Are You Eligible to Get a Canadian Passport?

For many Australians considering life abroad, Canada stands out as one of the most attractive destinations. With its stable economy, inclusive society, and high quality of life, it is not surprising that thousands of skilled professionals, students, and families look to make Canada their permanent home each year.

One of the most important milestones for newcomers is obtaining a Canadian passport. It is not just a travel document; it is a symbol of belonging, providing international mobility, security, and access to global opportunities. But before you can hold one, you must first understand the eligibility requirements and the journey involved in becoming a Canadian citizen.

• A Canadian passport is proof of citizenship and provides full rights, protection, and identity worldwide.
• In 2024, Canada welcomed over 470,000 new permanent residents, with many on track for citizenship.
• The Canadian passport allows visa-free or visa-on-arrival travel to over 180 countries.
• Dual citizenship is recognised, enabling Australians to keep both Canadian and Australian passports.
• Passport holders enjoy consular assistance abroad and full political participation within Canada.

 

The Value of a Canadian Passport

A Canadian passport is more than a travel document—it is a powerful symbol of citizenship, identity, and opportunity. Issued only to Canadian citizens, it provides visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to over 180 countries, ranking among the most respected passports globally.

Holding a Canadian passport gives you:

• Freedom of movement: Live, work, and study anywhere in Canada without restriction.
• Social protection: Access to Canada’s healthcare, education, and social security systems.
• Democratic rights: Participate fully in federal, provincial, and municipal elections.
• International support: Benefit from consular services when travelling abroad.

For Australians, obtaining a Canadian passport means enhanced global mobility and expanded career opportunities, not just in North America but across Europe, Asia, and beyond.

 

The Pathway to Obtaining a Canadian Passport

Securing a Canadian passport involves a structured journey that begins with Permanent Residence and ends with naturalisation as a citizen.

Step 1: Apply for Permanent Residence (PR) through programs such as Express Entry, Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs), or family sponsorship.

Step 2: Settle in Canada as a PR and begin fulfilling residency and other requirements.

Step 3: Accumulate the required physical presence of 1,095 days within the last five years.

Step 4: Apply for Canadian citizenship once residency, language, and character criteria are met.

Step 5: Obtain your Canadian passport after successfully becoming a naturalised citizen.

 

Popular Pathways for Australians to Obtain Canadian Citizenship

For Australians aiming to secure Canadian citizenship and ultimately a Canadian passport, there are several well-established immigration routes. These pathways are designed to attract skilled talent, reunite families, and create opportunities for long-term settlement.

• Express Entry: A competitive points-based system that favours young, skilled professionals with strong English language ability—making it an ideal pathway for many Australians.
• Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs): Provinces and territories nominate candidates with skills that meet their specific labour shortages, often offering a faster route to Permanent Residence.
• Family Sponsorship: Australians with close relatives who are Canadian citizens or Permanent Residents may qualify through sponsorship programs, facilitating reunification.
• Study to PR Pathway: Many Australians begin with Canadian education, obtain post-graduation work permits, and later transition to PR through programs such as the Canadian Experience Class.

These options reflect the high compatibility of Australian qualifications, work experience, and language skills with Canada’s immigration priorities, making the pathway to citizenship both realistic and rewarding.

 

Eligibility Criteria for Canadian Citizenship

Since Canadian passports are issued only to citizens, the first step is meeting the requirements for naturalisation. The eligibility criteria are set by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) to ensure applicants are fully prepared to integrate into Canadian society.

You may qualify for Canadian citizenship if you:

• Hold Permanent Resident status: You must be a PR with no outstanding conditions such as unresolved reviews or pending immigration issues.
• Meet physical presence requirements: You must have lived in Canada for at least 1,095 days (three years) within the last five years before applying.
• File taxes: If required, you must have filed income tax returns for at least three years during the five-year eligibility period.
• Demonstrate language proficiency: Applicants aged 18–54 must prove adequate English or French skills through approved language tests or educational credentials.
• Pass the citizenship test: Those aged 18–54 must complete a written or oral test covering Canadian history, culture, values, rights, and responsibilities.
• Meet good character standards: You must not have a serious criminal record or unresolved legal matters in Canada or abroad.

