refugee travel document canada guarantor

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How can I get travel documents if I am a protected person in Canada?

Passport Canada issues refugee travel documents and certificates of identity to protected persons in Canada.  This is the case whether you are stateless or if you have citizenship from another country.

Important Note : US border services have recently made changes to who may enter the US. Please read this article for more information.

If you are a protected person or stateless person in Canada, but not yet a Canadian citizen, you may still be able to travel with documents issued by Passport Canada .  However, these documents do not allow you to travel to your country of citizenship.  Obtaining these documents can take several months, and it is recommended that you do not make travel plans until you receive them.

If you are a refugee or protected person you may be given a refugee travel document . In some cases you may be given a certificate of identity .

Once you have submitted your application form and supporting documents, Passport Canada will decide which document you are eligible for.  There are fees for both documents. Not all countries recognize certificates of identity; therefore, you should check with the consulate or embassy of the country you are planning to visit about their entry requirements.

Application

To apply for either document, you must fill in an  application form , sign it and, ask a guarantor and two references to sign it as well. A guarantor is a person who can confirm your identity. The requirements for guarantors are listed on the application form. Only certain people can be a guarantor for your application.

Along with the application form, you will need to submit the following documents: 

• A document showing your immigration status in Canada, such as a protected person document, verification of status document or temporary resident permit
• One identity document
• Passport size photographs
• Any other passports, travel documents or certificates of identity (valid or expired) you have from Canada or another country
• Children’s applications must include a document showing who their biological or adoptive parents are

It is also important to remember that if you are travelling to a country that requires a visa , you will need to obtain one.  When you travel, you should also bring documentation proving your status in Canada to show immigration officials upon your return to Canada.

For More Information

Applying for a Travel Document   - A webpage with information about how to apply for a travel document.  The page includes detailed application specifications, a listing of fees for children and adults and a link to the application form.  From Service Canada.

• IRCC Help Centre - A tool that helps answer frequently asked questions on immigration matters. It offers several ways of searching through the information available, including search by keyword. From Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada.

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Apply for a travel document for non-Canadians: How to apply

• About the process
• Who can apply
• How to apply
• After you apply

Refugee travel document and certificate of identity services are now available

If you already applied and now need a travel document urgently, contact us .

Tell us if your travel document application is now urgent

Fill out our web form :

• Under Type of application/enquiry, select Certificate of Identity/Refugee Travel Document
• include your travel date
• include the reason you need the travel document

Answer a few questions to find out how to apply. Keep in mind

•   you need to be in Canada to get service
•   In person services are not available.

Are you in Canada right now?

Who is the travel document or certificate of identity for?

The application process is the same for both documents.

When do you need the travel document?

• 30 business days or less
• 31 business days or more

Apply for a travel document or certificate of identity – adults (16 years of age or over)

Floods in British Columbia

If you’re directly affected by the floods, you may be able to get

• free replacement of documents that are lost, damaged, destroyed or inaccessible due to the floods
• urgent processing and a refund for an application you’ve submitted because of the floods

Find out how to apply

1. Contact us for next steps

Fill out our web form .

• Under Type of application/enquiry , select Certificate of Identity/Refugee Travel Document.
• Include the date you need the travel document and the reason you need it.

After you fill out the form, we’ll contact you and give you information on the next steps.

• While you wait for us to contact you, you can start getting your application ready.

The application form is the same for travel documents and certificates of identity.

2. Complete the form

To save time, complete the form on a computer. Sign each page of the application.

Download the adult travel document application [PPTC 190] (PDF, 1.64 MB)

Someone else can help you complete the form, like a family member or a friend you trust. However, they must be 18 years of age or older.

If you can’t write and won’t be able to sign your document once you get it, include a medical letter explaining that you don’t write.

Instructions and tips

• 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.
• 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

3. Gather all necessary documents and get a passport photo

Here is a list of necessary documents:

• Your proof of immigration status in Canada
• the original document or
• a photocopy of it signed by your guarantor
• Any valid passport or travel document issued in your name
• They can handwrite this or use a stamp.
• Stick-on labels are not accepted.
• Your guarantor must sign it and write, “I certify this to be a true likeness of (your name).”
• Read the full photo requirements for more information.

All your documents must be in English or French. If a document is in another language, provide an official translation .

You may need extra documents if you’re

• changing your name
• replacing a lost, stolen or damaged travel document
• changing the sex on your travel document

4. Find a guarantor and 2 references

You need a guarantor who meets the requirements for a travel document to sign

• your application
• the back of 1 of your passport photos
• the front and back of all photocopies of your supporting identity documents (ID)

You also need 2  references to include on your application.

Your references and guarantor must have known you for at least 6 months. Learn who’s eligible to act as a guarantor and as a reference .

We’re working to deliver travel document services as quickly as we can. Due to high volumes, processing times may be longer than usual.

Apply for a travel document or certificate of identity – children (under 16 years of age)

The application form is the same for travel documents and certificates of identity. Once we receive your application, we decide

• which type of travel document to give the child
• how long it will be valid for
• Under Type of application/enquiry , select Certificate of Identity/Refugee Travel Document .

While you wait for us to contact you, you can start getting the child’s application ready.

To save time, complete the form on a computer.

Download the child travel document application [PPTC 192] (PDF, 1.64 MB)

Someone else can help you complete the form, like a family member or a friend you trust. However, they must be 18 years of age or older.

• the child’s proof of immigration status in Canada
• any valid passport or travel document issued in the child’s name
• 2 identical passport photos

On the back of 1 of the passport photos, the photographer must write all of the following:

• the complete address of their studio
• the date the photo was taken

The photographer can

• write this information by hand or
• use a stamp

The guarantor must

• sign the photo and
• write “I certify this to be a true likeness of (the child’s name)”
• changing the child’s name
• changing the sex on the child’s travel document

4. Find a guarantor

• the child’s application
• the back of 1 of the child’s passport photos

The guarantor must have known you for at least 6 months and must know of your child. Learn who’s eligible to act as a guarantor .

1. Complete the form

• If you can’t open the form,  follow these instructions .
• To get a Braille instruction booklet or large-print forms,  contact us .
• fill in the field with the surname (last name) at birth of 1 parent and

2. Gather all necessary documents and get a passport photo

Include the following documents with your application form:

• a photocopy of your proof of immigration status in Canada
• any valid passport or travel document issued in your name
• your guarantor must sign it and write “I certify this to be a true likeness of (your name)”

3. Find a guarantor and 2 references

You also need 2 references to include on your application.

Your references and guarantor must have known you for at least 6 months. Learn who’s eligible to act as a guarantor and as a reference .

4. Pay your fees

Your fees and payment methods depend on which document you apply for.

Fees and how to pay them (opens in a new tab)  

5. Submit your application

You need to apply by mail. In person services are not available.

We recommend you use a certified courier or traceable mail service to reduce delivery time, protect your documents and track delivery.

Courier address

Centralized Network – Certificate of Identity Section – Crémazie 6th Floor (OSC) 365 Laurier Avenue West Ottawa, Ontario K1A 1L1

Mailing address (non-courier)

OSC PPT-COI PO Box 8783 STN T CSC Ottawa, Ontario K1G 5G8

• which type of travel document to give you

Download the child travel document application [PPTC 192] (PDF, 1.77 MB)

• a photocopy of the child’s proof of immigration status in Canada
• any valid passport or travel document in the child’s name
• 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

All documents must be sent in either English or French. If a document is in another language, you must provide an official translation .

