How to fill out a Canadian child passport application (PPTC 155)
Everything you need to complete a Canadian child passport application (form PPTC 155) for a child under 16 — and a faster way to fill it in without mistakes.
The PPTC 155 is the Government of Canada application for a passport for a child under 16. A parent or legal guardian must complete and sign it. A child passport is valid for up to five years.
Important: a child’s passport cannot be renewed. Even if the child has held a passport before, a new PPTC 155 application is always required.
Prepare this form nowOfficial PPTC 155 guidance ↗
Who needs PPTC 155
Any Canadian child under 16 applying from within Canada, whether it is their first passport or a replacement for an expiring or expired one. The application is prepared by the child’s parent or legal guardian.
What you need to prepare
- The child’s proof of Canadian citizenship
- Details for both parents / the legal guardian, and any custody or court documents where applicable
- A guarantor, plus two references
- Two identical passport photos meeting the official specification
- The applicable fee
Guarantor and references
Most child applications need a guarantor who has known the applying parent for at least two years and holds a valid Canadian passport, plus two references. ReadyForm asks the right questions and places the answers on the form so nothing is missed.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Signing the photos or form before you are told to
- Using a photo that does not meet the size or quality rules
- Missing a required parent signature or custody document
- Assuming a child passport can be renewed — it cannot
Frequently asked questions
Can a Canadian child passport be renewed?
No. There is no renewal for a child passport. Every child passport requires a new PPTC 155 application, even if the child has had one before.
How long is a child passport valid?
A child passport is issued for up to five years and cannot be extended.
Who can apply for a child’s passport?
A parent or a legal guardian must apply on behalf of a child under 16.
Do I need a guarantor for a child passport?
Most applications require a guarantor and two references. ReadyForm checks whether your situation needs one and prepares those sections for you.
Ready to prepare your PPTC 155?
ReadyForm asks plain-language questions, fills the current official form for your review, and builds your document checklist. It never submits the application for you.