Once these conditions are fulfilled, you can apply for Canadian citizenship—and, upon approval, become eligible for a Canadian passport.

 

Understanding the Physical Presence Requirement

One of the most important eligibility factors for Canadian citizenship is the physical presence rule. To apply, you must demonstrate that you have lived in Canada long enough to establish strong ties and integration into the community.

• Minimum Requirement: Applicants must have spent at least 1,095 days (3 years) in Canada within the last 5 years before applying.
• Permanent Residents: Each day spent in Canada as a PR counts as a full day toward the total.
• Temporary Residents: Time in Canada before PR status (such as studying or working) may count as half-days, up to a maximum of 365 days.
• Exceptions: Extended time abroad may affect eligibility unless you are working overseas for the Canadian government, armed forces, or other approved institutions.

This requirement ensures that future citizens have built genuine connections to Canadian life before being granted full citizenship.

 

Canadian Citizenship Test and Language Proficiency Requirements

Applicants between the ages of 18 and 54 are required to demonstrate both language ability and civic knowledge as part of the Canadian citizenship process. These criteria ensure that new citizens are prepared to integrate fully into Canadian society.

• Language Proficiency
  • Adequate knowledge of either English or French must be demonstrated.
  • Proof may be provided through results from approved language examinations such as IELTS (English) or TEF (French).
  • Alternatively, completion of Canadian educational programs in English or French may be accepted.
• Citizenship Test
  • Applicants must pass a written or oral test assessing knowledge of Canada’s history, geography, and political institutions.
  • The test also evaluates familiarity with Canadian symbols, values, and the rights and responsibilities of citizens.
  • This requirement ensures that future citizens have an informed understanding of the country’s democratic framework and cultural identity.

 

After Citizenship – Applying for a Canadian Passport

Once you become a Canadian citizen, applying for a passport is straightforward. The requirements include:

• Proof of Canadian citizenship
• Valid identification
• Passport photos meeting official specifications.
• Completed application forms and applicable fees.

As of 2025, the standard adult passport fee is around CAD 160 for a 10-year passport. Processing times vary but generally range from 20 to 45 business days, with expedited options available for urgent cases.

 

Key Documents Required for a Canadian Passport

Applicants must prepare the correct documentation to ensure smooth processing. The key documents include:

• Proof of Canadian Citizenship: Citizenship certificate, naturalisation certificate, or birth certificate.
• Government-Issued ID: Such as a driver’s licence or other valid identification.
• Passport Photos: Two identical photos following official specifications.
• Completed Application Form: Signed and dated passport application form.
• Payment of Fees: CAD 160 for a standard 10-year adult passport.
• Guarantor and References: A guarantor to confirm identity and references to verify personal details.

These requirements ensure proper verification of identity and eligibility before issuing a passport.

Benefits of a Canadian Passport

Holding a Canadian passport provides several advantages:

• Global Mobility: Visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to over 180 countries, including the EU, UK, and Australia.
• Dual Citizenship: Canada recognises dual citizenship, allowing Australians to hold both passports.
• Consular Protection: Assistance from Canadian embassies and consulates abroad.
• Security and Identity: International recognition as a Canadian citizen.
• Political Rights: Full participation in Canada’s democratic system.
• For professionals and families, the Canadian passport is both a practical and symbolic asset.

 

Visa-Free Countries for Canadian Passport Holders

Canadian passport holders enjoy visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to more than 180 countries worldwide. Below is a list of popular destinations across different regions.