You may need extra documents if

• your child’s name has changed
• you’re replacing a lost, stolen or damaged travel document
• you’re updating the gender identifier on your child’s travel document

3. Find a guarantor

You’ll need to find a guarantor to sign

• the back of 1 of the photos

Your guarantor must

• be a permanent resident or a Canadian citizen
• live in Canada
• have known you (the child’s parent or legal guardian) personally for at least 6 months and know of the child
• registered or licensed and
• currently works in their field

See the list of eligible occupations, as well as the full requirements for a travel document guarantor .

Proof of immigration status documents

Documents you can use as proof of immigration status in Canada include

• a valid permanent resident card
• a temporary resident permit
• a notice of decision from the Immigration and Refugee Board (IRB)
• an IRCC verification of status (VOS) document
• a positive pre-removal risk assessment (PRRA) results letter

You need to be in Canada to apply for a travel document

Travel document services aren’t available outside of Canada.

If you have an emergency, contact the nearest Government of Canada office abroad .

How to open our forms

You need to

• The forms may not open on mobile devices (iPads, tablets, mobile phones).
• save the file on your computer in a place you can remember
• If you don’t have it, download Adobe Reader 10 for free.
• Adobe has help for solving common issues with Reader .

For more help, see our step-by-step instructions on downloading and opening PDFs . If you still have trouble opening the forms, contact us online or call us at 1-800-567-6868. If you’re outside Canada or the United States, contact the closest Canadian government office abroad .

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Home » Refugee Claims » Travel Document for Canadian Refugees

Travel Document for Canadian Refugees

Refugees in Canada may receive travel documents. However, you must meet the requirements. Also, Canada may issue a certificate of identity for particular permanent residents in Canada.

• Who qualifies?
• The appearance of a travel document
• Application process
• Mailing address
• Let us help !

Who qualifies for a refugee travel document?

To qualify for a refugee travel document, you must be a protected person . Unfortunately, refugee claimants do not qualify. Also, you may apply for a certificate of identity if,

• You are a permanent resident of Canada, but not a protected person, and
• You cannot obtain a passport from another country.

What does a travel document look like?

A travel document is similar to a Canadian passport . However, the cover looks different. Also, your nationality will not be Canadian . Therefore, you may need visas to travel to those countries that Canadians are visa-exempt . Moreover, you may not travel to the country that you sought protection. For example, if you are from Afghanistan, you may not use a refugee travel document to visit that country.

How to apply for a travel document?

If you are a protected person and live inside Canada, you must follow these steps. Unfortunately, you cannot apply if you are outside Canada.

• Complete the application form. Of course, the form is different for adults and children .
• a photocopy of your  proof of immigration status in Canada
• the original document  or
• a photocopy of it signed by your guarantor
• any  valid passport or travel document  issued in your name
• They can handwrite this  or  use a stamp.
• Stick-on labels are  not  accepted.
• your  guarantor  must sign it  and write, “I certify this to be a true likeness of (your name).”
• replacing a stolen, damaged, or lost document
• changing your name
• reflecting sex change in your travel document
• You need a guarantor and two references to include in your application package.
• Pay the necessary fees and include the receipt in your package.
• Mail the package to the appropriate address.

Of course, include any documents that could assist officers in processing your application.

Where to mail the application package

When you have a complete application package, mail it to one of the following addresses. However, these addresses are subject to change. Make sure to double-check them.

Let us help!

We can help you with your refugee travel document application. Please fill out the following form to contact us. Alternatively, please book a consultation session with me . Of course, you may also fill out our refugee form if you are inside Canada and intend to file for asylum.

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Disclaimer: This article provides information of a general nature only. Considering the fluid nature of the immigration world, it may no longer be current. Of course, the item does not give legal advice. Therefore, do not rely on it as legal advice or immigration advice. Consequently, no one could hold us accountable for the content of these articles. Of course, if you have specific legal questions, you must consult a lawyer. Alternatively, if you are looking for immigration advice, book an appointment.

The characters and places in the articles: All the characters and locations in the articles are fictional, unless otherwise clearly stated. Therefore, any resemblance in names, dates, and places is coincidental.

Important Notes: For our official addresses, trust this website only. We currently do not have offices outside Canada. Therefore, anyone who claims to be our agent is committing fraud. Also, note that we do not issue any work permits or study permits or similar documents. The government of Canada has the sole authority to issue such material.

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Can I apply for an eTA with a Refugee Travel Document?

No. Most people using a Refugee Travel Document to travel to Canada will  need a visitor visa .

Exceptions:

• If you have a valid  Canadian Refugee Travel document , you are exempt from both the visa and eTA requirements.
• If you’re a lawful permanent resident of the United States and don’t have a passport, you can travel to Canada with your valid U.S. Refugee Travel Document (I-571) and official proof of your lawful permanent resident status.

You need an official proof of status as a lawful permanent resident of the U.S., such as one of the following:

• valid permanent resident card (Form I-551)
• foreign passport with an unexpired temporary I-551 stamp (also known as an Alien Documentation, Identification and Telecommunication [ADIT] stamp)
• foreign passport with a temporary I-551 printed notation (“Upon endorsement serves as temporary I-551 evidencing permanent residence for 1 year”) on a machine-readable immigrant visa upon endorsement with a U.S. Customs and Border Protection admission stamp
• expired permanent resident card (Form I-551) with Form I-797 (Notice of Action) for pending Form I-751 (Petition to Remove Conditions on Residence) or Form I-829 (Petition by Investor to Remove Conditions on Permanent Resident Status)
• expired permanent resident card (Form I-551) with Form I-797 (Notice of Action) for pending Form I-90 (Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card [green card])
• valid re-entry permit (Form I-327)
• Form I-94 with an unexpired temporary I-551 stamp (ADIT stamp) and a passport-style photo

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Refugee Travel Document - Questions and Answers

• Thread starter rainbowbee
• Start date Feb 8, 2016

Me: Is that forbidden now to travel using my home country’s passport? I heard that I can lose my PR status if I do. Officer: No, it’s not forbidden, you can certainly travel on your home country’s passport, it will not impact your PR status, we just not advising it. You should apply for RTD and use that to travel. Me: Why you are not advising it? Officer: Because if something happens to you while you are travelling, you will not be able to get a consular assistance from Canada using your national passport. Me: Okay, I already have a RTD and I want to continue using it, but when I applied for it on application form it says that I must return RTD once I obtain a national passport, which you just returned to me. Officer: There must have been some kind of mistake on their form, you don’t have to return it, I would suggest you contact “Certificate of Identity Section - Passport Program” department directly and ask. Click to expand...

Agent: Yes, you must return RTD and apply for Certificate of Identity, because you are no longer a refugee, you are a Permanent Resident. I am surprised CIC returned your national passport to you. Me: I believe it’s normal practice, several people I know also got their national passports back once they became PRs. I politely disagree with you on that one, I am still considered to be a refugee and PR at the same time. Click to expand...

