, Nunavut or Yukon
Service standards don’t include mailing time. Mailing times vary across the country.
Use a certified courier or traceable mail service to reduce the delivery time of your application and help protect your documents.
Mailed applications must be sent by courier
Due to the Canada Post labour disruption, you need to use a courier to apply by mail.
Courier address
Government of Canada
Passport Program
22 De Varennes Street
Gatineau, Quebec J8T 8R1
Submit the application by mail from New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador, Nova Scotia or Prince Edward Island
Service standards don’t include mailing time. Mailing times vary across the country.
Use a certified courier or traceable mail service to reduce the delivery time of your application and help protect your documents.
Mailed applications must be sent by courier
Due to the Canada Post labour disruption, you need to use a courier to apply by mail.
Courier address
Government of Canada
Passport Program
22 De Varennes Street
Gatineau, Quebec J8T 8R1
Paying your fees
Your fees depend on what services you’re getting. How you can pay them depends on how you’re applying.
Fees for child passport services
| Passport type | CAN$ |
|---|---|
| Child passport | 57 |
There are other fees for
- replacing a lost or stolen passport
- other administrative services
| Services | CAN$ |
|---|---|
Additional administrative fee for replacing a valid lost or stolen passport You must pay this fee if you report a passport as lost or stolen and are applying for a replacement. This fee does not include the cost of the new passport. |
45 |
| File transfer (to a different passport office in Canada) | 45 |
How to pay your fees by mail
Fill out the payment section on your application form with any of the following:
- a credit card (Visa®, MasterCard® or American Express®)
- an embossed prepaid card that has raised letters or numbers (Visa®, MasterCard® or American Express®)
- a certified cheque or money order (postal or bank)
- in Canadian funds
- with the exact amount
- cheque from Canadian provincial, territorial or federal government departments
- For example, the Ministry of Social Services.
- All cheques must be made payable to the Receiver General for Canada.
- For example, the Ministry of Social Services.
We don’t accept cash or personal cheques.
You can’t pay online for in-Canada services.
You won’t get a refund for the service fee if you
- cancel your application
- are refused a travel document
- are issued a passport for a shorter validity period than requested
- For example, if we issue a passport that’s valid for less than 5 years, despite you applying for a 5- or 10-year passport.
- This may happen if you’ve lost your passport multiple times.
- For example, if we issue a passport that’s valid for less than 5 years, despite you applying for a 5- or 10-year passport.
Only the consular fees (opens in a new tab) , which apply to all adult applications, are refundable if a passport is not issued.
5. Get your passport
When your passport is processed, it will be mailed to you unless you paid for pick-up service. Mail time is usually 5 business days, but it can vary across the country.
Any original documents you submitted will be mailed back to you. They may be in a separate package than your passport.
While you’re waiting for your passport, you can check the status of your application online (opens in a new tab) for instant updates.
Never sign your child’s passport for them
- It does not need a signature until they are 16 and older.
- A parent’s or legal guardian’s signature makes it invalid.
- If you sign your child’s passport, you’ll need to apply for a new one and pay all the fees.
- Print the signature policy (PDF, 601 KB) and bring it with you when you travel in case someone asks you to sign it.
If they want, the child may sign the passport themselves. We encourage them to sign it if they’re 11 or older, but they don’t have to.
If you’re moving, but haven’t received your passport yet
Contact us to update your mailing address if you
- haven’t received your passport and
- are moving within 30 days of submitting your application
If you have a community mailbox, make sure you check it before you contact us about your application.
How to apply for a child passport as a licensee or representative of a licensed adoption agency: Get it in 2 to 9 business days
1. Complete the forms
- Fill out sections 1, 3 and 4.
- In section 2, answer just the first 2 questions about adoption and custody.
- You do not need to fill out sections 5 or 6. You’ll give us that information on the second form.
Including your email address makes it easier to check the status of your application online after you apply.
You also need to complete this second form:
If your passport is lost or stolen but still valid
Since your passport is still valid, you also need to
- add a complete declaration concerning a lost, stolen, inaccessible, damaged or found Canadian travel document (PDF, 1.3 MB) to your application and
- pay the extra fee for replacing a lost or stolen passport
If your passport is damaged but still valid
Since your passport is still valid, you also need to add a complete declaration concerning a lost, stolen, inaccessible, damaged or found Canadian travel document (PDF, 1.33 MB) to your application.
