Travelling with children Proof of citizenship

Passports for children

Since December 11, 2001, all children who travel will need their own passport.

You are now required to complete a separate application form for each child requiring a passport, including newborns.

Why does my child need a passport?

The International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) has recommended a policy requiring every individual who travels by air to have his or her own passport. This policy has been put in place to combat the traffic of millions of children around the world who are often sold into slavery, child prostitution or worse. It increases the protection of children, by ensuring that they have a valid passport with a photo and other identifying information.

How does this policy affect current valid passports?

If you are a parent who holds a valid Canadian passport that lists the name of your child, the passport will remain valid for you and your child until it expires.

However, there are 2 exceptions. If your child plans to travel without you or when he/she reaches the age of 16, your child is required to have a separate passport.

Who can apply for a child passport?

• One of the child's parents.
• The custodial parent in cases of separation or divorce.
• The legal guardian.

In the case of custody, separation or divorce

All legal documents that refer to custody or mobility of, or access to the child must be provided. If a divorce has been granted, a copy of the divorce judgement or order must also be provided. Where joint custody provision exist, either parent may apply, but both parents must sign the application.

Validity of a child passport

To ensure that the passport and the photo reflect the appearance of the child, the period of validity for a child's passport is determined by the age of the child.

Children who have been issued a passport in their first 12 months after December 11, 2001 are entitled to a replacement passport at no cost.

In order to receive such a replacement passport:

• The child must meet all application requirements.
• The applicant must submit a current photo of the child taken within one month of the date the application is submitted. This is to ensure that the photo reflects a true likeness of the child.

Updated: 2003-04-23

Important Notices