Me: I just became a PR and CIC returned my national passport, on RTD application form it says that I must return it to you once I got my national passport back, but I have concerns regarding travelling on my national passport. Is that even allowed? When I landed, officer told me that it’s not forbidden. I spoke with call center agent before who referred my call to you and he said I need to apply for Certificate of Identity, because I am no longer considered a refugee, I disagree. Officer: It’s good that you contacted us, not many people are so proactive after they become PRs. Previous agent gave you wrong information, you don’t need to return to us your RTD and and COI is not for you. You were right, once you became a PR, it doesn’t change anything, you still considered to be a Convention Refugee. When you send us application form PPTC 190, you are going to get only one type of a document. Government is not going to decide whether you going to RTD or COI, it has already been decided, based on your status and with your status you are going to get a Refugee Travel Document, whether you are Permanent Resident or not yet. It’s not forbidden to travel on your national passport, but CBSA may strip your refugee status because of that. Me: That’s what I thought. Thank you for clarifying that information, I am glad I trusted my gut and contacted you. Officer: What you must do though, is send us your National Passport. You need to send it to us and we will keep it, It’s important to understand that you cannot have two valid Travel Documents in your possession, it’s a security risk and that’s our main concern and that’s why it says that you must return RTD in case you obtain a national passport. Me: Are you going to return my national passport back to me at some point in the future? Officer: Yes, in two cases – If it’s expired, or when you become a Canadian Citizen. Me: That makes sense Officer: And now that you became a PR, you are eligible to receive a RTD valid for 5 years! Me: That’s a great news! Thank you! I thought two years was too short in my opinion. Officer: But you must wait for your PR card in order to apply, just send us explanation letter along with your application, national passport and PR card and you should be able to get a new RTD for 5 years. PR card will be returned to you. Me: Thank you! I knew something is up, why do you think previous agent gave me wrong information? Officer: I believe it’s because you talked with Passport Canada call center which handles all calls, but they are not really trained into specifics of RTD and COI. And I am actually officer who is processing these applications. Me: Thank a lot! You made my day! Click to expand...

Dear Rainbowbee On behalf of all refugees, I must say "Thank You very Much" for sharing this detailed information. Really it will help to get the minds clear about traveling as well as the issuance of RTD. keep posting we need such kind of updates once again thanks May Allah bless you. regards  

LoveCanada10

Star member.

Thanks Ranbowbee. You did a great job providing this very important and accurate information. I'll try to translate it to Arabic so the Arab community can benefit from it too (after your permission). Now, I'd suggest we use this post to share our travel experience using our Travel Document. I'll be the first to share hoping others jump on board too. I got mine last year for 2 years too. I am still not a PR. I applied for Schengen Visa and had to travel to Ottawa for the finger print to get my visa. I received the visa by mail in 2 weeks. I traveled by air to Germany and cleared Schengen Zone with no issue. Then I traveled all around Germany using different transportation methods. I flew to Czech Republic. Rode a bus to Poland. Mini bus to Slovenia. Another bus to Hungary. Slovenia-Hungary border was the only border, they came on the bus and checked passports. Speed train from Hungary to Austria. Train from Austria to Switzerland. Train to the Netherlands. Bus to Belgium. Fly back to Canada. All went very smooth with no issue. I might be able to try different European countries again this year. However, I am thinking of going without Schengen Visa this time to save $ but don't think the risk/reward worth it specially with all the Migration issues in Europe. Let's hear from the others.  

Ottawa-applicant

Hero member.

Awesome post +1 for this. Thank you for sharing this valuable information, many people still not sure whether they can travel or not. And as you mentioned Canada is great country who care about people rights even if they’re Refuges. Thank you, Now we need someone to post about the RTD: countries where it doesn’t need visa’s, I have seen this topic floats many times.  

it s good information I just want to say RTD need visa for Europe and don't do any risk because of some money. I traveled in 2013 with RTD to Norway, I got visa and I delivered within 10 days. When I want left Canada first Question was ... do you got visa ? Anyway I left Canada without any issue but when i want to back to Canada in Amsterdam they asked me how you entered to Europe? I answered them from Paris. Officer asked me so why they didn't stamped ? I answer I have no idea why they didn't. So they hold me for 1 hour to check if it s true or not and they asked for PR card and I answered them I didn't get it yet. after 1 hour they told me u can go now we check it and everything is fine.just they stamped in Netherlands when I back.  

artin2015 said: it s good information I just want to say RTD need visa for Europe and don't do any risk because of some money. I traveled in 2013 with RTD to Norway, I got visa and I delivered within 10 days. When I want left Canada first Question was ... do you got visa ? Anyway I left Canada without any issue but when i want to back to Canada in Amsterdam they asked me how you entered to Europe? I answered them from Paris. Officer asked me so why they didn't stamped ? I answer I have no idea why they didn't. So they hold me for 1 hour to check if it s true or not and they asked for PR card and I answered them I didn't get it yet. after 1 hour they told me u can go now we check it and everything is fine.just they stamped in Netherlands when I back. Click to expand...

Countries in Europe which accept RTD without visa: 1. Germany 2. Hungary 3. Slovenia 4. Slovakia Countries in Europe which do NOT accept RTD: 1. Norway 2. Iceland 3. Spain 4. Portugal Actually there is an excel file on EU web site for what countries accept what documents. I can't find it now!!  

I just found this. I am not sure if this means Finland doesn't need a visa from us too. http://formin.finland.fi/public/default.aspx?contentid=182867&nodeid=15720&contentlan=2&culture=en-US  

Finally found it: Go here http://ec.europa.eu/dgs/home-affairs/what-we-do/policies/borders-and-visas/index_en.htm and then first under info. Direct URL is: http://ec.europa.eu/dgs/home-affairs/what-we-do/policies/borders-and-visas/document-security/docs/part_i_travel_documents_issued_by_third_countries_and_territorial_entities_en.xlsm It seems NORWAY accepts our RTD. Only below do not accept RTD in Schengen Zone: Spain Latvia Iceland Malta This is awesome news. I am going to go to Norway this year. Anyone else active here?  

LoveCanada10 said: Hello, You traveled to Norway with RTD? Norway and Iceland do NOT accept RTD. I'd love to go to these two countries. Can you tell me how you went there? Which country did you get your Schengen visa from and if you told them you are going to visit Norway? This is very important. Thanks Click to expand...

LoveCanada10 said: Finally found it: Go here http://ec.europa.eu/dgs/home-affairs/what-we-do/policies/borders-and-visas/index_en.htm and then first under info. Direct URL is: http://ec.europa.eu/dgs/home-affairs/what-we-do/policies/borders-and-visas/document-security/docs/part_i_travel_documents_issued_by_third_countries_and_territorial_entities_en.xlsm It seems NORWAY accepts our RTD. Only below do not accept RTD in Schengen Zone: Spain Latvia Iceland Malta This is awesome news. I am going to go to Norway this year. Anyone else active here? Click to expand...

artin2015 said: i got visa from Denmark embassy just tell them for vista friends and it s easy they give u within 10 days and u pay $80 for visa fee .remember they do the finger print in embassy Click to expand...

artin2015 said: don't be exciting because those 5 country they don't recognize Canadian RTD even they don't give u visa with RTD but others country they recognize Canadian RTD with visa so see the form Click to expand...

good lock. Of course it s easy if u get visa. do u know Cuba need visa as well for RTD?  

• News & Events

Travel Documents for Those Who Are Not Canadian Citizens

If you are a Canadian citizen, you can apply for a Canadian passport and that is your travel document. If you are not a Canadian citizen and are instead a citizen of another country, and you have a passport from that country, then that passport is your travel document.

