Child Passport in Canada: How to Apply for Under 16

Children under 16 get a 5-year passport that costs $58.50 in Canada. Child passports can't be renewed, so you apply for a new one each time. A parent or legal guardian applies with the child's proof of citizenship, two photos and a guarantor.

By Sarah Moglin Fact-checked by Samuel Athur

Last verified November 8, 2026 How we check our facts

Child passport fees

$58.50 in Canada, $102.50 outside Canada. Child passports are always valid for 5 years.

Once your child turns 16, they apply for an adult passport themselves. Their child passport can't be renewed.

Step by step

Check who can apply.
A parent or legal guardian with custody of the child applies.
Gather the child's proof of Canadian citizenship.
Original birth certificate or citizenship certificate.
Get two identical photos of the child.
Same size rules as adults. Babies can be photographed in a car seat with a white blanket behind the head.
Have a guarantor sign.
The guarantor must have known the parent applying for at least 2 years and know the child. For a child passport, the guarantor can be the other parent, a relative or someone living at your address, if they meet the other guarantor rules. They sign the form and one photo.
Include custody documents if they apply.
If there are separation, divorce or custody papers that mention the child, include them.
Submit in person or by mail and pay $58.50.

Phone numbers

Passport Program (Canada and U.S.)

1-800-567-6868

Monday to Friday, 8:30 am to 5 pm local time (Newfoundland 9 am to 5:30 pm). Closed on statutory holidays.

Canadian Passport Photo Requirements: Size and Rules Canadian passport photos are 50 mm wide by 70 mm high, with the face 31 to 36 mm from chin to crown. You need two identical photos taken in the last 6 months, on a plain white or light background, with a neutral expression. Online renewal needs a digital photo from a commercial photographer. Canadian Passport Fees 2026: Adult, Child and Urgent Service A 10-year adult passport costs $163.50 and a 5-year adult passport $122.50 when you apply in Canada. A child passport (5 years) costs $58.50. Urgent pickup by the end of the next business day adds $125.75. These fees took effect on March 31, 2026. Passport Processing Times in Canada: How Long It Takes Passport applications by mail or online take up to 20 business days plus mailing time. In person, standard service takes 10 or 20 business days. If you have proof of travel, passport offices offer express pickup in 2 to 9 business days or urgent pickup by the end of the next business day.

Frequently asked questions

Can I renew my child's passport?

No. Each child passport needs a new application.

How fast can I get a child passport?

Standard service takes 10 to 20 business days. With proof of travel, passport offices offer urgent pickup by the end of the next business day.

Sources

North Help Desk is an independent guide, not a government website. Rules, amounts and phone hours can change; always confirm on the official page before you act. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.