Your responsibilities

Upon receipt of a new passport

You should:

1. Verify the accuracy of the information in the passport.
2. Sign your name on page 3 in the space provided. Children 11 years of age or over must sign their own passports.
3. Write the name of a person to contact in case of emergency on page 4. We recommend that you provide the name of someone who would not normally accompany you.
4. Complete the address information on page 4.

Keeping your passport up to date

Change of name

If your name changes after you have been issued a passport, you may either use the existing passport and carry documentary evidence of the name change, or apply for a passport in the new name.

Note: It is possible to add a spousal surname observation to a valid passport that was issued in your surname at birth. As there are no standardized forms for this procedure, this service is available by forwarding the passport issued in the surname at birth, with a letter requesting the service and the fee of $12. A copy of your marriage certificate must also be submitted.

Change of address

If your address changes, ensure that you change the information on page 4.

Change of appearance

As the intent of the passport photo is to identify the person presenting his or her passport to border officials, it is essential that the photo accurately reflects the identity of the bearer. To avoid experiencing difficulties when travelling, we normally suggest that you obtain a new passport if your appearance has changed significantly.

Expiration of a passport

Many countries will not permit entry if your passport is not valid for several months beyond your date of arrival. You should not begin a trip with a passport that will expire during or shortly after your planned return. Passports are valid for five years except passports for children under three years of age, which are valid for three years. A passport cannot be renewed, therefore, a new passport must be obtained upon expiry.

Visa pages

If you hold a valid passport in which the visa pages have become filled with visas or, entry-exit stamps, you should apply for a new passport.

Updated: 2005-06-08

Important Notices