In-Laws And Family: Who Counts For Canadian Passports?

In Canada, immediate family members typically include parents, spouses, and minor children. However, there is some ambiguity regarding siblings, as they are often excluded from this classification, but half-siblings and step-siblings are also sometimes considered immediate family. In-laws are considered immediate family members in Canada, and this includes brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, mothers-in-law, and fathers-in-law. This is because the legal definition of immediate family considers individuals who are related by marriage, adoption, or civil union. Common-law partners are also considered immediate family.

In-laws are considered family members

In the context of Canadian passports and travel documents, the term "family member" is used to refer to those who can act as guarantors or references. While there is some confusion about whether or not in-laws can be considered family members in this context, it seems that the term "family member" is generally understood to include a person's spouse or common-law partner, dependent children, parents, step-parents, and the parents or step-parents of the person's spouse or common-law partner.

When it comes to guarantors for Canadian passport applications, a guarantor can be anyone who meets the basic guarantor requirements, including family members or members of the applicant's household. This means that, in this context, an in-law could be considered a family member and act as a guarantor as long as they meet the other requirements.

However, when it comes to references for Canadian passport applications, there is a specific requirement that references cannot be family members. This is where the confusion lies, as some people may consider their in-laws to be family members, while others may not. In this case, it is best to contact the Canadian Passport office for clarification, as they will be able to provide the most accurate and up-to-date information.

In summary, while in-laws are generally considered family members in Canada, there may be specific contexts, such as passport references, where they are not included in the definition of "family member". It is always best to refer to the specific requirements of the relevant Canadian government department or agency to determine whether in-laws are considered family members in a particular context.

In-laws are not considered family members

For Canadian passport applications, the guarantor can be anyone who meets the basic guarantor requirements for a regular passport. This can include a family member or a member of the applicant's household. However, references for a passport application must not be family members and must have known the applicant for at least two years.

In Canada, a family member is considered to be a blood relative, or a spouse's blood relative. This can include a spouse, common-law partner, conjugal partner, or dependent child. It can also include a parent, step-parent, foster parent, or a parent's spouse or common-law partner.

In-laws are not considered to be blood relatives, and therefore are not considered family members in the context of Canadian passport applications.

Guarantors and references for a Canada passport

When applying for a Canadian passport, you may need a guarantor or references to confirm your identity. You only need a guarantor if you are applying for a passport for the first time or if you are not eligible to renew your existing passport. If you are renewing your passport, you do not need a guarantor, but you will need to provide specific documentation.

A guarantor must have known you for at least two years and be able to confirm the information in your application is true. They can be anyone, including a family member or member of your household, as long as they meet the basic guarantor requirements for a regular (blue) passport in Canada. If your guarantor is occupation-based, they must be registered or licensed with the appropriate local authority to practice their profession. For example, they could be a financial institution that offers a full range of banking services. You can also use retired occupation-based guarantors, as long as their name still appears on the listing provided by the relevant association. If you are Regular Force personnel, Regular Military Force officers may act as a guarantor for you and your dependents if they have known you personally for two years or more.

If you cannot find a guarantor, you will need to provide two references and complete a statutory declaration in lieu of a guarantor. You must sign this form in the presence of a person authorized by law to administer oaths and declarations, such as a notary public, justice of the peace, or commissioner of oaths. Your references should be available and capable of answering questions about you, such as your name, approximate age, place of birth, physical description, and place of residence, if contacted.

If you are applying for a passport for a child or dependent adult, a parent or legal guardian cannot act as a guarantor. However, a child under the age of 19 qualifies as a "member of the family forming part of the household" and can be included in the parent's passport application. To qualify, the child must be the unmarried son or daughter of the employee and/or their spouse or common-law partner, hold a diplomatic, official, or service passport, and live in the household of the employee, unless they are studying elsewhere in Canada or abroad.

What to do if your passport is lost, damaged or stolen

If your Canadian passport is lost, stolen, or damaged, there are several steps you should take to ensure your safety and replace your travel documents. Here is a detailed guide on what to do in such situations:

Lost or Stolen Passport

Firstly, determine whether your passport is still valid. If it is, you must report it as lost or stolen immediately. You can do this by calling 1-800-567-6868 or by using an online form filler, which will create two forms (DS-64 and DS-11) if you want to apply for a new passport. Reporting your passport as lost or stolen will result in its immediate cancellation, and you will be unable to use it for international travel even if you find it later.

Damaged Passport

If your passport has been damaged, you should check if you are eligible to renew it. Renewing your passport is a simpler process than applying for a new one. However, if you are not eligible for renewal, you can apply for a new passport by submitting a declaration concerning a lost, stolen, inaccessible, damaged, or found Canadian travel document (PPTC 203) with your application.

Temporary Passport

If you are abroad and find yourself in urgent need of a travel document, Canadian government offices can issue you an emergency travel document or a temporary passport. This service is available if your passport is lost, stolen, or damaged, and you are stranded in a foreign country.

Additional Considerations

It is important to note that most government-issued documents, such as driver's licences, birth certificates, health cards, and social insurance cards, can only be replaced in Canada. Additionally, if you have travel tickets, contact the issuing company immediately to inquire about possible replacement options.

Dual citizenship and Canada passport

Dual citizens of Canada need to carry a valid Canadian passport to enter Canada by air. This is a requirement even if the other country that they are a citizen of does not require a passport to enter and exit. In this case, the individual will need to carry both passports when travelling.

If you are a dual citizen of Canada and were born outside of the country, some nations may have specific entry requirements. In some cases, you may not be able to enter the country at all. Local authorities may be within their rights to prevent Canadian consular officials from assisting you in an emergency, and you may be forced to renounce your Canadian citizenship.

To avoid delays, dual citizens should make sure they have the correct documentation before travelling. If you are unsure about your status, you can check your eligibility online.

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