However, you should not use a passport from your country of origin if you have been found to be a Protected Person (Convention refugee) from that specific country. You could have your protected status taken away if it is found that you sought protection from a country that you were found to be afraid of.

If you are a Protected Person or Convention refugee, you can apply to get a Refugee Travel Document . If you are stateless or if you are a permanent resident of Canada (and not a Protected Person) and cannot obtain a passport from your country, or get a travel document from any other source, you can apply for a Certificate of Identity Document . You cannot use either of these documents to travel to your country of citizenship.

It is the same application form to apply for either the Refugee Travel Document or the Certificate of Identity Document. You cannot apply in person for these documents. You must complete the application form and submit it with your documents by mail or courier. These forms are available on the Government of Canada’s website . They are not available at a Canadian passport office. Please follow the instructions on the website. The adult application form is called PPTC190. The cost for an adult is $120 for a refugee document and $260 for a certificate of identity. The child application form is called PPTC192. The cost for a child for a refugee document is $57 and $141 for a certificate of identity.

You will need to have proof of your immigration status in Canada, a document that supports your identity, two (2) identical passport photos and the fee payment. You must also have a guarantor and two (2) references. The people who are your references and your guarantor must have known you personally for at least six (6) months. They cannot be your spouse or family members. The guarantor has to be from a work occupation listed in the application form. If you do not know such a person, you must then get a form called Statutory Declaration in Lieu of Guarantor . This form is not available online, you must go to a passport office to obtain it.

Please note that Don Valley Community Legal Services staff cannot sign as guarantors if the staff member has not known you personally for at least six (6) months. Our staff can verify your Statutory Declaration in Lieu of Guarantor if you can provide an explanation as to why you cannot find a guarantor.

The processing of your request for a travel document can take up to 30 days, but that is only a guideline and it can take longer. If your situation is urgent, you can ask for urgent processing of your application. This requires you to fill out a separate form online and provide the information on why you need urgent processing. You will need to show a serious medical emergency for a family member overseas or other types of emergencies. It is often valuable to ask your local Member of Parliament (MP) for assistance if you need urgent processing of your document.

Please read the explanations provided online for these travel documents so they are completed properly and have all of the required documents and fee payments.

***This is legal information and not legal advice. If you need further information or need legal advice, please call our Intake Line at 416-441-1764 ext. 1 or complete our online Intake Form .***

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Canadian passports.

A passport is the only reliable and universally accepted travel identification document and it proves that you have a right to return to Canada 

Canadian Travel Number

Avoid delays at the airport because your name is the same as, or similar to, that of someone on the No Fly List ( Secure Air Travel Act list)

NEXUS                                                  

If you travel between Canada and the United States often, a NEXUS card will save you time at the border

Permanent resident card

Permanent residents of Canada need a permanent resident card to re-enter Canada

Pre-boarding identification requirements

Information on the identification documents you need to bring to the airport

Travel documents for non-Canadians

Travel documents for convention refugees, protected persons or stateless persons living in Canada

Permits and certificates

Find out whether you need a visa for your destination and get it well in advance of your trip

Certificate of Canadian citizenship

A Canadian citizenship certificate is not a valid travel document

CITES permits

Information on permits to transport, import or export a listed wildlife species or items made from listed wildlife species

International Driving Permit

Your Canadian driver's licence may not be valid in your destination country

Travelling outside Canada with your vehicle

You may need a Carnet de Passages en Douane (CPD) to travel outside Canada with your vehicle.

International Certificate of Vaccination or Prophylaxis

Some countries may require you to show proof of vaccination  

Your pets need travel documents to enter another country

CANPASS - Private aircraft

CANPASS cards allow private aircraft to clear customs and immigration quickly and securely

More information

Consent letter for children travelling abroad.

A consent letter helps children travelling without both parents to enter foreign countries and re-enter Canada

Marriage outside Canada

Information on the legal issues involved in getting married abroad 

Notarial services

Information about getting notarial services while you are outside Canada

Travelling as a dual citizen

Information for Canadian dual citizens who are travelling to another country where they have citizenship

Travel insurance

Buy travel insurance before you travel outside Canada. Bring your insurance information with you. You may need to prove you have travel insurance to enter some countries

Mobile Passport Control app

Travellers can shorten the entry process to the U.S. by submitting their passport and customs declaration information through this app

What we are doing

Policies, acts and regulations.

• Canadian Passport Order
• Citizenship Act
• Identity Screening Regulations

Publications

• Bon voyage, but... Essential information for Canadian travellers
• Travelling with children

All related publications

• Apply online for a visa, study or work permit
• Steps to complete a passport application
• Nexus application
• CANPASS application
• CITES permit application forms

Find helpful information on health and safety, travel documents, baggage, airport security, country advice and more.

Information on a recommended consent letter for Canadian children travelling abroad.

You need a valid Canadian passport to board a flight to Canada.

Services Near Me

Can I travel outside Canada as a refugee?

Yes. If you're in Canada as a refugee, you can travel outside the country, but until you become a Canadian citizen, there are a few things to consider. This applies if you are a resettled refugee , whether privately sponsored or Government-Assisted, or you have been recognized as a protected person in Canada, either by the Immigration and Refugee Board of Canada (IRB) or through the Pre-Removal Risk Assessment (PRRA) process.

Required documents

You must apply through Passport Canada for a Refugee Travel Document in order to travel outside Canada.

Refugee travel document

A Refugee Travel Document can be used like a passport to travel to other countries, but will not allow you to return to your country of citizenship or to the country where you were persecuted.

This is not the same as having a Canadian passport. Countries that allow Canadians to enter without a visa may require a visa from a person travelling on a refugee travel document. You should always check the requirements for entry with the consulate or embassy of the country you'd like to visit when planning your trip.

The processing time for the travel document may vary. So, it is recommended that you wait until you have received your travel document and the necessary visas before making any specific travel plans.

To apply for a Refugee Travel Document, you must:

• Complete the application form under " Apply for a travel document for non-Canadians "
• Gather all necessary documents
• Obtain two identical passport photos
• Find a guarantor and two references
• Pay the fees

Important: If you came to Canada through a refugee resettlement program, or if you have been recognized as a refugee in Canada, you must not use a passport from your country of origin, as this could result in your status in Canada being revoked by cessation .

Re-entering Canada with a permanent resident card

If you are a permanent resident of Canada, a permanent resident card is required to re-enter the country . Make sure that your permanent resident card does not expire during your trip. If it does, you can obtain a Permanent Resident Travel Document (PRTD) while you're abroad.

For more information

• What does the word “refugee” mean? - An article from WelcomeOntario.
• Losing your right to remain in Canada: Cessation - You may consult the Canadian Council for Refugees summary.
• How can I get travel documents if I am a protected person in Canada? - An article from Settlement.Org.
• Can I lose my refugee status? - You will find information on the circumstances that can lead to the loss of refugee status on the website of Steps to Justice.

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References and Guarantors for Canadian passport applications Passport References and Guarantors for Canadian passport applications References and Guarantors for Canadian passport applications

• January 1, 2024
• I don’t really care…

Please be advised that this site is not affiliated with the Service Canada office. It was created to provide general passport information only.