Get help with the form or alternate formats
- If you can’t open the form after saving it to your computer and using Adobe Reader
- in Canada or the US: contact us online or call us
- outside Canada and the US: contact the closest Canadian government office abroad
- Contact us for Braille instructions or large-print forms.
If your passport has a valid visa in it
Tell us on your form if you need the visa and want your original passport back. If you don’t, the visa could be damaged when the previous passport is cancelled.
2. Get all the required documents and the child’s passport photo
Include the following documents with the application forms:
- proof of the child's Canadian citizenship (opens in a new tab)
- This can be a long-form birth certificate or a citizenship certificate.
- It must be the original document, not a photocopy.
- The name on the proof of citizenship is what will appear on their passport.
- This can be a long-form birth certificate or a citizenship certificate.
- any valid Canadian passport or other travel document issued in the child’s name
- 2 identical passport photos of the child
- On the back of one of the photos, the photographer must write
- the name of their studio
- its complete address
- the date the photos were taken
- Your guarantor (opens in a new tab) must also sign the back of this photo.
- Read the full photo requirements (opens in a new tab) for more information.
- On the back of one of the photos, the photographer must write
You also need these extra documents if you’re a licensee or representative of a licensed adoption agency:
- the consent to adoption signed by the biological parents
- a letter from the licensee of the adoption agency showing all of the following:
- the name of the child’s legal guardian or the person who has parental authority
- that a private adoption is in process
- that all the adoption consents have been obtained
- that the time period for cancelling the adoption has expired
- If the time period has not expired, we can’t issue a passport unless the biological parents consent to it.
- a copy of court orders or agreements involving the child and the adoption agency
- If you can’t forward the court order or agreement documents for confidentiality reasons, include a summary of the court orders or agreements.
- The summary needs to include
- the name of the child’s legal guardian or the person who has parental authority
- if a mobility restriction clause exists and the details of the restriction
- the date and file number of the court order, when possible
- the custody or guardianship agreement signed by the child’s biological parents and the future adoptive parents for the duration of the adoption process, if an agreement exists
If you’re updating the child’s gender identifier, you may need to provide extra documents.
If you aren’t the legal guardian or the person with parental authority
You also need to include a letter from either
- the child’s legal guardian or
- the person with parental authority
The letter needs to
- indicate what your relationship to the child is
- authorize you to apply for their passport and have it released to you
3. Find a guarantor
You need a guarantor to sign
- your child’s application and
- 1 of the 2 passport photos
The guarantor must
- have known you personally for at least 2 years and
- know of the child
Avoid this mistake
Don’t forget to
- get the guarantor’s signature on the back of 1 of the 2 photos
- if applicable, submit all documents that refer to the child’s custody, mobility or access (opens in a new tab)
4. Submit your application and pay your fees
If you’re applying in person and need your passport in 2 to 9 business days
You may need to provide proof that you need the passport.
By appointment
You can book an appointment online (opens in a new tab).
Some locations have a high demand for appointments. Their availability may vary.
Without an appointment (walk-in)
Go to a passport office with express pick-up service (opens in a new tab) .
If the location is busy, we may prioritize people who need a passport within 48 hours.
Paying your fees
Your fees depend on what services you’re getting. How you can pay them depends on how you’re applying.
Fees for child passport services (express pickup)
| Passport type | CAN$ |
|---|---|
| Child passport | 57 |
There are other fees for
- express pickup
- replacing a lost or stolen passport
- other administrative services
| Services | CAN$ |
|---|---|
| Express pickup (within 2 to 9 business days) | 50 |
Additional administrative fee for replacing a valid lost or stolen passport You must pay this fee if you report a passport as lost or stolen and are applying for a replacement. This fee does not include the cost of the new passport. |
45 |
| File transfer (to a different passport office in Canada) | 45 |
How to pay your fees in person
You can pay using any of the following:
- credit card or prepaid card (Visa®, MasterCard® or American Express®)
- debit card
- certified cheque or money order (postal or bank)
- in Canadian funds
- with the exact amount
- cheque from Canadian provincial, territorial or federal government departments
- For example, the Ministry of Social Services.
All cheques must be made payable to the Receiver General for Canada.
We don’t accept cash or personal cheques.
You can’t pay online for in-Canada services.
You won’t get a refund for the service fee if you
- cancel your application
- are refused a travel document
- are issued a passport for a shorter validity period than requested
- For example, if we issue a passport that’s valid for less than 5 years, despite you applying for a 5- or 10-year passport.
