Obtaining a passport can be an exciting step, opening doors to international travel and new adventures. However, some Canadians may face challenges with the guarantor requirement during the application process. This is where a notary public can assist!
Who Needs a Notary for Their Passport Application?
In Ontario, passport applicants typically need a guarantor to confirm their identity. This guarantor must have known the applicant for at least two years, be able to verify the applicant’s Canadian citizenship, and not be a close relative. If you can’t find a suitable guarantor, a notary public can help by witnessing your Statutory Declaration in Lieu of Guarantor, a legal document that serves as a substitute for the guarantor’s signature.
How a Notary Assists with Passport Applications
A notary public will:
Verify Your Identification: Confirm that you are who you claim to be and check your valid government-issued ID.
Witness Your Signature: Observe you signing the Statutory Declaration in Lieu of Guarantor.
Apply Their Notary Seal: This official stamp validates the notary’s participation and authenticates the document.
What to Bring to Your Notary Appointment
Your Completed Passport Application Package: This should include the application form, your photos, and any required supporting documents.
Valid Government-Issued ID: This could be your driver’s license, passport (if applying for a renewal), permanent resident card, or birth certificate.
The Statutory Declaration in Lieu of Guarantor Form: This form is usually part of your application package. If not, you can find it on the Government of Canada website (https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/canadian-passports.html)
The passport application process can be simplified with the help of a notary public. If you can’t find a guarantor, don’t worry—contact a notary public to complete the Statutory Declaration in Lieu of Guarantor and proceed with your travel plans.
At North Vista Notary Public in Mississauga, we are ready to assist with all your notarization and legal information needs, ensuring your documents are handled efficiently and professionally. If you have any questions or need notary services, please feel free to contact us.
Contact Us
Visit North Vista Notary Public at 170 Robert Speck Parkway, Mississauga, call +1 (437) 887 0123, or check www.northvistanotary.com for more info.
Happy travels!
