References and Guarantors for Passport Applications
Why are they required?
References and Guarantors are needed as a security measure to confirm the identity of the person applying for a passport. Whomever you list as your reference or guarantor could be contacted during the application process.
Who can be a Reference?
You are required to have two references for new passport applications and passport renewal applications. Your references must:
- Have known you for at least two years;
- Cannot be family members; and
- Must be 18 years of age or older.
An important thing to remember is that whomever you use as your guarantor cannot be used as a reference.
What is a Guarantor?
A guarantor is needed for all new passport applications. A guarantor can be a family member or any individual living at your address, provided they meet the requirements.
The guarantor must do the following without charging a fee:
- Complete and sign the “Declaration of Guarantor” section of your application;
- Write “I certify this to be a true likeness of (the applicant’s name)” on the pack of one of the passport photos, and then sign it;
- The guarantor must sign and date any photocopies of documents that are being used to verify your identity.
What if I cannot find a Guarantor?
If you do not know an eligible individual for at least two years, you can complete a “Statutory Declaration in Lieu of Guarantor” or form PPTC 132. You can get this form from any passport office.
The “Statutory Declaration in Lieu of Guarantor” form must be sworn or declared before, and signed by, a lawyer or notary public.
If you require a guarantor, please call Vancouver Downtown Notary at 778-819-8553 or email us at [email protected]. We are conveniently located across the street from Passport Canada on West Hastings.