- This may happen if you’ve lost your passport multiple times.
- For example, if we issue a passport that’s valid for less than 5 years, despite you applying for a 5- or 10-year passport.
Only the consular fees (opens in a new tab) , which apply to all adult applications, are refundable if a passport is not issued.
5. Get your passport
The pickup date will be indicated on your receipt.
You can send someone else to pick up your passport if they have
- valid identification and
- something in writing from you saying they’re allowed to
Never sign your child’s passport for them
- It does not need a signature until they are 16 and older.
- A parent’s or legal guardian’s signature makes it invalid.
- If you sign your child’s passport, you’ll need to apply for a new one and pay all the fees.
- Print the signature policy (PDF, 601 KB) and bring it with you when you travel in case someone asks you to sign it.
If they want, the child may sign the passport themselves. We encourage them to sign it if they’re 11 or older, but they don’t have to.
How to apply for a child passport as a licensee or representative of a licensed adoption agency: Get it by the end of the next business day
1. Complete the forms
- Fill out sections 1, 3 and 4.
- In section 2, answer just the first 2 questions about adoption and custody.
- You do not need to fill out sections 5 or 6. You’ll give us that information on the second form.
Including your email address makes it easier to check the status of your application online after you apply.
You also need to complete this second form:
If your passport is lost or stolen but still valid
Since your passport is still valid, you also need to
- add a complete declaration concerning a lost, stolen, inaccessible, damaged or found Canadian travel document (PDF, 1.3 MB) to your application and
- pay the extra fee for replacing a lost or stolen passport
If your passport is damaged but still valid
Since your passport is still valid, you also need to add a complete declaration concerning a lost, stolen, inaccessible, damaged or found Canadian travel document (PDF, 1.33 MB) to your application.
Get help with the form or alternate formats
- If you can’t open the form after saving it to your computer and using Adobe Reader
- in Canada or the US: contact us online or call us
- outside Canada and the US: contact the closest Canadian government office abroad
- Contact us for Braille instructions or large-print forms.
If your passport has a valid visa in it
Tell us on your form if you need the visa and want your original passport back. If you don’t, the visa could be damaged when the previous passport is cancelled.
2. Get all the required documents and the child’s passport photo
Include the following documents with the application forms:
- proof of the child's Canadian citizenship (opens in a new tab)
- This can be a long-form birth certificate or a citizenship certificate.
- It must be the original document, not a photocopy.
- The name on the proof of citizenship is what will appear on their passport.
- This can be a long-form birth certificate or a citizenship certificate.
- any valid Canadian passport or other travel document issued in the child’s name
- 2 identical passport photos of the child
- On the back of one of the photos, the photographer must write
- the name of their studio
- its complete address
- the date the photos were taken
- Your guarantor (opens in a new tab) must also sign the back of this photo.
- Read the full photo requirements (opens in a new tab) for more information.
- On the back of one of the photos, the photographer must write
You also need these extra documents if you’re a licensee or representative of a licensed adoption agency:
- the consent to adoption signed by the biological parents
- a letter from the licensee of the adoption agency showing all of the following:
- the name of the child’s legal guardian or the person who has parental authority
- that a private adoption is in process
- that all the adoption consents have been obtained
- that the time period for cancelling the adoption has expired
- If the time period has not expired, we can’t issue a passport unless the biological parents consent to it.
- a copy of court orders or agreements involving the child and the adoption agency
- If you can’t forward the court order or agreement documents for confidentiality reasons, include a summary of the court orders or agreements.
- The summary needs to include
- the name of the child’s legal guardian or the person who has parental authority
- if a mobility restriction clause exists and the details of the restriction
- the date and file number of the court order, when possible
- the custody or guardianship agreement signed by the child’s biological parents and the future adoptive parents for the duration of the adoption process, if an agreement exists
If you’re updating the child’s gender identifier, you may need to provide extra documents.
If you aren’t the legal guardian or the person with parental authority
You also need to include a letter from either
- the child’s legal guardian or
- the person with parental authority
The letter needs to
- indicate what your relationship to the child is
- authorize you to apply for their passport and have it released to you
3. Find a guarantor
You need a guarantor to sign
- your child’s application and
- 1 of the 2 passport photos
The guarantor must
- have known you personally for at least 2 years and
- know of the child
Avoid this mistake
Don’t forget to
- get the guarantor’s signature on the back of 1 of the 2 photos
- if applicable, submit all documents that refer to the child’s custody, mobility or access (opens in a new tab)
4. Submit your application and pay your fees
If you need your passport by end of next business day
- Go to a passport office with urgent pick-up(opens in a new tab) .
