First Canadian Passport: 5 Steps to Get Yours Fast

Your complete guide to getting your first Canadian passport as a new citizen

On This Page You Will Find:

• Complete document checklist to avoid application delays
• Step-by-step application process with insider timing tips
• Guarantor vs reference requirements (most people get this wrong)
• Emergency passport options when you need it tomorrow
• Real processing times and fees for 2025

Summary:

Congratulations on becoming a Canadian citizen! But here's what nobody tells you: citizenship doesn't automatically come with a passport. You'll need to apply separately, and the process involves specific documents, guarantors, and fees that can trip up first-time applicants. This guide walks you through the exact 5-step process to get your Canadian passport quickly and correctly, including emergency options if you need it within 24 hours. Whether you're planning international travel or just want the convenience of Canada's 7th-ranked passport (with visa-free access to 188 countries), you'll learn everything needed to submit a successful application.

🔑 Key Takeaways:

• You must apply separately for a Canadian passport after citizenship - it's not automatic
• Canadian passport ranks 7th globally with visa-free access to 188 destinations
• Standard processing takes 20 business days, emergency service available next day
• You need 1 guarantor (Canadian citizen with valid passport) and 2 references
• Fees range from $120 (5-year) to $160 (10-year) plus optional express services

Maria stared at her new citizenship certificate, excitement mixing with confusion. After three years of paperwork, interviews, and waiting, she'd finally become a Canadian citizen. But when she called to book a vacation to celebrate, the travel agent asked for her passport number. "I just got my citizenship," Maria explained. "Don't I automatically get a passport now?"

If you're in Maria's shoes, you're not alone. Thousands of new Canadian citizens assume their passport comes with their citizenship certificate. It doesn't. You'll need to apply separately – but don't worry, the process is straightforward once you know the steps.

Why Your Canadian Passport Is Worth the Effort

Let's talk about what you're getting. In 2025, the Canadian passport ranked 7th most powerful globally, offering visa-free travel to 188 destinations. That puts you ahead of countries like Australia (185 destinations) and behind only powerhouses like Germany and Singapore.

But the benefits go beyond vacation planning. While you don't technically need a passport to enter Canada as a citizen, presenting one at the border makes your re-entry smooth and hassle-free. No more explaining your status or dealing with confused border agents – just flash that burgundy booklet and you're home.

Step 1: Gather Your Essential Documents

Here's where most first-time applicants stumble. You need two types of documents, and the requirements are specific.

Proof of Citizenship

For naturalized citizens like Maria, this means your citizenship certificate. You have two options:

Paper Certificate: You'll need the original document for your passport application. Don't send a photocopy – it won't be accepted.

E-Certificate: If you requested the digital version, print it out and include it with your application. Yes, a printout of the e-certificate works for passport applications.

If you were born in Canada, your birth certificate serves as proof of citizenship. For citizens by descent, you'll need your proof of citizenship document.

Proof of Identity

You need one piece of ID that confirms who you are. The good news? You have plenty of options:

• Provincial or territorial driver's license
• Health card from your province or territory
• Foreign passport (if you still have one)
• Military ID
• Government-issued employee ID (federal, provincial, or territorial)

Here's a pro tip most people miss: you can use either the original or a photocopy of your ID. If using a photocopy, make sure it shows both sides and have your guarantor or signing official sign and date it.

Step 2: Find Your Guarantor and References

This step trips up more applicants than any other. You need one guarantor and two references – and your guarantor cannot be one of your references.

Your Guarantor Requirements

Your guarantor must be a Canadian citizen who can vouch for your identity. Here are the non-negotiable requirements:

• 18 years or older
• Known you personally for at least 2 years
• Canadian citizen with a valid Canadian passport (or one expired for less than a year)
• Was 16 or older when they got their passport
• Available if Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) needs to contact them

Unlike references, your guarantor can be a family member. So if your Canadian spouse or sibling meets the requirements, they can serve as your guarantor.

Your Two References

References have simpler requirements:

• 18 years or older
• Known you for at least 2 years
• Willing to let you use their contact information

The key restriction: references cannot be family members or your guarantor.

Common Guarantor Mistakes to Avoid

The biggest mistake? Choosing someone whose passport expired more than a year ago. Check their passport expiry date before asking them to be your guarantor. The second most common error is selecting someone who's known you for less than two years – the government is strict about this timeline.

Step 3: Get Professional Passport Photos

You need two identical photos that meet specific requirements. Don't try to save money with a DIY photo booth – go to a professional photographer who knows passport photo standards.

On the back of one photo, the photographer must include:

• Studio or company name
• Complete business address
• Date the photos were taken

Your guarantor must sign the back of one photo. This signature confirms they can verify your identity.

Step 4: Complete Your Application Form

Download the official form from the IRCC website – never use third-party sites that might have outdated versions. Take your time filling it out completely and accurately. Incomplete forms cause the most delays in processing.

Double-check every field, especially:

• Your guarantor's passport information
• Contact details for your references
• Your current address (where your passport will be mailed)

Step 5: Submit and Pay

You have two submission options:

In-Person at Service Canada: You can book an appointment online or walk in. If you're submitting original documents, going in person means you can get them back immediately after verification.

By Mail: Convenient but nerve-wracking if you're sending original documents. The good news is they'll mail everything back to you along with your passport.

2025 Passport Fees

• 5-year adult passport: $120
• 10-year adult passport: $160

Most people choose the 10-year option for the better value, but if you're planning to change your name or expect significant life changes, the 5-year might make sense.

Processing Times That Actually Matter

Standard processing takes 20 business days – that's about 4 weeks. Some Service Canada locations offer 10-business-day service, but don't count on it being available everywhere.

Need it faster? Express Pickup costs an extra $50 and delivers within 2-9 business days.

Emergency Passport Service

If you need your passport by the end of the next business day, emergency service is available. This isn't for vacation planning – it's for genuine emergencies like family medical situations abroad or urgent business travel.

For emergency service:

• Visit a passport office (not a regular Service Canada centre)
• No appointment needed
• Bring proof of your emergency
• Be prepared for additional fees

What Happens After You Submit

Once submitted, your application enters the processing queue. You'll receive your passport by mail unless you paid for pickup service. Mail delivery typically takes 5 business days after processing completes.

If there are issues with your application, IRCC will contact you or your guarantor. This is why choosing a reliable, reachable guarantor matters so much.

Planning Your Application Timeline

Here's the reality check: if you need your passport for travel, apply at least 6-8 weeks before your departure date. This accounts for processing time, potential delays, and mail delivery.

For international travel, many countries require your passport to be valid for at least 6 months beyond your travel dates. Keep this in mind when choosing between 5-year and 10-year options.

Making the Process Smoother

The biggest favor you can do yourself is being organized. Create a checklist, gather all documents before starting your application, and confirm your guarantor's availability before listing them.

Remember, this is the final step in your Canadian immigration journey. Take your time, follow the requirements exactly, and soon you'll be holding that powerful Canadian passport – your key to exploring 188 countries visa-free.

Your new passport represents more than just a travel document. It's proof of your Canadian citizenship and your gateway to the world as a Canadian. Whether you're visiting family abroad, exploring new countries, or simply want the peace of mind that comes with having proper documentation, your Canadian passport opens doors that your citizenship certificate alone cannot.