On the other hand, your references should meet the following requirements
- Must be 18 and over
- Must have known you for two years or more
- Cannot be a family member or guarantor
Be sure to choose people who are easy to reach and are okay with their information being used in your passport application.
Step 3– Take Official Passport Photos
Next, you will need two official passports, which must be taken in a professional studio. One of the photos should include;
- The photographer’s official business name and valid address of operation
- The date this passport photo was taken
- Your guarantor’s official signature on the back of the photo
Step 4- Fill Out and Submit your Application
Visit the official Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada, download the application form, and complete it carefully. Once done, you can then submit it along with other required documentation.
- In person at any Service Canada Center or
- By mail
Applicants who submit their documents by mail will receive their original documents back by mail. For in-person submissions, you can visit the Service Canada center with or without an appointment.
Step 5: Submit Your Application, Pay, and Wait
You will need to pay an application fee when submitting your documents. This might be:
- $120 for a 5-year passport (Adults)
- $ 160 for a 10-year passport (Adult)
If you are on a tight schedule and need your passport as soon as possible, you can choose to pay more for a faster processing time. When you opt for Express Pickup, your passport will be ready in 2-9 days. However, you will have to pay an extra $50 for this special service.
Generally, standard processing takes up to 20 business days. However, some Canadian service centers are able to process it in as little as 10 days. Once approved, your passport will be sent to you via mail, which takes up to 5 business days unless you have paid for delivery services.
You Might Want to Lawyer Up
Let’s get this clear: it is totally possible to complete the entire application on your own. However, some people prefer to have the input, guidance, and expert help of an immigration lawyer, especially if you are handling other post-citizenship tasks or want a guarantee that nothing will go wrong.
Looking Ahead
Getting your first Canadian passport may seem like a daunting process with an overwhelming amount of paperwork. However, once you have all the necessary documents in order and understand the steps, the process becomes significantly easy and straightforward. Whether you are planning your first international trip as a Canadian or you simply want to have this crucial document at hand, this guide will get it done with no surprises.
