Apply for a child passport in Canada: Get it in 10 to 20 business days
Where are you right now? 
Canada
|
U.S.
| 
International
-
Complete your form, and get your supporting documents and passport photos.
-
Book an appointment or try to get walk-in service at a Service Canada Centre or passport office.
-
You can also apply by mail.
- Use a certified courier or traceable mail service to reduce the delivery time of your application and help protect your documents.
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.
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 the child (if you are separated or divorced) with the correct documentation
- Include all documents (including any divorce judgment) about the child’s custody, mobility or access.
- the child’s legal guardian, with the correct documentation
- Include all legal documents proving your legal guardianship of the child.
All parents or legal guardians should sign the application form.
- If you don’t know where the other parent or legal guardian is, contact us.
- We may contact the other parent or legal guardian.
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 get a child’s passport in 10-20 business days
1. Complete the form
Each parent or legal guardian should sign the application form. We may contact the other parent or legal guardian.
Including your email address makes 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.
Instructions and tips
- To save time, complete the form on your computer.
- If you can’t open the form, follow these instructions.
- To get a Braille instruction booklet or large-print forms, contact us.
- Read the instructions at the end of the form to make sure you complete it properly.
- Sign each page of the application.
- If the term “mother’s surname” doesn’t apply to you
- cross it out on the form and write “parent’s surname at birth”
- fill in the field with the surname (last name) at birth of 1 parent
and - write your initials in the margin
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 your child’s passport photo
Include the following documents with your child’s application form:
- proof of your child’s Canadian citizenship
- 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 goes on their passport.
- This can be a long-form birth certificate or a citizenship certificate.
- proof of parentage or proof of legal guardianship (if applicable)
- all documents that refer to the custody of, mobility of, or access to the child
- any valid Canadian 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
- their name
- their complete address and
- the date the photos were taken
- Your guarantor must also sign the back of this photo.
- Read the full photo requirements for more information.
- On the back of one of the photos, the photographer must write
You may need to provide extra documents if you’re updating their gender identifier.
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 also get walk-in services at a Service Canada Centre or a passport office (opens in a new tab) .
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) .
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.
Mailing address (non-courier)
Government of Canada
Passport Program
Gatineau, Quebec K1A 0G3
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.
Mailing address (non-courier)
Government of Canada
Passport Program
PO Box 4000 STN LCD 3
Mississauga, Ontario L5K 0A9
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.
Mailing address (non-courier)
Government of Canada
Passport Program
Gatineau, Quebec K1A 0G3
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 and how you’re applying.
Fees and methods of payment for in-Canada applications (opens in a new tab)
You won’t receive 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.
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 pickup 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
If you paid for a pickup 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.
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.
You need to contact us as soon as possible to report the theft or loss of your previous passport.
Apply for a child’s passport as a foster parent or adoptive parent of a child in foster care or on probationary adoption
1. Complete the form
- 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.
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 also get walk-in services at a Service Canada Centre or a passport office (opens in a new tab) .
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) .
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.
Mailing address (non-courier)
Government of Canada
Passport Program
Gatineau, Quebec K1A 0G3
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.
Mailing address (non-courier)
Government of Canada
Passport Program
PO Box 4000 STN LCD 3
Mississauga, Ontario L5K 0A9
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.
Mailing address (non-courier)
Government of Canada
Passport Program
Gatineau, Quebec K1A 0G3
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 and how you’re applying.
Fees and methods of payment for in-Canada applications (opens in a new tab)
You won’t receive 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.
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 pickup 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.
You need to contact us as soon as possible to report the theft or loss of your previous passport.
Apply for a child’s passport as a foster parent or adoptive parent of a child on private probationary adoption
1. Complete the form
- 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.
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 also get walk-in services at a Service Canada Centre or a passport office (opens in a new tab) .
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) .
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.
Mailing address (non-courier)
Government of Canada
Passport Program
Gatineau, Quebec K1A 0G3
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.
Mailing address (non-courier)
Government of Canada
Passport Program
PO Box 4000 STN LCD 3
Mississauga, Ontario L5K 0A9
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.
Mailing address (non-courier)
Government of Canada
Passport Program
Gatineau, Quebec K1A 0G3
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 and how you’re applying.
Fees and methods of payment for in-Canada applications (opens in a new tab)
You won’t receive 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.
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 pickup 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.
Apply for a child’s passport as a director of family services, social worker or child protection worker
1. Complete the form
- 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.
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 also get walk-in services at a Service Canada Centre or a passport office (opens in a new tab) .
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) .
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.
Mailing address (non-courier)
Government of Canada
Passport Program
Gatineau, Quebec K1A 0G3
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.
Mailing address (non-courier)
Government of Canada
Passport Program
PO Box 4000 STN LCD 3
Mississauga, Ontario L5K 0A9
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.
Mailing address (non-courier)
Government of Canada
Passport Program
Gatineau, Quebec K1A 0G3
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 and how you’re applying.
Fees and methods of payment for in-Canada applications (opens in a new tab)
You won’t receive 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.
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 pickup 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.
Apply for a child’s passport as a licensee or representative of a licensed adoption agency
1. Complete the form
- 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.
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 also get walk-in services at a Service Canada Centre or a passport office (opens in a new tab) .
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) .
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.
Mailing address (non-courier)
Government of Canada
Passport Program
Gatineau, Quebec K1A 0G3
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.
Mailing address (non-courier)
Government of Canada
Passport Program
PO Box 4000 STN LCD 3
Mississauga, Ontario L5K 0A9
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.
Mailing address (non-courier)
Government of Canada
Passport Program
Gatineau, Quebec K1A 0G3
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 and how you’re applying.
Fees and methods of payment for in-Canada applications (opens in a new tab)
You won’t receive 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.
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 pickup 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.
Page details
- Date modified: