Identity Requirements for Applicants (Aged 16 and Over)

To apply for a Canadian passport, individuals aged 16 and older must provide proof of identity. Acceptable identification must be issued by a federal, provincial, territorial, or internationally recognized authority and must clearly show:

• Full name

• Date of birth

• Sex

• Photograph

• Signature

You may provide one or more pieces of identification to fulfill all the required elements. If any of these are missing, the application may be refused.

Name Change Due to Relationship Status

If you are applying for a passport under a relationship-based surname that differs from your birth or citizenship document, you must include one of the following supporting documents:

• Marriage certificate

• Common-law relationship certificate

• Court-issued separation or divorce order/judgment (from Canada or abroad)

• Certificate to dissolve a registered common-law relationship

• Resumption of surname certificate

The identification submitted must reflect the relationship surname requested in the application.

Lost or Stolen Passport

If your Canadian passport is lost or stolen, it is essential to notify Passport Canada immediately. You will be required to complete a formal process to obtain a replacement passport, which may include submitting additional documentation and paying applicable fees.

For Canadians Living Abroad

Canadian citizens residing outside of Canada may apply for a passport with the help of a qualified guarantor. The guarantor can be:

• An adult who holds a valid or recently expired Canadian passport (expired less than one year ago), or

• A professional in one of the following occupations (citizenship not required):

  • Medical doctor

  • Dean or head of a university or college

  • Dentist

  • Judge

  • Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant (RCIC)

  • Notary public

  • Pharmacist

  • Police officer

  • Signing officer of a bank, trust company, or financial institution offering full banking services

  • Veterinarian

The guarantor must have known the applicant personally for at least two years and be able to confirm the applicant’s identity.

Passport Refusals and Appeals

If your passport application has been refused, revoked, or you have been denied passport services, you may have the right to request a review of the decision. This process can be complex, and Odogwu, led by a licensed Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant (RCIC), can help guide you through the appropriate steps for appeal or judicial review where applicable.