References and guarantors help confirm your identity when you apply for a passport or travel document. We may contact them when we process your application.

You need a guarantor for your travel document application. As long as they meet these requirements, your guarantor can be anyone, including a family member or member of your household.

• Requirements for a regular (blue) passport submitted in Canada
• Requirements for a regular (blue) passport submitted outside Canada
• Requirements for military personnel applying for a regular (blue) passport
• Requirements for a certificate of identity or a refugee travel document

You  don’t  need a guarantor if you’re renewing your passport. You only need a guarantor if you’re applying for a passport for the first time or you aren’t  eligible to renew your passport .

Although most of the guarantor section on the form can be completed by you  or  your guarantor,  the following 4 fields must be completed by your guarantor :

• Signature of guarantor
• I have known the applicant for (number of years)

In addition, your guarantor must

• They must also sign the back of the same photo.
• This only applies to photocopies of ID and is  not  needed if you submit original documents.

Your guarantor can’t charge you money for this. You also can’t help the guarantor do any of the tasks listed above.  Contact us  if your guarantor needs help.

Guarantor requirements for a regular (blue) passport submitted in Canada

Your guarantor must

• If the guarantor is for your child’s passport, they must have known you for at least 2 years and must know of your child.
• be available if we need to contact them
• be a Canadian citizen 18 years of age or older
• provide the information needed that’s in their passport
• have been 16 years of age or older when they applied for their own passport
• expired for no more than 1 year,  or
• inaccessible
• suspended or revoked
• reported lost or stolen
• found and returned
• destroyed by us
• requested to be returned

If you’re the parent or legal guardian that is applying on behalf of a child, you cannot sign as guarantor on the child’s application. However, the other parent or legal guardian (not submitting the application) can sign as long as they meet the requirements.

If the child is adopted and needs a guarantor

If the child was placed by provincial family services for adoption, until the adoption is final (probationary adoption), the child’s guarantor can be the

• provincial director of family services
• director of the family services agency
• director of the incorporated institution (in Quebec)

Find out what to do  if you can’t find a guarantor .

Guarantor requirements for a regular (blue) passport submitted outside Canada

Your guarantor can be anyone who meets the basic  guarantor requirements for a regular (blue) passport in Canada , including a family member or member of your household.

Occupation-based guarantors

You may also use an occupation-based guarantor for an application submitted outside Canada, as long as that person is

• registered/licensed with the appropriate local authority to practice their profession
• currently working in that field
• veterinarian
• police officer
• notary public
• lawyer/notary
• medical doctor
• dean/head of university or college
• bank or trust company
• financial institution that offer a full range of banking services (cash withdrawals, deposits and savings)

If your occupation-based guarantor is retired

You can use them if their professional association still has your guarantor’s name on their list.

Guarantor requirements for military personnel applying for a regular (blue) passport

If you’re Regular Force personnel, Regular Military Force officers may act as guarantor for you and your dependants if they have known you personally for 2 years or more. These officers include

• NDHQ directors
• base commanders
• commanding officers
• NDHQ career managers
• NDHQ directors general
• personnel administrative officers
• Instead of indicating the number of years they have known you, they must write, “through service records which I have verified.”

Military police can only act as guarantors if you’re military personnel. They must have personally known you for at least 2 years.

Guarantor requirements if you’re applying for a certificate of identity or a refugee travel document

• live in Canada
• be a permanent resident of Canada  or  a Canadian citizen
• be available to verify your application
• If the guarantor is for your child’s documents, they must have known you for at least 6 months and must know of your child.
• be registered/licensed with the appropriate local authority to practice their profession
• currently work in that field

Your guarantor must be a member of one of these groups:

• optometrist
• dentist, medical doctor or chiropractor
• principal of a primary or secondary school
• senior administrator or teacher in a university
• professional engineer (P. Eng. or Ing. in Quebec)
• senior administrator in a community college (in Quebec, a CEGEP)
• judge, magistrate or police officer (municipal, provincial or RCMP)
• professional accountant (member of APA, CA, CGA, CMA, PA or RPA)
• lawyer (member of a provincial bar association), or notary in Quebec
• minister of religion authorized under provincial or territorial law to perform marriages

You can only use retired occupation-based guarantors if their name still appears on the listing provided to us by the relevant association.

If you can’t find a guarantor

• complete the  Statutory Declaration in Lieu of Guarantor form
• This person doesn’t need to know you personally.
• justice of the peace
• commissioner for oaths
• Canadian or British diplomatic or consular representative
• Qualified local official, such as a civil servant or member of Parliament

Statutory Declaration in Lieu of Guarantor form

The Statutory Declaration in Lieu of a Guarantor form is  not  available online. To get the form

• go to the nearest  passport service location  or
• contact us  to get a copy
• go to the nearest  Canadian embassy or consulate  or
• contact the nearest  Canadian embassy or consulate

You can’t use the same references on the Statutory Declaration in Lieu of Guarantor form that you included on your passport or travel document application.

You need 2 references for your travel document application.

Your references must

• be 18 years of age or older
• 2 years for passport applications
• 6 months for certificate of identity and refugee travel document applications
• agree to you using their name and contact information for your application

To avoid delays, make sure your references are available if or when we need to contact them.

• For example, they’re not travelling outside of the country.
• If they’re in a different time zone, it may take longer to contact them, which could delay your application.

We  may  ask for additional references at any time.

Who can’t be a reference

Your reference  can’t be

• your guarantor
• Whether you’re the opposite or same sex, you’re considered common-law partners if you’ve lived together in a marriage-like relationship for at least 1 year, but you  aren’t  legally married.
• However, if a marriage or common-law relationship has ended, your former spouse or partner  can  serve as a reference.
• parent, step-parent, foster parent, or a parent’s spouse or common-law partner
• mother-in-law or father-in-law
• child (biological, adopted, foster, or stepchild), or your child’s spouse or common-law partner
• son-in-law or daughter-in-law
• sibling (brother, half-brother or stepbrother, or sister, half-sister or stepsister), or your sibling’s spouse or common-law partner
• brother-in-law or sister-in-law
• grandparent (biological, adopted, step or foster grandparent), or your grandparent’s spouse or common-law partner
• grandmother-in-law or grandfather-in-law
• grandchild (biological, adopted, step or foster grandchild), or your grandchild’s spouse or common-law partner
• grandson-in-law or granddaughter-in-law
• For example, if your aunt, uncle or cousin lives with you, they  can’t  be a reference.

source: https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/canadian-passports/travel-documents-references-guarantors.html#outside-canada

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NOTARY P U B L I C

Travel document, purpose of  travel document.

If you are a refugee and need to travel outside Canada, you have to apply for a travel document in Canada. The Canadian Government has information available via the following link .

For the Application you need a guarantor who knows you for at least two (2) years, if you cannot find a guarantor that satisfies that requirement you must complete form PPTC 132 (Statutory Declaration in Lieu of Guarantor). You must obtain Form PPTC 132 which is available from any passport office or by telephone..

You also need to provide documentation to support your identity which must include your name, sex, date of birth, signature and photo. One (1) or more documents, when combined, may be used to fulfill the five (5) criteria stated above. All documents submitted to support your identity must be valid and must be issued by a federal, provincial or territorial authority. It is our advise that you do not send the original document(s) by certified copies of document(s). For certified true copies of document(s) you must produce the original document(s).

