How Long Does It Take to Obtain a Canadian Passport- A Comprehensive Timeline Guide_1

How Many Years to Get a Canadian Passport?

Obtaining a Canadian passport is a significant milestone for many individuals, whether they are born in Canada or have chosen to make it their new home. The process of acquiring a Canadian passport can vary depending on several factors, including the applicant’s citizenship status and the reason for applying. In this article, we will explore the different scenarios and provide an estimate of how many years it typically takes to get a Canadian passport.

For Canadian citizens, the process is relatively straightforward. Once they reach the age of 18, they can apply for a Canadian passport. The processing time for a first-time application is generally around 18 to 20 weeks. However, this timeline can be affected by various factors, such as the volume of applications received by Passport Canada, the completeness of the application, and the need for additional documentation.

For individuals who are not Canadian citizens but wish to apply for a Canadian passport, the process is more complex. There are several pathways to Canadian citizenship, and the time it takes to obtain a passport can vary significantly depending on the route chosen. Here are some common scenarios:

1. Naturalization: If an applicant has been a permanent resident of Canada for at least three years, they may be eligible to apply for Canadian citizenship. The processing time for naturalization applications is currently around 24 to 36 months. Once citizenship is granted, the applicant can apply for a Canadian passport, which typically takes an additional 18 to 20 weeks.

2. Birthright citizenship: Children born in Canada to foreign parents may automatically be considered Canadian citizens. In this case, the child can apply for a Canadian passport as soon as they reach the age of 18, with the same processing time as mentioned earlier for Canadian citizens.

3. Derivative citizenship: If a foreign national’s spouse or common-law partner becomes a Canadian citizen, they may be eligible for derivative citizenship. The processing time for derivative citizenship applications is currently around 24 to 36 months, followed by the 18 to 20-week processing time for a Canadian passport.

4. Canadian Experience Class: Individuals who have worked in Canada for at least one year within the past three years may be eligible to apply for Canadian citizenship under the Canadian Experience Class. The processing time for this application is currently around 24 to 36 months, with the subsequent passport application taking an additional 18 to 20 weeks.

In conclusion, the time it takes to get a Canadian passport can range from as little as 18 weeks for Canadian citizens to several years for individuals applying through other pathways. It is essential for applicants to be aware of the specific requirements and processing times associated with their situation to ensure a smooth and efficient application process.