- You do not need an appointment.
- You must provide proof that you need the passport.
- Make sure it’s a passport office and not a regular Service Canada Centre or you won’t get your passport in time.
- You can check walk-in wait times(opens in a new tab) before you go.
Paying your fees
Your fees depend on what services you’re getting. How you can pay them depends on how you’re applying.
Fees for child passport service (urgent pickup)
| Passport type | CAN$ |
|---|---|
| Child passport | 57 |
There are other fees for
- urgent pickup
- replacing a lost or stolen passport
- other administrative services
| Services | CAN$ |
|---|---|
| Urgent pickup (by the end of the next business day) | 110 |
Additional administrative fee for replacing a valid lost or stolen passport You must pay this fee if you report a passport as lost or stolen and are applying for a replacement. This fee does not include the cost of the new passport. |
45 |
| File transfer (to a different passport office in Canada) | 45 |
How to pay your fees in person
You can pay using any of the following:
- credit card or prepaid card (Visa®, MasterCard® or American Express®)
- debit card
- certified cheque or money order (postal or bank)
- in Canadian funds
- with the exact amount
- cheque from Canadian provincial, territorial or federal government departments
- For example, the Ministry of Social Services.
All cheques must be made payable to the Receiver General for Canada.
We don’t accept cash or personal cheques.
You can’t pay online for in-Canada services.
You won’t get a refund for the service fee if you
- cancel your application
- are refused a travel document
- are issued a passport for a shorter validity period than requested
- For example, if we issue a passport that’s valid for less than 5 years, despite you applying for a 5- or 10-year passport.
- This may happen if you’ve lost your passport multiple times.
- For example, if we issue a passport that’s valid for less than 5 years, despite you applying for a 5- or 10-year passport.
Only the consular fees (opens in a new tab) , which apply to all adult applications, are refundable if a passport is not issued.
5. Get your passport
The pickup date will be indicated on your receipt.
You can send someone else to pick up your passport if they have
- valid identification and
- something in writing from you saying they’re allowed to
Never sign your child’s passport for them
- It does not need a signature until they are 16 and older.
- A parent’s or legal guardian’s signature makes it invalid.
- If you sign your child’s passport, you’ll need to apply for a new one and pay all the fees.
- Print the signature policy (PDF, 601 KB) and bring it with you when you travel in case someone asks you to sign it.
If they want, the child may sign the passport themselves. We encourage them to sign it if they’re 11 or older, but they don’t have to.
How to apply for a child passport as a licensee or representative of a licensed adoption agency: Get it on a weekend or statutory holiday
1. Complete the forms
- Fill out sections 1, 3 and 4.
- In section 2, answer just the first 2 questions about adoption and custody.
- You do not need to fill out sections 5 or 6. You’ll give us that information on the second form.
Including your email address makes it easier to check the status of your application online after you apply.
You also need to complete this second form:
If your passport is lost or stolen but still valid
Since your passport is still valid, you also need to
- add a complete declaration concerning a lost, stolen, inaccessible, damaged or found Canadian travel document (PDF, 1.3 MB) to your application and
- pay the extra fee for replacing a lost or stolen passport
If your passport is damaged but still valid
Since your passport is still valid, you also need to add a complete declaration concerning a lost, stolen, inaccessible, damaged or found Canadian travel document (PDF, 1.33 MB) to your application.
Get help with the form or alternate formats
- If you can’t open the form after saving it to your computer and using Adobe Reader
- in Canada or the US: contact us online or call us
- outside Canada and the US: contact the closest Canadian government office abroad
- Contact us for Braille instructions or large-print forms.
If your passport has a valid visa in it
Tell us on your form if you need the visa and want your original passport back. If you don’t, the visa could be damaged when the previous passport is cancelled.
2. Get all the required documents and the child’s passport photo
Include the following documents with the application forms:
- proof of the child’s Canadian citizenship (opens in a new tab)
- This can be a long-form birth certificate or a citizenship certificate.
- It must be the original document, not a photocopy.
- The name on the proof of citizenship is what will appear on their passport.
- This can be a long-form birth certificate or a citizenship certificate.
