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Congratulations on your new arrival! As you navigate the joyous, albeit sometimes overwhelming, world of parenthood, you might already be thinking about future family travel or simply ensuring your little one has all the necessary official documents. One crucial step, especially if you plan to leave the country, is to apply for a Canadian passport for your newborn.
Getting a passport for your infant can seem daunting, but the process is straightforward once you understand the requirements. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about applying for a Canadian passport for your baby, whether they were born in Canada or abroad.
Even the tiniest travelers require their own identification to cross international borders. A Canadian passport serves as definitive proof of your baby’s Canadian citizenship and identity, allowing them to travel safely and return to Canada. Whether you’re planning a vacation, visiting family overseas, or your baby was born abroad and needs to come ‘home’ to Canada, this document is essential.
To apply for a Canadian passport for a newborn, the child must be a Canadian citizen. This typically means:
Follow these steps for a smooth newborn passport Canada application process:
If your baby was born abroad (e.g., applying for a Canadian passport for a child from the USA, applying for a Canadian passport for a child born in the USA), the very first step is to ensure their Canadian citizenship is officially recognized. If they haven’t already, you might need to apply for a Canadian citizenship certificate for them before you can apply for a Canadian passport for a baby born abroad. This certificate serves as proof of citizenship and is a mandatory document for the passport application.
For all children under 16, you will need to use the “Application for Passport for a Child (PPTC 042)” form. You can download this application form for a Canadian passport for a child directly from the Government of Canada’s passport services website. While you can’t apply for a Canadian passport child online entirely, the form itself can be filled out digitally before printing.
This is a critical step for your application for a Canadian passport for a newborn. You will need:
Fill out the application for a Canadian passport for your child completely and accurately. Pay special attention to:
A guarantor is a critical component when you apply for a Canadian passport for an infant. They must:
The guarantor will sign and date:
Once all documents are gathered, the form is completed, and photos are signed, you can submit the newborn Canadian passport application.
A1: Standard processing times vary but typically range from 10-20 business days for in-Canada applications, plus mailing time. Urgent or express services are available for an extra fee. If applying for a Canadian passport for a child born abroad, processing times can be longer due to international mail and specific embassy/consulate procedures.
A2: No, you cannot fully apply for a Canadian passport child online. While you can download and fill out the application form online, the complete application package (including original documents, photos, and signatures) must be submitted in person or by mail.
A3: You need the child’s proof of Canadian citizenship (birth certificate or citizenship certificate), both parents’ valid ID, two identical passport photos, and the completed application form with a guarantor’s signature.
A4: If your baby was born abroad, the first step is to ensure they are recognized as a Canadian citizen. You may need to apply for a Canadian citizenship certificate for them before you can proceed with the newborn Canadian passport application. Once citizenship is confirmed, the process is similar, but you’ll apply for a Canadian passport child abroad at a Canadian embassy or consulate.
A5: Typically, one parent or legal guardian signs “Section 4: Declaration of Applicant.” However, both parents’ information must be included in “Section 2: Parental Information,” and generally, both parents’ valid IDs are required with the application. If one parent is unavailable, specific forms (like a “Consent to Administer Passport Services to a Minor” form) may be required.
A6: Newborn passport photos must be professionally taken, with a neutral expression (mouth closed, eyes open), no shadows, and on a plain white or light-coloured background. No head coverings (unless for religious reasons), and the focus must be entirely on the baby.
Getting your new baby’s first Canadian passport is a significant milestone. By following these guidelines, you can ensure a smooth process and be ready for your family’s next adventure!
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