This information may change from time to time. For updated information please click the next button :

How to start your

Notary public service.

Please fill our form or send us an email with your case/document and contact information.

[email protected]

Our Lawyers will be happy to take a look of your case and will be in touch with you

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Claim refugee status from in Canada: How to apply

• 1. About the process
• 2. Who can apply
• 3. How to apply
• 4. After you apply
• Replace your refugee protection claimant document
• Optional: Work and study permits
• Protect yourself from fraud

Before you make a refugee claim

Answer a few questions to see if you can make a refugee claim.

Are you in Canada right now?

Have you checked if you’re eligible to make a refugee claim?

To make a refugee claim, you must

• meet the eligibility requirements
• be in Canada right now

If you make a claim and you’re not eligible or you’re not in Canada right now, we will refuse your application.

You’re outside Canada

You can’t submit a refugee claim from outside Canada.

Check your eligibility

Before you make a claim, make sure you meet the eligibility requirements .

On this page

How to make a refugee claim, get a work or study permit while waiting for a decision on your refugee claim.

You must be in Canada to make your refugee claim. You can make your claim in 1 of 2 ways:

• in person (when you arrive in Canada at a port of entry )
• online (when you’re already in Canada )

The information you share in your claim will help us understand

• your background
• your family
• why you want to make a refugee claim

When you make your claim, you can request a work permit at the same time.

To find out how to make your refugee claim, answer some questions about your situation.

How will you make your refugee claim?

• In person (when you arrive in Canada at a port of entry)
• Online (you’re already in Canada)

Where did you start your claim?

• With the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA), when I arrived in Canada

Make your claim when you arrive in Canada

You can make a claim for refugee protection at any port of entry when you arrive in Canada. This means an airport, seaport or land border.

A Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) officer will ask you to complete the required application forms when you arrive. Normally, you’ll complete the forms at the port of entry.

While at the port of entry, the officer will also

• ask you questions about your situation
• collect your documentation and proof of identity
• take your fingerprints and photo ( biometrics )

If the officer decides your refugee claim is eligible

The officer will give you

• a refugee protection claimant document (RPCD) , which will help you get access to the Interim Federal Health Program and other services in Canada
• a  confirmation of referral  letter, which confirms your claim has been referred to the Immigration and Refugee Board of Canada (IRB)
• a  basis of claim  form
• instructions about completing your medical exam

You have 15 calendar days to complete the basis of claim form and submit it to the IRB’s Refugee Protection Division office listed on your confirmation of referral letter.

If the officer tells you to come back for an interview

• an information pamphlet
• an acknowledgement of claim letter (which will help you get access to the Interim Federal Health Program and other services in Canada )

You may have to return to the port of entry or go to an inland office for your interview.

The officer may also tell you to submit your refugee claim online . If you’re told to complete your claim online, the officer will give you instructions.

To complete your claim, you’ll need your

• application number
• date of birth

You'll find these on your

• acknowledgement of claim letter
• refugee protection claimant document

If you need help completing your claim online, use the application guide .

Submit your claim online from in Canada

If you’re already in Canada:

• Choose “Yes” when you’re asked if you want to apply for more than 1 person.
• You’ll complete separate claims in the portal for each family member.
• When you’re done the claims, submit them all together.
• numbers (0-9)
• the 26 letters of the Roman alphabet (a-z and A-Z)
• some accents and special characters
• hyphens, periods and apostrophes

Before you start

Before starting your claim, make sure you have a scanner or camera ready to create electronic copies of your documents.

For each person making a claim (yourself and your family), you’ll

• answer questions in the online application
• fill out and upload a copy of the Immigration and Refugee Board of Canada’s basis of claim form
• provide a copy of the passport (in some cases, you may not be asked for this)

You’ll also be able to upload copies of other documents to support your claim.

Depending on your situation, you can

• submit your own refugee claim online
• get your representative to help you

Submit your claim in the IRCC portal

Follow these steps to submit your claim.

1. Get an invitation code

If it’s your first time using the IRCC portal, you need an invitation code to create an account. We’ll ask for your email and send you a code that you can use to sign up.

2. Sign up for a portal account

After we send you your invitation code, use it to create your portal account.

3. Complete the online form

Once you sign in, choose “Make a refugee claim”.

Answer all the questions in the form. When you’re done, you’ll get a list of documents to upload. If your family members are making claims with you, make a separate claim for each of them (and submit them all together).

From the day you start your claim, you’ll have 90 days to complete and submit it.

• Sign in to the IRCC Portal

Get an invite code to create an account

Already have an invite code? Create your IRCC portal account

If you can’t submit your claim online

You may be able to submit your claim another way. Find out what to do if  you can’t submit your claim online .

If you’re working with a representative

A representative can either:

• help you complete your claim so you can submit it yourself, or
• submit a claim for you

In this case,  you must type your name and submit the refugee claim yourself.

To do this, you will

• create your own account
• complete the questionnaire
• upload all documents, including a signed  Use of a Representative form (PDF, 648.31 KB)
• electronically sign and submit your own claim

In this scenario, your representative can only

• provide advice
• help you prepare documents
• help you use the portal (in person, by phone or online using screen-sharing technology)

In this case,  your authorized representative  must apply via the IRCC Portal for authorized paid representatives and submit the claim on your behalf, using their own account.

Before your representative creates a portal account

Before your representative can create an account, you must both sign a Use of a Representative form (PDF, 648.31 KB) .

This document authorizes your representative to make a claim on your behalf. Find out why you need this document signed .

If you’re a representative

Find out how you can create an account and submit applications on behalf of your clients .

Submitting the claim

To submit a claim online on your behalf, your representative must

• create their own account
• complete all forms
• download the filled-out copy of your application and have you or the head of family sign and attest it
• once signed, upload the file and submit the completed application

You started a claim with the CBSA

If you started a claim when you arrived in Canada, the CBSA officer may have

• scheduled your interview to a later date, or
• told you to complete your claim online

If your interview was scheduled to a later date

Do not miss your interview. This is when we decide if your claim is eligible.

Find out more about what happens after you make a claim at the port of entry.

If you were told to complete your claim online

Follow the instructions the CBSA officer gave you. You’ll continue and submit your refugee claim through the IRCC Portal .

As of June 24, 2023, we deleted any claim you started in the Canadian Refugee Protection Portal but didn’t submit. If we deleted your claim, you have to start over using the  IRCC Portal .

Before you continue your claim

Before you continue your claim, make sure you have a scanner or camera ready to create electronic copies of your documents.

To complete your claim online, you’ll need your

You’ll find these on your

• acknowledgement of claim letter or
• be able to upload copies of other documents to support your claim

Your portal account

If you don’t already have one, you need an account to submit a claim online. You can also use your account to check the status of your claim.

Once you sign in, choose “Make a refugee claim.”

You started a claim online

You need to sign in to your account in the IRCC portal to complete and submit your claim. You have 90 days from when you started your claim to submit it.

Sign in to your account

If you started a claim online using the Canadian Refugee Protection Portal (CRPP)

As of January 13, 2023, we deleted any claim you started in the CRPP but didn’t submit. If we deleted your claim, you have to start over using the IRCC Portal .

To avoid delays receiving your permit, make sure we always have your current address. You can change your address online .

Get a work permit

If you make your claim at a port of entry.

