News Release

Calgary South Passport Office now open Saturdays

Gatineau, Quebec Beginning January 8th, 2005, the Calgary South Passport Office at 14331 Macleod Trail SW will be open on Saturdays. Its hours of operation will be from 8:30 to 1:30, and will be in effect until March 26, 2005.

"The Passport Office is committed to ensuring the safety and security of the Canadian passport, while providing efficient and timely services to its clients," said Chief Executive Officer Doreen Steidle. "The Saturday openings will help to manage the increasing demand for passport services through the winter months."

More than 125,000 travel documents were issued in Calgary in fiscal year 2003-2004, and forecasts show a ten percent increase in requests for passport services in 2004-2005. Nationally, the Passport Office issued more than 2.5 million passports in fiscal year 2003-2004, and expects its totals to be close to 3 million this fiscal year.

In an effort to facilitate and accelerate the passport application process for traveling Canadians, the Passport Office strongly recommends that Canadians who wish to obtain their passports within ten working days submit their application in person at passport offices. Passport applications can also be mailed to the Passport Office, with a turnaround time of 20 working days upon receipt of the completed application.

It is important that applicants ensure their application form is filled out properly and all the required documentation is enclosed. Any missing or incomplete information will create delays in the application process. Passport applicants will find a complete checklist to help identify the steps in the passport application process at www.pptc.gc.ca or by calling our toll free line at 1 800 567-6868.

The Passport Office of Canada is a Special Operating Agency of Foreign Affairs Canada. Its mission is to facilitate travel for Canadians by delivering internationally respected travel documents that meet the highest security standards in the world.

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