How to fill out a new Canadian adult passport application (PPTC 153)
A clear walkthrough of the new Canadian adult passport application (form PPTC 153), for a first adult passport or when you are not eligible to renew.
Prepare this form nowOfficial PPTC 153 guidance ↗
The PPTC 153 is the Government of Canada application for a new adult passport. You use it for your first adult passport, your first passport after turning 16, or any time you are not eligible for renewal. An adult passport can be issued for 5 or 10 years.
First, check that you actually need this form
PPTC 153 is the longer, harder route: it requires a guarantor and two references, which renewal does not. Do not fill it in until you have ruled renewal out.
Since July 28, 2026, every eligible adult with a Canadian address can renew online. You can generally renew, online or on paper, if your most recent adult passport was issued within the last 15 years, at age 16 or older, is undamaged, and carries the same name, date of birth, place of birth and sex identifier you will use now.
If all of that is true, renew instead. Not sure? Answer a few questions to check your route.
You genuinely need PPTC 153 when:
- This is your first adult passport, or your first since turning 16
- Your most recent passport was issued more than 15 years ago
- Your passport was damaged, lost, stolen, seized or surrendered
- Your name, date of birth, place of birth or sex identifier has changed
What you need to prepare
- Proof of Canadian citizenship
- A valid piece of identification showing your name, photo and signature
- A guarantor and two references
- Two identical passport photos meeting the specification
- The applicable fee, which differs for a 5-year and a 10-year passport
Guarantor and references
A new adult application requires a guarantor who has known you for at least two years and holds a valid Canadian passport, plus two references who are not related to you. The guarantor cannot charge you for the service, and must be reachable if the Passport Program contacts them. ReadyForm prepares these sections and flags the eligibility rules.
Photos and signatures
Provide two identical photos taken by a commercial photographer to the official specification. Do not sign the form or the photos until you are instructed to during submission.
If your passport was lost or stolen
You will also need the PPTC 203 declaration alongside your PPTC 153. The interview asks about this and links you to the official form when it applies.
Frequently asked questions
Who needs PPTC 153 instead of a renewal?
You need the new adult application if it is your first adult passport, your first after age 16, or if you do not meet the renewal conditions - for example a passport issued more than 15 years ago, or one that was damaged, lost or stolen.
Should I check whether I can renew online first?
Yes. Since July 28, 2026 every eligible adult in Canada can renew online, which is faster and needs no guarantor. Only use PPTC 153 once you have confirmed you are not eligible to renew.
How long is an adult passport valid?
You can choose a 5-year or 10-year adult passport. The fees are different for each.
What is a guarantor?
A guarantor confirms your identity. They must generally have known you for at least two years and hold a valid Canadian passport. ReadyForm checks the current rules for you.
Can ReadyForm submit my application?
No. ReadyForm prepares the official form and a document checklist. You submit it yourself in person or by mail.
Ready to prepare your PPTC 153?
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.