You can request to apply for a work permit while you’re with the border services officer. You won’t get your work permit while at the port of entry. If you’re eligible for one, you’ll receive it after you complete your medical exam.

If you submit your refugee claim online

You can request a work permit in your online application. We’ll only issue you a work permit if

• we decide your claim is eligible to be referred to the IRB and
• you complete your medical exam

Learn more about who is eligible and how to apply for a work permit .

Get a study permit

You can’t request to apply for a study permit when you submit your refugee claim. You must apply for a study permit separately. Find out who is eligible and how to apply for a study permit .

Why do I need a declaration form and a Use of a Representative form?

Each form has a different purpose, so you need to submit both.

The declaration form lets a representative create an account in the Canadian Refugee Protection Portal for your claim. It also lets them complete your claim in the portal and sign it using their name.

The Use of a Representative form lets you appoint a representative (paid or unpaid) to work with us and the CBSA on your behalf.

Accents and special characters

You can use these accents and special characters in the IRCC portal:

• é, à, è, ù, â, ê, î, ô, û, ë, ï, ö, ü, æ, ç, œ
• É, À, È, Ù, Â, Ê, Î, Ô, Û, Ë, Ï, Ö, Ü, Æ, Ç, Œ
• ~ ! @ # $ % ^ & * ( ) _ + { } : < > ? ` = [ ] \ ; , /

Why do I need a Use of a Representative form?

The  Use of a Representative form  lets you appoint a representative (paid or unpaid) to work with us and the CBSA on your behalf.

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The Ultimate Guide to Canadian Passport Guarantor

Under Canadian rules, you need a guarantor for your Canadian passport or other travel documents. If you are not sure when you need a passport guarantor, you can find out by patiently reading this article and getting the ultimate guide to Canadian passport guarantors.

What is a passport guarantor? 

A guarantor is a person who can verify your identity and confirm the true information that was stated about you in the document. This means that a guarantor can guarantee your identity.

When do you need a passport guarantor?

If you are applying for a passport for the first time, you will need a sponsor to ensure that you are a Canadian citizen. And the government will contact your guarantor during the passport application review. Usually, if you want to renew a passport, you don’t need a guarantor. However, you are required to have a passport guarantor when you are not eligible to renew your passport.

These are the situations where you are not eligible to apply for a renewal:

• If your child’s passport expires and they are over 16, they must apply for an adult passport.
• If you want to change your name, place of birth, date of birth, or gender on the new passport.

Who can be a guarantor for Canadian passport?

To be a qualified and acceptable guarantor, you must meet the specific requirements set by the government. Usually, if the guarantor has complied with the requirements, it can be anyone, a family member, a friend or a household. However, you should be aware that the requirements of a guarantor will change depending on the type of passport, such as a regular passport submitted inside or outside Canada, a military personnel who applying for a regular passport, a certificate of identity or a refugee travel document.

Guarantor requirements for regular passport submitted in Canada

When submitting a regular passport application in Canada either online or by visiting the Service Canada Center, you need to follow different requirements.

• A guarantor must have known you for at least 2 years.
• A guarantor must be available when officials need to contact them.
• A guarantor must be a Canadian citizen 18 years of age or older.
• A guarantor must provide the required information in their passport.
• A guarantor must have a valid 5-year or 10-year Canadian passport.

Guarantor requirements for regular passport submitted outside Canada

When you apply for a passport outside Canada, your guarantor can be anyone who meets the above sponsor requirements. In addition, you can look for occupation-based guarantors as long as the person meets the following requirements.

They are registered or licensed with the appropriate authority to practice their profession. They are currently working in one of the following professions:

• veterinarian
• police officer
• notary public
• medical doctor
• head of university or college
• Signing office of a bank or trust company

If your occupation-based guarantor retired, you can use them if your guarantor’s name is still on the professional association list.

Guarantor requirements for military personnel applying for regular passport

If you’re Regular Force personnel, Regular Military Force officers can be your guarantor if they have known you personally for over 2 years. These officers may be your guarantors.

• NDHQ directors
• base commanders
• commanding officers
• NDHQ career managers
• NDHQ directors general
• Personal administrative officers

They won’t write down how many years they have known you, but they must write, “through service records that I have verified.”

Guarantor requirements when applying for an identity certificate or refugee travel document

If you’re applying for a certificate of identity or refugee travel document, your guarantor must meet the following requirements:

• Your guarantor must live in Canada now.
• Your guarantor will be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident of Canada .
• Your guarantor must be available during the verification process.
• Your guarantor has personally known you for more than 6 months.
• Your guarantor must be an occupation-based person who has been registered/licensed with the appropriate local authority to practise their profession, such as mayor, pharmacist, postmaster and optometrist , etc.

📣 Read Also: How to Apply for Canadian Citizenship

Who can not be a Canadian passport guarantor?

You cannot act as a guarantor if you do not meet the above requirements. For example, you have not known the person for more than 2 years. In addition, parents or legal guardians who apply for passports on behalf of a child are not allowed to be guarantors.

What if I can’t find a guarantor?

Unfortunately, you can’t find anyone who is eligible to be your guarantor. Don’t panic, you can apply for your passport by completing the Statutory Declaration in Lieu of Guarantor form . You must find someone who has the authority to administer an oath and sign the form.

• This person doesn’t need to know you personally.
• If in Canada, it can be a notary public, justice of the peace, or commissioner of oaths.
• If outside Canada, this may be a Canadian or British diplomatic or consular representative and qualified local official such as a civil servant or member of Parliament.

What must the passport guarantors do?

When you need to complete the guarantor section of the application form, such as the guarantor’s name, most of the time it can be done by you or your guarantor. However, your guarantor must be responsible for the following 4 areas.

• Signature of the Guarantor
• The number of years that you’ve known the applicant

image resource: Services aux Autochtones Canada / Indigenous Services Canada

In addition, your guarantor must do the following.

• They need to write on the back of one passport photo “I certify this to be a true likeness of (your name or your child’s name)”
• They must write their names on the back of the same photo.
• If this is for an adult application, the guarantor must sign and date the photocopies of each supporting identification document that you submit. But if you submit original documents, there is no need to sign every document.

Do I need to pay a guarantor?

No, you don’t need to pay a guarantor. A guarantor can’t charge a fee for helping you apply for a passport. In addition, you also can’t help the guarantor do any of the tasks listed above. 

FAQ about Passport Guarantor

• Can a family member be a guarantor for a Canadian passport?

Yes, a family member or someone else who knows you personally can be a Canadian passport guarantor. They must meet the specific requirements mentioned above.

• Does my guarantor need to be Canadian?

Yes, one of the requirements for a Canadian passport guarantor is to be a Canadian citizen 18 years of age or older.

• Can a parent be a guarantor for canadian passport?

You cannot act as a guarantor on the child’s Canadian passport application if you are the parent or legal guardian who is applying on behalf of the child.

All in all, when you apply for a Canadian passport, a guarantor is an important person to verify your identity. Besides that, there are other vital things you need to pay attention to, such as the passport photo. Because your guarantor needs to sign the back of the photo. If you take a photo at home, you can upload it to passport photo editor to make a qualifed passport photo.

By Dolores Xiao

I am a content creator and marketer with over 5 years of professional writing experience. I hold a bachelor's degree in communications and have a natural curiosity about technology, as evidenced by my technology blog. As an avid traveler, I draw upon adventures in over 10 countries to inject unique cultural perspectives into my articles and social media campaigns. I thrive on developing engaging content that informs and inspires audiences.

