👶 Apply for Child Passport Canada: A Step-by-Step Guide for Parents in 2025

If you’re a parent preparing your child for international travel, applying for a Canadian child passport is an essential step. Whether it’s for a vacation, school trip, or family visit abroad, knowing how to apply correctly can help avoid delays or rejections.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through:

• Who needs to apply for a Canadian child passport
• How to fill out the correct form (PPTC 057)
• Required documents and photos
• Where to submit the application
• Processing times and fees
• And much more!

Let’s dive into everything you need to know about how to apply for child passport Canada.

📄 What Is a Canadian Child Passport?

A Canadian child passport is issued to minors under the age of 16 years old and is valid for five years. It serves as official proof of identity and citizenship for international air travel.

Unlike adult passports, which can often be renewed by mail, all child passport applications in Canada must be submitted in person at a Service Canada office.

Many parents searching online ask “how long is a child passport valid Canada?” or “Do children need a passport to travel outside Canada?”, showing strong interest in understanding the basics before submitting their file.

✍️ Which Form to Use When Applying for a Child Passport

To apply for a child passport Canada, use Form PPTC 057 – Application for a Passport for a Child Under 16 Years of Age.

This form is required for:

• First-time child passports
• Replacing lost, stolen, or damaged documents
• Updating information like name or photo

Parents often look up “which form to use for a child passport Canada” or “PPTC 057 instructions,” especially when applying for the first time.

📎 Supporting Documents Needed for Child Passport Applications

When you go to apply, make sure you have all the necessary documents ready:

For the Child:

• Original or certified copy of birth certificate
• Certificate of Canadian Citizenship (if applicable)
• Proof of parental relationship (birth certificate or adoption papers)

For the Parent(s):

• Government-issued photo ID (driver’s license, PR card, or current passport)
• If only one parent is present, bring custody documents or a signed consent

Applicants frequently search “required documents for child passport Canada” or “what do I need to apply for my child’s passport?” especially when unsure what qualifies as acceptable proof.

🖼️ Photo Requirements for Child Passports

Photos are one of the most common reasons for rejection, even during child passport applications in Canada.

Key requirements include:

• Taken within the last 6 months
• Show full face, eyes open, no expression
• Plain white or light-colored background
• Must measure 50 mm x 70 mm

People often look up “passport photo requirements for child Canada” or “how to take child passport photo Canada,” especially when applying without professional help.

💰 Fees for Applying for a Child Passport Canada

As of 2025, the cost to apply for a child’s passport in Canada is CAD 100 for standard processing.

Additional costs may apply if you select:

• Urgent service (+ CAD 120) for emergency travel
• Courier return (+ $15–CAD 30) for faster delivery

Frequent searches include “how much is a child passport Canada?” and “fee for child passport Canada,” especially among budget-conscious parents.

📍 Where to Submit Your Child’s Passport Application

You cannot mail a child passport application Canada directly to IRCC—you must submit it in person at a Service Canada center or select post offices offering passport services (though most require Service Canada for minors).

Steps:

1. Locate the nearest passport office using IRCC’s office finder
2. Book an appointment if possible
3. Arrive early with all required documents

Queries like “where to apply for child passport Canada” or “submitting child passport application Service Canada” show how important it is to find the right location.

⏱️ How Long Does It Take to Get a Child’s Passport in Canada?

Processing times vary based on where and how you apply.

As of 2025:

• Standard processing: 10–20 business days
• Urgent/expedited service: 1–2 business days (with additional fee)

Delays often occur due to incomplete forms or incorrect photos.

Parents frequently ask “how long does child passport take Canada?” or “processing time for child passport Canada,” especially around school trips or summer vacations.

✅ How to Fill Out the Child Passport Application Form

Use these tips when completing Form PPTC 057 – Application for a Passport for a Child Under 16 Years of Age :

1. Download the form from the IRCC website
2. Print clearly—do not write directly on the PDF
3. Fill out all sections legibly in black ink
4. Ensure the child’s name matches the birth certificate exactly
5. Include both parents’ names and contact information
6. Sign where required—electronic signatures are not accepted

Common searches include “how to fill out child passport form Canada” or “passport application for a minor Canada instructions,” especially among first-time applicants.

👨‍👩‍👧 Do Both Parents Need to Be Present for a Child Passport Canada?

While both parents do not always have to be present, IRCC requires written consent from both guardians unless there is sole custody.

You may need to provide:

• A signed letter of consent from the non-applying parent
• Court order or adoption papers showing legal custody
• Death certificate or other proof if one parent is unavailable

Frequently searched questions include “can one parent apply for a child’s passport Canada?” and “child passport Canada no consent from second parent.”

🤝 Can You Apply for a Child Passport Without the Other Parent?

Yes—but only if you can prove sole custody or the other parent is unavailable due to death, incarceration, or abandonment.

Acceptable documents include:

• Court orders
• Custody agreements
• Death certificates
• Police reports or missing parent affidavits

These situations explain why people search for terms like “apply for child passport without father Canada” or “single parent child passport Canada.”

🧾 Lost, Stolen, or Damaged Child Passports

If your child’s passport was lost, stolen, or damaged, you’ll need to apply again using Form PPTC 057.

Include:

• A police report (for stolen passports)
• Explanation of loss or damage
• Updated identification and photos

Searches like “lost child passport Canada replacement” or “replace stolen passport for minor Canada” are common among families returning from unexpected trips.

🌐 Does a Minor Need a Passport to Travel Within North America?

Yes—a Canadian child passport is required for all international air travel, including trips to:

• The United States
• Mexico
• Europe
• Asia

For land or sea travel between Canada and the U.S., a birth certificate and government ID may suffice, but a passport is still recommended for ease of travel.

Travelers often ask “does my child need a passport to go to the USA Canada?” or “can a minor travel without a passport Canada?”

🛃 How to Prove Parental Consent for Child Passport Canada

To prevent child abduction risks and ensure both parents agree to international travel, IRCC requires parental consent unless sole custody applies.

Ways to prove consent:

• Both parents appear in person
• One parent submits a notarized letter of authorization
• Provide a court order or custody agreement

Queries like “proof of parental consent for child passport Canada” or “child passport Canada custody documents” reflect real-life concerns many families face.

🧑‍🤝‍🧑 Applying for a Child Passport After Adoption

If your child was adopted, you can still apply for a Canadian child passport, but you must provide:

• Official adoption papers
• Birth certificate (if available)
• Certificate of Canadian Citizenship (if applicable)

People often look up “passport application for adopted child Canada” or “child passport after international adoption Canada,” especially during the final stages of adoption.

🧩 What If You Don’t Have a Birth Certificate for Your Child?

If your child’s birth certificate is missing or damaged, you may still be able to apply for a child passport Canada by providing alternative documentation such as:

• Hospital birth records
• School enrollment records
• Baptismal certificates
• Parental statements or IDs

These scenarios lead to frequent searches like “apply for child passport Canada without birth certificate” or “how to prove citizenship for child passport Canada.”

🕒 Final Thoughts: Planning Makes All the Difference

Applying for a child passport Canada might seem daunting at first, but with the right documents and preparation, the process can be smooth and stress-free.

From understanding which form to use to knowing what documents are needed and avoiding common mistakes, this guide has covered the essentials to help you navigate the world of Canadian child passports confidently.

With careful planning and accurate submission, your child will be ready to explore the world safely and legally.