- any valid Canadian passport or other travel document issued in the child’s name
- 2 identical passport photos of the child
- On the back of one of the photos, the photographer must write
- the name of their studio
- its complete address
- the date the photos were taken
- Your guarantor (opens in a new tab) must also sign the back of this photo.
- Read the full photo requirements (opens in a new tab) for more information.
- On the back of one of the photos, the photographer must write
You also need these extra documents if you’re a licensee or representative of a licensed adoption agency:
- the consent to adoption signed by the biological parents
- a letter from the licensee of the adoption agency showing all of the following:
- the name of the child’s legal guardian or the person who has parental authority
- that a private adoption is in process
- that all the adoption consents have been obtained
- that the time period for cancelling the adoption has expired
- If the time period has not expired, we can’t issue a passport unless the biological parents consent to it.
- a copy of court orders or agreements involving the child and the adoption agency
- If you can’t forward the court order or agreement documents for confidentiality reasons, include a summary of the court orders or agreements.
- The summary needs to include
- the name of the child’s legal guardian or the person who has parental authority
- if a mobility restriction clause exists and the details of the restriction
- the date and file number of the court order, when possible
- the custody or guardianship agreement signed by the child’s biological parents and the future adoptive parents for the duration of the adoption process, if an agreement exists
If you’re updating the child’s gender identifier, you may need to provide extra documents.
If you aren’t the legal guardian or the person with parental authority
You also need to include a letter from either
- the child’s legal guardian or
- the person with parental authority
The letter needs to
- indicate what your relationship to the child is
- authorize you to apply for their passport and have it released to you
3. Find a guarantor
You need a guarantor to sign
- your child’s application and
- 1 of the 2 passport photos
The guarantor must
- have known you personally for at least 2 years and
- know of the child
Avoid this mistake
Don’t forget to
- get the guarantor’s signature on the back of 1 of the 2 photos
- if applicable, submit all documents that refer to the child’s custody, mobility or access (opens in a new tab)
4. Call us and pay the fees (weekend or statutory holiday)
Call us ahead of time at 1-800-567-6868 to find out how to submit the application. We answer the phone Monday to Friday
- from 8:30 am to 5 pm (your local time)
- from 9:00 am to 5:30 pm (Newfoundland)
- except for statutory holidays
You must provide proof you need the passport.
Get information on emergency passport services outside these hours
You can leave a message and ask for us to call you back
- on Friday or a weekday before a statutory holiday after 5 pm (your local time), 5:30 pm (Newfoundland)
- on Saturday or Sunday
We’ll call you with information on emergency services between 9 am and 5 pm (your local time).
Paying your fees
To get the weekend or statutory holiday service, you need to pay an additional $335 on top of the regular passport fees.
If you need the weekend or holiday service for your family members at the same time, you need to pay an urgent service fee of $110 per family member.
For example, if you apply for a 10-year passport for yourself and a 5-year passport for your child, the fees will be
- $160 for your passport
- $335 for your weekend or statutory holiday service
- $57 for the child’s passport
- $110 for the child’s urgent service
Fees for weekend or statutory holiday passport service
| Passport type | CAN$ |
|---|---|
| 5-year adult passport (age 16 or over) | 120 |
| 10-year adult passport (age 16 or over) | 160 |
| Child passport (0 to 15 years of age) | 57 |
There are other fees for
- replacing a lost or stolen passport
- other administrative services
| Services | CAN$ |
|---|---|
Weekend or statutory holiday This service is only
|
335 |
Additional administrative fee for replacing a valid lost or stolen passport You must pay this fee if you report a passport as lost or stolen and are applying for a replacement. This fee does not include the cost of the new passport. |
45 |
| File transfer (to a different passport office in Canada) | 45 |
How to pay your fees in person
5. Get your passport
The pickup date will be indicated on your receipt.
You can send someone else to pick up your passport if they have
- valid identification and
- something in writing from you saying they’re allowed to
Never sign your child’s passport for them
- It does not need a signature until they are 16 and older.
- A parent’s or legal guardian’s signature makes it invalid.
- If you sign your child’s passport, you’ll need to apply for a new one and pay all the fees.
- Print the signature policy (PDF, 601 KB) and bring it with you when you travel in case someone asks you to sign it.
If they want, the child may sign the passport themselves. We encourage them to sign it if they’re 11 or older, but they don’t have to.
Passport number, date of issue, and date of expiry
Check the date of issue. If the date it was issued is within the past 15 years and you meet the other eligibility requirements, you can apply to renew your passport.
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