Don’t Risk Travel Delays: What’s Changed in Children’s Passport Applications

Attention parents and family adventurers—if you're in the process of applying for your child's Canadian passport, you've come to the right place. As of November 5, 2024, Canada has implemented significant changes to the child passport application procedure, particularly regarding proof of legal parenthood or guardianship. Let's explore these updates together, with the clarity and confidence that Ontario is known for.

What Changed in 2024?

The Government of Canada has implemented stricter rules aimed at better protecting children and ensuring that only legal guardians can apply for their passports. The most significant change? Proof of parentage is now mandatory for every child passport application—even if your child has previously held a passport.

In Ontario, this requires submitting a certified copy of the birth registration—commonly known as the long-form birth certificate—when applying for your child’s passport.

Proving Parentage for a Child Passport

Consider this as creating a paper trail that unequivocally establishes your legal relationship with your child. The long-form birth certificate is now the standard. It includes:

• Your child’s full name

• Date and place of birth

• Full names of both parents

• Registration number and date

  
  

This document is issued by ServiceOntario, and you can request it online or by mail. If you only possess the short-form version, you’ll need to acquire the long-form one before applying.

If you’re an adoptive parent or guardian, other documents like adoption orders or court-issued custody documents are also acceptable.

Why Parentage Proof Matters

This isn’t merely bureaucratic formalism—it’s about safeguarding your child. The new regulations help:

• Prevent unauthorized passport applications

• Guard against child abduction and trafficking

• Ensure only legal guardians can make travel decisions

It’s a protective measure for your family and part of a wider global movement towards stricter child travel security.

Applying for a Child’s Passport in Ontario

Here’s your updated checklist for applying for a child passport in Ontario:

✅ Required Documents

1. Completed application form [PPTC 155]

2. Long-form birth certificate (certified copy of birth registration from Ontario)

3. Proof of Canadian citizenship (if not born in Canada)

4. Parental consent from all legal guardians

5. Passport photos (must meet stringent specifications)

6. Guarantor declaration

7. Application fee

   
   

🕒 Processing Time

Standard processing may take several months depending on your location, though it could take longer during busy periods. If you're planning a trip, be sure to apply early!

💡 Pro Tips

• Verify that all names and dates match across documents.

• Use a professional photographer for passport photos.

• If you're a single parent, be prepared to provide custody documents or a letter of consent from the other parent.

  
  

Avoiding Common Mistakes

Here are a few common pitfalls to avoid:

• Submitting the short-form birth certificate instead of the long-form version

• Missing signatures from all legal guardians

• Incorrect or outdated photos

• Delaying too long before applying to travel

Final Thoughts

Indeed, the 2024 changes add a few more steps, but they are focused on keeping your child safe and ensuring only the correct individuals can apply for their passport. With the right documents and a bit of preparation, you’ll be ready to send your little explorer off on their next adventure—passport in hand!