Preparing Documents

Passport • Visa • Dual Citizenship • Drivers License • What documents to take

Passport 

All Canadian citizens need to have a valid passport before they can take up residence abroad. You can apply in person at one of 26 regional offices nationwide, or send an application by mail. It takes up to 5 business days when you apply in person and 3 weeks if sent by mail. Applications can be found at passport offices, some travel agencies, post offices, as well as Canadian diplomatic and consular missions abroad.

If your passport is going to expire soon, check with the host country's embassy or consulate in Canada for its rules and regulations regarding validity and expiration. Some countries will refuse entry if your passport is going to expire within 6 months of your expected day of departure.

You may also download a copy of the application or get more information at the Canadian Passport Office.

Replacing a lost passport

Should your passport be lost or stolen, report this immediately to local police and the nearest Consulate. The request for a replacement passport can be made in Canada or at a Canadian mission abroad. However, before the document can be replaced, Canadian authorities will conduct an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident.

A replacement passport (which may be valid for a limited period only) may be authorized provided strict requirements are met. These include the submission of:

A completed application form.
Two identical current passport photos.
The appropriate fee.
Documentary proof of Canadian citizenship (i.e., birth certificate)
A "Statutory Declaration concerning a Lost, Stolen, Inaccessible or Destroyed Canadian Passport or Travel Document"

Visa

All governments require foreigners to obtain a visa or work permit in order to reside, work, study and in some cases, visit in their country. Contact the Embassy or Consulate of your host country for specific visa requirements. Visas should be obtained before leaving Canada and one should apply well in advance of your departure date, as the application process can be long and time consuming.

Some countries require foreign nationals to complete a registration card, obtained either before or after arrival. This should be carried at all times.

Dual Citizenship

Having dual citizenship does not necessarily mean that you can work in the other country of which you are a citizen. Contact the embassy for a definite ruling. Also consider that acquiring Canadian citizenship may lead to the automatic cancellation of other citizenships without your prior knowledge. There are also other factors to consider as well, such a compulsory military service, as well as the potential loss of your right to protection and assistance from Canadian consular officials.

International Driving License

Most countries require you to obtain an International Drivers Licence in order to drive legally in their country. Contact the Canadian Automobile Association (CAA) for information on how to obtain one. It is important to know that some countries require you to get a local licence after a certian period of residence in their country

What Documents To Take

It is important to take all essential documents with you while travelling.  While travelling across borders and throught airflights, you should keep your passport, visa and airplane ticket accessible. 

Copies of these items should also be left with your emergency contact.

If you are going to be living in an area with internet access, it is strongly encouraged that you make a digital copy of your passport, visa, numbers of your travel cheques and important telephone numbers (ie, number to report lost or stolen credit cards).

A seperate copy of your passport can be taped to the inside of your luggage.  Not only will htis provide you with an additional copy, should your passport be lost or stolen, but can also help identify your luggage should it be lost in travel.