Apply for a Canadian Passport for a Newborn: A Step-by-Step Guide for New Parents

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.

Why Your Newborn Needs a Canadian Passport

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.

Eligibility: Who Can Apply?

To apply for a Canadian passport for a newborn, the child must be a Canadian citizen. This typically means:

1. Born in Canada: Children born within Canada are automatically Canadian citizens.
2. Born Abroad to a Canadian Parent: Children born outside Canada to at least one Canadian citizen parent (who was born in Canada or naturalized) are generally Canadian citizens by descent.

Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for a Canadian Passport for a Newborn

Follow these steps for a smooth newborn passport Canada application process:

Step 1: Confirm Canadian Citizenship (Especially for Babies Born Abroad)

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.

Step 2: Obtain the Correct Application Form

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.

Step 3: Gather All Required Documents

This is a critical step for your application for a Canadian passport for a newborn. You will need:

• Proof of Canadian Citizenship:
  • For babies born in Canada: The child’s original long-form birth certificate (the one that includes parental information).
  • For babies born abroad: The child’s original Canadian Citizenship Certificate.
• Proof of Parentage: The child’s original birth certificate clearly shows the names of the parents.
• Parental Identification: Original valid government-issued identification for both parents (or the sole parent/guardian). Examples include a passport, driver’s license, or permanent resident card.
• Two Identical Passport Photos: These photos have very specific requirements for infants:
  • Taken by a professional photographer.
  • The baby’s head must be centered and squared to the camera.
  • Neutral expression, with no smiling or crying.
  • Eyes are open and visible.
  • No shadows on the face or background.
  • No pacifiers, hats, or head coverings (unless for religious or medical reasons).
  • You can lay the baby on a plain white blanket for the photo.
• Application Fee: Check the current fee on the official government website.

Step 4: Complete the Application Form Accurately

Fill out the application for a Canadian passport for your child completely and accurately. Pay special attention to:

• Section 1 (Personal Information): Ensure all details match the child’s birth certificate.
• Section 2 (Parental Information): Provide details for both parents.
• Section 4 (Declaration of Applicant): This must be signed by one of the parents or the legal guardian.
• Section 5 (Declaration of Guarantor): Crucial for verifying the application.

Step 5: Find a Suitable Guarantor

A guarantor is a critical component when you apply for a Canadian passport for an infant. They must:

• Be a Canadian citizen.
• Be 18 years of age or older.
• Have known the parent(s) applying on behalf of the child for at least two years.
• Be accessible to Passport Canada if they need to be contacted.
• Hold a valid Canadian passport (or have held one within the last 5 years).
• Be employed in a specific profession (e.g., doctor, lawyer, teacher, police officer, accountant, dentist, engineer).

The guarantor will sign and date:

• Section 5 of the application form.
• The back of one of the child’s passport photos with the statement “I certify this to be a true likeness of (child’s name)” and their signature.

Step 6: Submit Your Application

Once all documents are gathered, the form is completed, and photos are signed, you can submit the newborn Canadian passport application.

• In Canada, you can submit it in person at a Service Canada Centre or by mail. For quicker processing, an in-person application at a passport office is often recommended.
• Abroad: If you are overseas (e.g., applying for a Canadian passport child abroad in a country like Cyprus), you will apply to the nearest Canadian embassy or consulate. Processing times may vary significantly.

Important Tips for a Smooth Application Process

• Start Early: Don’t wait until the last minute, especially if you have travel plans. Processing times can vary.
• Double-Check Everything: Review all forms, signatures, and documents for accuracy. Any error can cause significant delays.
• Follow Photo Specifications Precisely: Infant photos are challenging, but strict adherence to guidelines is essential.
• Keep Copies: Make photocopies of all documents submitted for your records.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: How long does it take to apply for a Canadian passport for a newborn?

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.

Q2: Can I apply for a Canadian passport for my baby online?

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.

Q3: What documents do I need for a newborn passport Canada application?

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.

Q4: What if my baby were born abroad?

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.

Q5: Do both parents need to sign the application for a Canadian passport for a child?

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.

Q6: What are the photo requirements for a newborn passport?

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!