“New Citizen? How to Apply for Your First Canadian Passport”

How to Apply for Your First Canadian Passport: A Complete Guide for New Citizens

Becoming a Canadian citizen is a huge milestone—congrats if you’ve recently crossed that finish line! But if you’re wondering whether citizenship includes a passport, here’s the scoop: just because you’re a Canadian citizen doesn’t mean you automatically get a passport. You’ll need to apply for it separately.

Whether you’ve already started gathering your documents or are just now starting to think about applying, this guide will walk you through all the steps to apply for your first Canadian passport—so you can travel with ease and confidence.

Key Highlights

• Canadian passports must be applied for separately, even after you’ve become a citizen.
• You’ll need proof of citizenship, identity documents, a guarantor, and two references.
• Passport photos must meet specific requirements and be signed by your guarantor.
• You can submit your application by mail or in person at Service Canada.
• Standard processing takes around 20 business days—faster options are available for urgent travel.
• Canadian passport holders can travel visa-free to 188 destinations worldwide.

Why Should You Apply for a Canadian Passport?

If you’ve recently become a citizen, applying for a Canadian passport is the next logical step. Not only does it make travelling a whole lot easier, but it also serves as an internationally recognized proof of your Canadian citizenship.

As of 2025, Canada’s passport ranks seventh in the world, giving holders visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 188 countries. That’s a big deal if you love to explore or have family overseas.

Plus, having a Canadian passport makes re-entering Canada much smoother—even though you don’t need one to get back into the country, it certainly helps avoid delays at the border.

Step-by-Step: How to Apply for Your First Canadian Passport

Step 1: Gather Required Documents

Before you begin filling out any forms, make sure you have the right paperwork on hand:

✔️ Proof of Citizenship

• If you’re naturalized, this means your Canadian citizenship certificate. You can use either the original paper copy or print out your e-certificate if that’s what you received.
• If you’re Canadian by birth, your provincial or territorial birth certificate will do.
• For those born outside Canada but with Canadian parents, you’ll need your proof of citizenship.

✔️ Proof of Identity

You’ll also need a valid ID that shows your name, date of birth, and photo. Acceptable examples include:

• Provincial/territorial driver’s licence or health card
• Canadian or foreign passport
• Government-issued ID card (federal, provincial, or territorial)
• Military identification
• Government employee ID

Photocopies are allowed as long as you include both sides and have your guarantor sign and date them.

Step 2: Choose a Guarantor and References

This step trips up a lot of first-time applicants, but let’s break it down:

✔️ Guarantor

Your guarantor must:

• Be a Canadian citizen, 18 or older
• Have known you personally for at least two years
• Hold a valid Canadian passport (or one expired for less than a year)
• Be available if contacted by Passport Canada

✔️ References

You also need two references who:

• Are 18 or older
• Have known you for at least two years
• Are not family members or your guarantor

Here’s a quick comparison to help clarify:

Step 3: Get Your Passport Photos Taken

Passport photos must meet specific requirements. Visit a professional photo studio familiar with Canadian passport standards. You’ll need two identical photos, and on the back of one, the photographer must include:

• Studio or company name
• Complete mailing address
• Date the photo was taken

Additionally, your guarantor must sign the back of one photo to confirm it’s a true likeness of you.

Step 4: Complete the Application Form

You can download the passport application from the IRCC website. The form will ask for all the usual information, plus details from your guarantor and references.

Once the form is filled out and signed, you can submit it one of two ways:

• In Person: Visit a Service Canada Centre. Walk-ins are welcome, but booking an appointment may save you time.
• By Mail: Send your completed form and documents to the address listed on the form. Originals will be returned to you.

Step 5: Pay the Fees and Submit

Fees depend on the type of passport and service level you choose:

• 5-year adult passport: $120
• 10-year adult passport: $160

Standard processing takes about 20 business days, but you can pay extra for quicker service:

• Express Pickup (2–9 business days): Additional $50
• Urgent Pickup (next business day): Requires proof of travel and must be submitted at a passport office offering emergency services

Delivery is usually by mail unless you’ve paid for an in-person pickup option.

Final Thoughts: Your Passport Is Your Gateway

Applying for your first Canadian passport is an exciting and important part of your journey as a new citizen. With the right documents, a bit of prep, and this guide in hand, you’ll be set for success.

And if you’re still navigating your immigration journey—maybe you’re considering options like the Manitoba PNP or other provincial nominee programs—don’t hesitate to explore more helpful resources right here on our site.

Ready to take the next step? Whether you’re applying for your first passport or exploring permanent residency pathways, check out our other posts or contact us for more personalized guidance.