📝 First-Time Passport Canada: How to Apply in 2025

If you’re applying for your first-time passport Canada, whether as an adult or for a child, it’s important to understand the process before heading to a Service Canada office or passport service point.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through:

• What a first-time Canadian passport application involves
• The correct form to use (PPTC 056)
• Required documents and photos
• Where to apply and what it costs
• Processing times and common mistakes
• And much more!

Let’s dive into everything you need to know about getting your first Canadian passport.

🔑 What Is a First-Time Passport Canada?

A first-time passport Canada refers to the process of applying for your initial Canadian passport, which serves as official proof of identity and citizenship for international travel.

Unlike renewals, first-time applications must be submitted in person at a Service Canada center or authorized acceptance agent.

Many people searching online ask “can I apply for my first Canadian passport by mail?” or “do I need to go to an office for first-time passport Canada?” showing strong interest in understanding submission rules.

✍️ Which Form to Use for First-Time Passport Application Canada

To apply for a first-time Canadian passport, use Form PPTC 056 – Application for a Passport (Adults 16 Years of Age or Older).

For minors under 16, use Form PPTC 057 – Application for a Passport for a Child Under 16 Years of Age.

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📎 Documents Needed for First-Time Passport Canada

When submitting your first-time passport application Canada, make sure to include:

For All Applicants:

• Completed passport application form
• Proof of Canadian citizenship (birth certificate, Certificate of Citizenship)
• Valid government-issued photo ID (driver’s license, PR card, or expired passport)
• Two identical passport-style photos
• Payment receipt for applicable fees

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🖼️ Passport Photo Requirements for First-Time Applications

Photos are one of the most common reasons for rejection, even during first-time passport applications Canada.

Key requirements include:

• Taken within the last 6 months
• Full face, eyes open, no expression
• Plain white or light-colored background
• Size: 50 mm x 70 mm

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💰 Fees for First-Time Passport Canada

As of 2025, the cost for a first-time Canadian passport depends on the type of service selected.

Some applicants also choose courier return services for faster delivery after processing.

Frequent searches include “cost of first-time Canadian passport?” and “how much is a first-time passport Canada?”, especially among budget-conscious travelers.

📍 Where to Submit Your First-Time Passport Application

You cannot mail your first-time passport application Canada directly to IRCC—you must submit it at a Service Canada center or through a participating post office (for renewal cases only).

For first-time applications, always visit a Service Canada office that offers full passport services.

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⏱️ How Long Does It Take to Get a First-Time Canadian Passport?

Processing times vary based on where and how you apply.

As of 2025:

• Standard in-person submission: 10–20 business days
• Urgent/expedited service: 1–2 business days

Delays may occur if additional verification is required due to missing or incorrect documents.

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🧾 Steps to Apply for a First-Time Canadian Passport

Here’s how to apply for a first-time Canadian passport correctly:

1. Download Form PPTC 056 from IRCC’s official website.
2. Fill out all sections legibly in black ink.
3. Attach two acceptable passport-style photos.
4. Bring original proof of citizenship and ID to a Service Canada office.
5. Pay the applicable fee and provide return address details.
6. Wait for your passport to be processed and mailed back.

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👨‍👩‍👧 Can You Apply for a Minor’s First-Time Passport?

Yes—all minor passport applications in Canada are considered first-time applications and must be submitted in person.

Bring:

• Birth certificate or adoption papers
• Parental ID and signed consent from both parents, unless sole custody applies
• Two identical passport-style photos
• Completed PPTC 057 form

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🤝 Do You Need Both Parents for a Child’s First-Time Passport?

For children under 16, both parents typically need to provide consent unless there is a court order or custody agreement indicating sole legal guardianship.

You may need to submit:

• Notarized consent letter from the non-applying parent
• Court order granting sole custody
• Death certificate (if one parent is deceased)

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🧩 What If You Don’t Have a Birth Certificate for a First-Time Passport Canada?

If you were born in Canada but don’t have a birth certificate, you may still qualify for a first-time Canadian passport by providing alternative records such as:

• Hospital birth records
• Baptismal certificates
• School enrollment documents
• Parental identification and statements

These situations lead to frequent searches like “first-time passport Canada without birth certificate” or “how to prove Canadian citizenship if born in Canada but no documents?”

🚫 Common Mistakes That Delay First-Time Passport Applications

Even small errors can lead to delays or refusals. Some of the most frequent issues include:

• Blurry or outdated passport photos
• Incomplete or illegible handwriting
• Missing or expired documents
• Not signing the form properly
• Incorrect payment or currency

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🌐 Can Permanent Residents Apply for a First-Time Canadian Passport?

No—a first-time Canadian passport is only available to Canadian citizens.

Permanent residents are not eligible to apply for a Canadian passport and should instead:

• Carry their permanent resident card (PR card)
• Use a valid travel document when returning from international trips

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🧑‍🤝‍🧑 Lost or Stolen Passports and First-Time Rules

If your Canadian passport was lost or stolen, you must apply again using Form PPTC 056 and explain the situation clearly.

You may need to provide:

• Police report (for stolen passports)
• Written explanation of loss
• Updated identification and citizenship proof

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🛑 Can You Mail In a First-Time Passport Application?

No—mail-in passport applications are only accepted for renewals, not for first-time passport Canada submissions.

All first-time passport applications require in-person submission to verify identity and citizenship.

This leads to frequent questions like “can I mail my first-time passport application Canada?” or “first-time passport by mail Canada,” especially among those trying to avoid office visits.

🧒 First-Time Passport Canada for Adults Who Never Traveled Abroad

Many adult Canadians have never needed a passport until now, whether for vacation, work, or family reasons.

If you’re applying for the first time as an adult, bring:

• Original proof of citizenship
• Valid government-issued ID
• Two acceptable passport-style photos
• Payment confirmation for applicable fees

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🕒 Final Thoughts: Applying for Your First Canadian Passport Made Easy

Applying for a first-time Canadian passport 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 required and avoiding common mistakes, this guide covers the essentials to help you navigate the world of Canadian passport applications with confidence.

With careful planning and accurate submission, your journey to getting a Canadian passport will be secure, legal, and hassle-free.