How to Apply for Your First Canadian Passport: A Complete Guide for New Citizens
Newly Naturalized? Here’s What You Should Know About Getting Your First Canadian Passport
Becoming a Canadian citizen is a major milestone, but the journey doesn’t end there. One of the most important next steps is applying for your first Canadian passport—a powerful document granting visa-free access to 188 countries and territories worldwide as of 2025.
While your citizenship gives you the legal right to live and work in Canada indefinitely, you are not automatically issued a Canadian passport upon becoming a citizen. You must apply for it separately, and the process includes submitting proof of identity, selecting a guarantor, and paying the necessary fees.
Here’s a comprehensive breakdown of what new Canadian citizens need to know when applying for their first passport.
Why a Canadian Passport Is Worth It
Canada’s passport ranks as one of the strongest globally, currently sitting at #7 on the world passport index in 2025. It provides visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 188 destinations, making international travel significantly easier.
Even though Canadian citizens don’t technically need a passport to re-enter the country, showing one at the border expedites your return and avoids any complications with international carriers or immigration officers abroad.
Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for Your First Canadian Passport
1. Collect Required Documents
Before you can begin your passport application, gather the following essential documents:
Proof of Canadian Citizenship
- Naturalized citizens must submit either:
- The original citizenship certificate (if issued in paper form), or
- A printed copy of your e-certificate (if requested digitally).
- Canadian citizens by descent must provide a certificate of citizenship.
- Individuals born in Canada typically use their provincial/territorial birth certificate.
Valid Identification
Acceptable forms of ID include:
- Provincial/territorial driver’s licence or health card
- Foreign passport
- Military or federal/provincial government-issued ID
- Government-issued employee identification
Important: If using a photocopy of your ID, both sides must be shown, and the copy must be signed and dated by your guarantor.
2. Choose a Guarantor and Two References
To verify your identity, your application must include:
One Guarantor
Your guarantor must:
- Be a Canadian citizen, 18 or older
- Have held a valid Canadian passport (5 or 10 years) that is either current or expired within the last year
- Have known you personally for at least two years
- Be available for contact if IRCC needs to confirm your details
Two References
Your references must:
- Be 18 or older
- Have known you for at least two years
- Not be a family member or your guarantor
| Requirement | Guarantor | References |
|---|---|---|
| Must be a Canadian citizen | Yes | No |
| Must have known you for 2+ years | Yes | Yes |
| Must be over 18 | Yes | Yes |
| Can be a family member | Yes | No |
| Must hold a valid or recent passport | Yes | No |
| Must be reachable by IRCC | Yes | Yes |
3. Have Official Passport Photos Taken
You’ll need two identical passport photos taken at a licensed studio.
On the back of one photo, the studio must include:
- Full company name
- Complete address
- Date the photo was taken
Additionally, your guarantor must sign the back of one photo to confirm your identity.
4. Complete the Application Form
Download the official passport application from the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website. Fill it out carefully and truthfully. Once complete, you can submit your application in two ways:
- In Person at a Service Canada Centre
- You can book an appointment online or walk in
- By Mail
- Original documents will be returned to you by post
5. Submit and Pay the Application Fee
Fees depend on the validity period of the passport:
| Passport Type | Cost |
|---|---|
| 5-Year Adult Passport | $120 CAD |
| 10-Year Adult Passport | $160 CAD |
Expect a processing time of up to 20 business days for regular applications submitted in Canada. Some Service Canada offices offer faster options:
- Express Pickup (2–9 business days): +$50 fee
- Emergency Services (Next business day): available only for urgent reasons, such as medical emergencies or immediate travel needs.
Emergency Pickup Note: This service is offered at select passport offices, not standard Service Canada locations. Proof of urgency is required and appointments are not needed.
How Will You Receive Your Passport?
Once approved, your passport will be sent via mail unless you paid for in-person pickup. Delivery by mail typically takes around 5 business days.
Final Thought: Consider Legal Guidance
Applying for your first Canadian passport marks the final step in your citizenship journey. While the process is manageable, some individuals opt to work with an immigration lawyer to ensure everything is done correctly—especially when tight travel timelines are involved.
For a consultation about Immigration options, reach out to the CAD IMMIGRATION today!