United Kingdom	France	Germany	Italy	Spain	Netherlands
Switzerland	Belgium	Austria	Denmark	Sweden	Norway
Finland	Ireland	Portugal	Greece	Poland	Hungary
Czech Republic	Slovakia	Slovenia	Croatia	Estonia	Latvia
Lithuania	Malta	Cyprus	Luxembourg	Iceland	Liechtenstein
Japan	South Korea	Singapore	Malaysia	Thailand	Indonesia
Philippines	Hong Kong	Taiwan	Vietnam	Cambodia	Laos
Australia	New Zealand	Fiji	Samoa	Vanuatu	Tonga
Papua New Guinea	Solomon Islands	Kiribati	Micronesia	Palau	Marshall Islands
Mexico	Brazil	Argentina	Chile	Peru	Colombia
Ecuador	Uruguay	Paraguay	Bolivia	Costa Rica	Panama
Guatemala	Honduras	El Salvador	Nicaragua	Belize	Dominican Republic
Jamaica	Bahamas	Barbados	Saint Lucia	Saint Kitts & Nevis	Grenada
Trinidad & Tobago	Antigua & Barbuda	Dominica	Saint Vincent & Grenadines	Guyana	Suriname
United States (ESTA/eTA equivalent)	Puerto Rico	US Virgin Islands	Bermuda	Cayman Islands	Aruba
Curaçao	Bonaire	Sint Maarten	Turks & Caicos	Saint Martin	Montserrat
United Arab Emirates	Qatar	Bahrain	Kuwait	Oman	Saudi Arabia
Turkey	Israel	Jordan	Lebanon	Georgia	Armenia
Morocco	Tunisia	South Africa	Namibia	Botswana	Zambia
Zimbabwe	Kenya	Tanzania	Uganda	Rwanda	Seychelles
Mauritius	Madagascar	Mozambique	Malawi	Lesotho	Eswatini
Egypt	Ghana	Nigeria	Senegal	Ivory Coast	Cape Verde

 

The Canadian passport represents far more than a means of international travel; it is a distinguished affirmation of citizenship, legal rights, and enduring opportunity. For Australians and other international professionals, obtaining this passport requires progression through permanent residency, fulfilment of residency and language obligations, and the successful attainment of Canadian citizenship.

With visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to over 180 countries, full participation in Canada’s democratic processes, and the recognition of dual citizenship, the Canadian passport is regarded as one of the most respected globally. For individuals aspiring to establish a secure and prosperous future in Canada, a clear understanding of the eligibility criteria is the essential first step.

 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How long does it take to get a Canadian passport after becoming a citizen?

Once you receive your Canadian citizenship certificate, you can apply for a passport immediately. Standard processing times are usually between 20 and 45 business days, though this can vary depending on demand. Applicants needing urgent travel can request expedited service, which is processed faster but may come with additional fees. It’s important to apply well ahead of planned travel dates to avoid delays. For most new citizens, the process is straightforward once all required documents are submitted correctly.

 

Can Australians hold dual citizenship with Canada?

Yes, Australians can hold dual citizenship with Canada. Both Canada and Australia permit dual citizenship, which means Australians do not need to give up their Australian nationality when obtaining Canadian citizenship. This is a major benefit as it allows individuals to hold two passports, access social and political rights in both countries, and enjoy greater global mobility. Dual citizenship also provides flexibility for work, study, or family commitments across both nations. Many Australians see this as a way to strengthen their personal and professional opportunities while maintaining strong ties to both countries.

 

What is the cost of a Canadian passport in 2025?

Detailed information about the cost of Canadian passport is given below:

Passport Type	Validity	Fee (CAD)
Adult Passport	10 years	160
Adult Passport	5 years	120
Child Passport	0–15 years	57–100
Expedited Service	Varies	Additional fees

 

Do children automatically qualify for Canadian passports?

Yes, children born in Canada automatically qualify for Canadian passports. Being born in Canada grants children Canadian citizenship, this makes them eligible to apply for a Canadian passport. For children born outside Canada, eligibility depends on their parents’ status—if at least one parent is a Canadian citizen at the time of birth, the child is also entitled to citizenship. In both cases, parents must submit proof of the child’s citizenship, valid identification, and guarantor information when applying. This process ensures that children’s Canadian nationality is formally recognised and that they can access the rights and protections of citizenship worldwide.

 

Can Canadian citizenship or passports ever be revoked?

No, Canadian citizenship and passports are not ordinarily revoked once they have been lawfully obtained. However, there are limited circumstances where this may occur. Citizenship can be revoked if it was acquired through fraud, misrepresentation, or the concealment of important facts during the application process. A Canadian passport may also be cancelled if it was issued on the basis of false or invalid documentation. Importantly, citizenship is not revoked simply for living abroad, holding dual nationality, or being inactive in Canada. For the vast majority of applicants, once granted, citizenship and passports remain lifelong privileges unless voluntarily renounced.