Before you start imagining yourself honeymooning under a tropical sun, be sure you have all your bases covered on the home front and a valid passport in hand. While preparing for your romantic getaway, the last thing you want to hear is that there is an issue with your passport. Today, Canada and many other countries are implementing new regulations.
Here’s what you need to know:
1. It’s a top priority. Most countries require a valid passport for entry, so get one no matter where you plan on vacationing. You can apply in person, online or by mail through Passport Canada–it only takes a few simple steps. Before you leave the country, find out the passport requirements for your specific destination through Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada.
2. Plan ahead. If you can, apply for your passport during off-season during (June to November). Remember that delay times depend on the type of passport you require and are by no means a guarantee. If possible, apply in person as applications can be processed in as little as two weeks. Applications sent by mail within Canada or through a receiving agent may take up to 10 weeks to process. Applications sent by mail from the U.S. may take up to 15 weeks to process.
3. Left it to the last minute? Urgent (48 hours) or express services (2-9 working days) are still available, but at an additional cost and with proof of urgency such as purchased plane tickets.
4. Play by the new rules. As of August 15, 2007, Canada’s new Simplified Passport Renewal Program will come into effect. This will allow Canadian citizens to renew their passports using a shorter form without having to provide supporting documents to prove citizenship, supplementary identification and a guarantor declaration. Instead, you’ll need to submit a shorter form with two new photos, the application fee and your last passport.
5. Get a guarantor. As of October 1, 2007, a new guarantor policy will apply as well. This will allow most Canadian adult passport holders to act as guarantors for first time applicants. To find out who can act as your guarantor, visit the Passport Canada website.
6. Flying to the U.S. Recent changes to U.S. passport rules require Canadians flying through or into the U.S. to have a valid passport or NEXUS card. (This will not apply to land or traveling by boat until summer 2008.)
7. Lost and found. Unlike a driver’s license, a passport cannot be easily replaced. If your passport is lost or stolen while you are in a foreign country, contact the nearest Canadian Consulate immediately.
8. Stay updated. Update your passport when you change your name, address and even appearance. Travelling under your new married name is a matter of preference, but to avoid any hassles, all travel arrangements should be made using the name on your passport.
9. Don’t get stranded. Check the expiry date. Adult passports are valid for five years after the issuing date, but all countries have special entry requirements that may require you to have a passport that will be valid for up to six months after your departure date. If the expiry date is very close, officials may deny you entry into their country.
10. The little things. Don’t overlook the simple stuff like signing your passport, filling in personal information and emergency contacts, and ensuring you have two recent photocopies. Leave one copy at home and take one with you (kept separate from the original)–it’s always better to be safe than sorry.
For more detailed information regarding your Canadian passport, go to ppt.gc.ca.
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