Citizenship Guide
Getting a Canadian passport after citizenship
In short
In short: To get your first Canadian passport you need proof of citizenship, which for new citizens is your citizenship certificate. You can only apply once you have the certificate. Adults and children apply separately, and the Passport Program sets the current forms, photos, fees and document rules, so follow its instructions when you apply. Passing a practice test, or the citizenship test itself, doesn’t make you eligible for a passport; only becoming a citizen does.
Last reviewed: . Written and checked against official sources by ChowChow Labs, an independent study website. This is general information, not legal or immigration advice.
When you can apply
- Take the oath at your citizenship ceremony.
- Receive your citizenship certificate (paper, or an e-certificate you print).
- Apply for your passport with the certificate as your proof of citizenship.
Wait for your Canadian passport before you leave Canada. Your citizenship certificate isn’t a travel document, and dual citizens generally need a valid Canadian passport to fly back to Canada.
Adults and children
- Adults (16 and older): use the new adult passport application.
- Children (under 16): a parent or legal guardian applies with the child passport application.
Each application has its own form, photo, guarantor or reference and fee rules. Check the Passport Program’s pages for the version that applies to you.
What you’ll usually need
- Proof of Canadian citizenship (your citizenship certificate)
- Proof of identity, as listed by the Passport Program
- Passport photos that meet the current photo rules
- The completed application form
- Payment of the passport fee
The Passport Program explains when it needs your original certificate and when a copy is accepted, and how to use an e-certificate. Rules and fees change, so check its proof of citizenship page (opens in a new tab) before you apply.
How to apply
Depending on current options, you can apply online, by mail or in person at a passport office or Service Canada location. Applying in person may be faster if you need to travel soon. The Passport Program lists offices and service options.
Common questions
Can I travel with my citizenship certificate?
No. A citizenship certificate isn’t a travel document. Get your Canadian passport before you travel.
Can I use my e-certificate to apply for a passport?
IRCC says to print your e-certificate before you apply for a passport. Follow the Passport Program’s current instructions on proof of citizenship.
Official sources
Government pages are in English and French.
- Passport Program: Apply for a new adult passport (opens in a new tab)
- Passport Program: Proof of citizenship for a new adult passport (opens in a new tab)
- Passport Program: Child passport (opens in a new tab)
- IRCC: After the ceremony (certificate and passport) (opens in a new tab)
- IRCC: Citizenship e-certificate (opens in a new tab)
- IRCC: Dual Canadian citizens travelling to Canada (opens in a new tab)
- Passport Program: Contact and offices (opens in a new tab)
Related guides
- Citizenship ceremony, oath and certificateWhat to expect and bring, the oath or affirmation, and your citizenship certificate.
- Rights, benefits and responsibilities of Canadian citizensWhat only citizens can do, and the duties that come with citizenship.
- Voting and elections for new citizensWho can vote federally, how to register, ways to vote and what ID to bring.
Canadian Citizenship Test Prep is an independent educational resource made by ChowChow Labs. It is not affiliated with or endorsed by the Government of Canada, IRCC, Elections Canada or the Passport Program. Official rules can change: always confirm details with the linked authority. For questions about your own case, contact IRCC or a licensed lawyer or immigration consultant.