Losing your passport is stressful. But thankfully, there’s a straightforward process to report and replace your lost Canadian passport in Vancouver, and we’re here to help make it as smooth as possible.
For notarizing forms and guiding you through each step, call (604) 731-8118 today.
1. Immediate Actions Upon Realizing Your Passport is Lost
Before diving into paperwork and forms, take a moment to double-check for your passport. Retrace your steps, search common places, and see if it’s simply misplaced.
Once you’re sure it’s lost, take the following steps to protect yourself and prevent unauthorized use.
Contact the Vancouver Police Department
As part of the initial reporting process, notify the Vancouver Police Department about your lost or stolen passport. Filing a report helps safeguard against identity theft and establishes an official record of the loss. For online reporting, visit Vancouver Police Department’s lost/stolen identification page.
Notify Passport Canada
After reporting to the local authorities, reach out to Passport Canada’s lost or stolen reporting line at 1-800-567-6868. They will help invalidate your lost passport, effectively preventing it from being used for any unauthorized purposes.
2. Filing the Declaration Concerning a Lost Passport (PPTC203 Form)
Reporting the loss alone isn’t enough—you’ll need to complete a formal declaration. Passport Canada requires anyone who has lost or had their passport stolen to submit Form PPTC203, the “Declaration Concerning a Lost, Stolen, Inaccessible, Damaged or Found Canadian Travel Document.” This form must be included in your application to replace your passport.
Why You Need a Notary
A statutory declaration requires notarization, and that’s where we come in. Our notary services give you peace of mind, knowing that your paperwork is complete, accurate, and ready for submission.
We will witness your declaration, confirm your identity, and notarize the form so it meets all legal standards.
Key Details for PPTC203:
- Personal Details: Fill in your full name, date of birth, and other identification details.
- Lost Passport Details: Include the passport number, date of issue, and place of issue, if possible.
- Circumstances of Loss: Describe the circumstances surrounding the loss (e.g., where and when it was last seen).
For an official version of the form, you can download it from Passport Canada’s website.
3. Preparing Your Application for a Replacement Passport
Once you’ve completed the declaration process, the next step is applying for a replacement passport. In many cases, those who qualify for a renewal can take advantage of a streamlined process. If this is your first replacement or if you’re not eligible for renewal, you’ll need to follow the standard application process.
Documents Required for Replacement
Ensure you gather all the necessary documents before beginning your application. Passport Canada requires the following:
- Proof of Canadian Citizenship: This could be a birth certificate, citizenship certificate, or another official document.
- Government-Issued Photo ID: You’ll need to include a valid government-issued ID with a photo (e.g., driver’s license).
- Two Passport Photos: These photos must meet Passport Canada’s strict specifications for size, lighting, and background.
- Completed PPTC203 Form (Notarized): This includes the statutory declaration you’ve completed and had notarized with our assistance.
Submitting Your Application
- In-Person Submission: Submitting your application at a local Service Canada Passport Office is usually the quickest option. The in-person process allows for direct handling of your documents, often expediting the replacement time.
- Mail Submission: If preferred, you can mail your application. Note, however, that mailed applications may take longer to process, and any missing documentation could result in additional delays.
Each document serves to verify your identity and citizenship, which is essential for both the security of the passport issuance process and for your own protection.
4. Processing Times and Fees
Passport Canada generally outlines the following timelines:
Standard Processing Times
For standard applications, processing times are typically around 20 business days from the day Passport Canada receives your application. However, processing times may vary, so it’s wise to check the Passport Canada website for the latest estimates.
Expedited Processing
If you need your passport sooner, expedited services are available for an additional fee. Expedited options include urgent and express services, allowing you to receive your passport in as little as two business days.
Replacement Fees
Replacement passports for lost or stolen documents involve additional fees. These fees may vary depending on whether you require expedited services or are applying for a standard replacement. Generally, replacement fees include:
- Application Fee: Standard fee for passport replacement.
- Expedited Service Fee: Extra charge for urgent or express processing.
Lost Your Passport? We Can Help
Losing a passport is frustrating, but getting it replaced doesn’t have to be.
Contact us at (604) 731-8118 today.
Disclaimer: The material on this website is for general information only. It is not, nor is it to be relied on, as legal advice or advice about what you might require. Every person’s situation is individual and unique. Determining what is appropriate about any situation can only be given upon a full review of all relevant information. Contact our office to review your circumstances.
Leonard M. Cohen - Lawyer and Notary Public 