For a Canadian adult, this is what you will need:
- Two identical passport photos taken in the last 12 months. Go to one of those places that specifically say they take passport pictures, as they know what they are doing. They will stamp some information behind the pictures, like the place and the date the photo was taken (necessary!).
- This application form completed. Both the application form and one of the pictures, signed behind by your guarantor.
- Proof of your canadian citinzenship. This is your citinzenship card they gave you the day of the ceremony!
- Documents to support your identity. Driver's license, other passport, health card, any of them work.
- The fees! $87. They can be paid by credit card or debit card at the office if you are going. Or fill out the credit card information on the form if you are sending your papers.
- How long does it take? Officially it takes around 10 days if you go to the offices. More if you go to a certified "partner" like some Canada Post. Mine took less than that, around a week.
- Do I have to pick it up? If you don't have special circunstances (like paying for the express service), they send it to you (signature required) and is included in the price.
- Who can be your guarantor? The application form says among other things "hold a five-year Canadian passport that is valid or has been expired for less than one year on the day you submit your application". The guarantor doesn't have to have had the passport for 5 years! They may have it for a week or a day, it doesn't matter! But the passport has to be a 5 year validity passport!
- In the section 4.C, the date of issue of the certificate of canadian citizenship. Is the date that the little card says, not the date you got the citinzenship!
- How long do I have to wait in line if I go to the office? I was there around half an hour before the opening time and was out about an hour later!