by Cristina Zohil-Morton
Share
by Cristina Zohil-Morton
Share
How to Apply for a Canadian Passport in 2025?
The Canadian passport is one of the most powerful travel documents in the world, offering visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to over 180 countries. Whether you’re applying for the first time or renewing an existing passport, it’s important to understand the eligibility criteria, documentation requirements, and application process in 2025.
Who Can Apply for a Canadian Passport?
To apply for a Canadian passport, you must be a Canadian citizen. Permanent residents are not eligible until they obtain citizenship. The passport is issued by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), which oversees both domestic and international applications.
Types of Canadian Passports
Canada issues several types of passports based on the purpose of travel and the applicant’s role or status. Here’s what you need to know about each one:
Regular Passport
Canada issues regular (blue) passports to Canadian citizens for casual travel, such as:
- Vacations
- Business trips
The regular passport has 36 pages. Validity depends on the age of the passport holder:
- Adults (age 16 or older): choose a 5-year or 10-year passport
- Children (aged 0 to 15): issued passports for a maximum of 5 years
Diplomatic Passport
We issue diplomatic passports to:
- Diplomats
- High-ranking Government of Canada officials
- Representatives and delegates of the Government of Canada
Diplomatic passports are used for travel to:
- A post abroad
- International governmental organizations and diplomatic conferences
The issuing office determines the validity period.
Special Passport
We issue special passports to:
- Senators
- Members of Parliament
- Government of Canada employees traveling in a non-diplomatic capacity
Special passports are used for travel:
- To a post abroad
- On an official mission
The issuing office determines the validity period.
Temporary Passport
Some Canadian government offices abroad may issue temporary passports:
- To Canadian citizens with an urgent and proven need
- For use while waiting for a regular, special, or diplomatic passport
The issuing office determines the validity, up to a maximum of 1 year.
How to Apply for a Canadian Passport in 2025
You can apply in person at a passport office, by mail, or from outside Canada through a Canadian embassy or consulate. As of 2025, IRCC offers a simplified renewal process for eligible applicants.
Application Requirements
- Proof of Canadian citizenship (birth certificate or citizenship certificate)
- Valid government-issued photo ID
- Two identical passport photos
- A guarantor
- Two references
- The completed renewal form (PPTC 054)
- Applicable fees (starting at $120 for adults)
Processing Times
Standard processing times in Canada are currently:
- Standard processing: 20 business days
- Urgent processing (in-person only): next business day
- Express processing (in-person only): 2 to 9 business days
- By mail: 20 business days, excluding mailing time
- Online (if eligible): 20 business days
- In person: 10 business days at select Service Canada Centres
Canadian Passport Validity Period
Canadian passports are valid for:
- 5 or 10 years (adults)
- 5 years (children under 16)
It’s advisable to renew your passport at least 6 months before expiry, especially if you plan to travel internationally.
What If You’ve Lost Your Passport?
If your passport is lost, stolen, or damaged, report it immediately to IRCC and complete the Declaration of Lost or Stolen Passport form. Replacement applications typically follow a similar process to first-time applications.
How We Can Help
At Zohil-Morton Law, we provide trusted legal advice to help you navigate complex Canadian immigration processes.
Still have questions? Book a consultation today with Cristina Zohil-Morton and the team at Zohil-Morton Law.
Stay Informed
To stay updated on Canadian immigration news, policy changes, and legal updates, follow us on social media:
We’re here to keep you informed and empowered on your Canadian immigration journey.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Canadian Passport
Can permanent residents apply for a Canadian passport?
No. Only Canadian citizens are eligible for a Canadian passport. If you are a permanent resident, you must first become a citizen.
Can I travel while my passport application is in process?
You will not be able to travel internationally without a valid passport. Wait until you have received your new passport before making travel arrangements.
What is the quickest way to get a Canadian passport?
IRCC offers urgent and express services, available in special cases with proof of travel. These services can process applications in as little as 2-5 business days.
STAY IN THE LOOP