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Travel Documents: Don’t Leave Home Without Them!

A travel document is an important document for refugees or newcomers to Canada because everyone wants or needs to travel. Some newcomers like to travel to their home countries to see their families and friends.  In addition, newcomers might need to travel to different countries in emergency situations.  If a newcomer doesn’t have his/her country’s passport, getting a travel document could be easier than getting his/her country’s passport.  Another benefit of having a travel document is that it may be possible to travel to some countries without getting a visa, which is usually quite expensive.  This means that every newcomer needs to know what a travel document is, and how to get one.

The definition of a travel document is an identity document similar to a passport, but which does not confer proof of citizenship from the issuing country.  Refugee travel documents are issued to people in Canada with protected-person status, including Convention refugees and persons in need of protection.  Those who are eligible to apply for a travel document can include:

• Convention refugees
• Protected persons
• Stateless persons
• Permanent residents of less than 3 years who can’t get a passport from their home country for a valid reason

If you are eligible for a travel document, you can take these steps:

• Complete the application form and sign each page of the application.  You can get the application online, but this application is different for children and adults.  Also, if you don’t know how to complete this application, Hamilton has many organizations and centres that can help you (for example, the YMCA or the Immigrant Working Centre).
• Several documents must be included with your application.  A complete list is available at http://www.cic.gc.ca
• Find a guarantor and two references.  You will need a guarantor to sign your application and you need to include two references.  Your references and guarantor must have known you for at least six months.  You cannot use a family member or your guarantor as a reference.
• Submit your application and pay your fees.  You have to send your application to this address:

Government of Canada Certificate of Identity Section Passport Program Gatineau, QCK1A 1L2

To pay your fees, when you are applying by mail you can pay by:

Visa, MasterCard, American Express credit card (prepaid cards are accepted), certified cheque or money order (postal or bank) in Canadian funds, made payable to “Receiver General for Canada”.

The exact fee must be specified.

For adults, the cost is $120 and $57 for each child.

Finally, if you applied by mail, the travel document and any original documentation you submitted will be returned to you by mail in two or three weeks and may be in two separate packages.If you applied in person and paid for a pickup service, the pickup date will be indicated on your receipt.If you need more information or details, you can visit http://www.cic.gc.ca

Soran Kareem

Source: http://www.cic.gc.ca

Soran Kareem arrived in Montreal, Canada in 2015. After 8 months he decided to move to Hamilton, Ontario. In April 2016, Soran started taking English classes at Mohawk College. He is currently taking LINC level 5. Soran is a lawyer from Kurdistan. His goal is to acquire the English required to study a Master in Law. He loves writing and being involved in the community.

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Canadian Legal FAQs

Published by the Centre for Public Legal Education Alberta

Supporting Documents, Guarantors and References

Supporting documents, what documents do i have to provide to get my first passport or a new passport if i cannot renew my old one.

You will need:

• completed and signed application form
• proof of Canadian citizenship (original birth certificate or citizenship certificate)
• originals of any valid or expired Canadian passport or other travel document
• original or copy of your ID (if you use a photocopy, copy both sides of your ID and have your guarantor sign and date the photocopy)
• 2 identical passport photos (with photographer’s name and address, date photos were taken, and guarantor’s signature on the back)
• passport fee (if applying by mail, fill out payment information)
• two references

Read the Government of Canada’s website for complete information.

Last Reviewed: June 2023

What documents do I have to provide to renew my passport?

• completed and signed renewal application form
• information about your last passport (date it was issued, date it expired, passport number)
• your most recent passport, if it’s still valid
• 2 identical passport photos (with photographer’s name and address, and date photos were taken on the back)

You do not need a guarantor for a passport renewal.

What are the rules for passport photos?

You must submit two identical and unaltered photos. Most camera shops or photography studios can help you with this.

There are very specific requirements for your photos. Your passport will be delayed if your photos do not meet these requirements. Read the Government of Canada’s website to learn more.

Do I need to provide my original birth certificate or citizenship certificate?

Yes. If you are getting your first passport or you cannot renew your existing passport, you will need to provide proof of your Canadian citizenship. You must provide the original document, not a photocopy.

If you were born in Canada, you can provide one of:

• birth certificate (long or short form issued by the province or territory where you were born)
• Canadian citizenship certificate

If you were born outside of Canada, you can provide one of:

• certificate of naturalization
• certificate of registration of birth abroad
• certificate of retention of Canadian citizenship

Note, the Government of Canada will only accept laminated proof of citizenship documents if the issuing authority laminated it. They will not accept the document if you laminated it yourself.

If you apply in person, the officer will verify your document and give it back to you right away. If you apply by mail, you must include the document with your application, and the Government of Canada will mail it back to you.

You do not need to provide proof of Canadian citizenship if you are renewing your passport.

What if I do not have my birth certificate?

You can get a new birth certificate from the government in the province or territory where you were born. Find contact info for your birth province’s vital statistics office on the Government of Canada’s website .

It can take time to get a new birth certificate. Make sure you apply right away if you will be traveling soon.

You do not need to provide your birth certificate if you are renewing your passport.

Can I submit my old passport as proof of Canadian citizenship instead of a birth certificate?

No. An expired Canadian passport is not proof of citizenship. A Canadian passport is an official travel document, not proof of citizenship.

Will the Government of Canada return my documents to me?

Yes. The Government of Canada will always return your original documents to you.

Guarantors and References

What is a guarantor who can be a guarantor.

A guarantor is a person who “guarantees” your identity. This person must have known you for at least 2 years and well enough to confirm the information in your application is true.

There are specific requirements for guarantors, including if you are applying from inside or outside Canada, are military personnel, or are applying for a certificate of identify or refugee travel document.

Learn more from the Government of Canada’s website .

What if I cannot find a guarantor?

If you cannot find anyone who is eligible to be your guarantor, you must complete the Statutory Declaration in Lieu of Guarantor form . You must swear or affirm this form in front of someone who has authority to administer an oath wherever you are, such as a notary public, justice of the peace or commissioner of oaths.

To get a copy of this form:

• if you are in Canada, go to the nearest passport service location or contact the Passport Program
• if you are in the United States, go the nearest Canadian government office or contact the Passport Program
• if you are outside Canada or the United States, contact the nearest Canadian government office

Do I have to pay a guarantor?

No. A guarantor is not allowed to charge a fee for helping with your passport application.

What is a reference?

You need 2 references to apply for or renew a passport.

A reference must meet certain requirements, including:

• be 18 years or older
• have known you for at least 2 years
• agree to you listing their name and contact info in your application

Some people cannot be your reference, including your guarantor and family members.

Do not use a person as a reference if they are travelling outside the country or will be hard to contact while the Government of Canada is processing your passport application. If the government cannot contact your reference, this may delay you getting your passport.

Learn more on the Government of Canada’s website .

More Resources

• More Travel FAQs
• Canadian passports and other travel documents (Government of Canada)

• Alberta FAQs
• National FAQs

Canadian Legal FAQs is a website of the Centre for Public Legal Education .

This website provides general legal information only. It does not provide legal or professional advice.

See Disclaimer for more information. Copyright Legal Resource Centre of Alberta.