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Travel Documents for children

For children whose parents were not married at the time of the child's birth, Passport Canada requires a long-form birth certificate showing both parents' information.

For children whose parents were married at the time of the child's birth, Passport Canada recommends a long-form birth certificate showing both parents' information.

Why does my child need a travel document?

Travel documents

The International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) has recommended a policy requiring every individual who travels by air to have his or her own travel document. 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 travel document with a photo and other identifying information.

Who may apply for a child's travel document?

  • 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, the 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 a joint custody provision exists, either parent may apply, but both parents must sign the application.

Validity of a child's travel document

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