Traveling to or Through Canada as a Dual Citizen
Essential Requirements for Dual Citizenship Holders
Mandatory Travel Documents
| • | Valid Canadian passport (air travel) |
| • | Proof of citizenship (alternative documents for land/sea) |
| • | Foreign passport from second country of citizenship |
Emergency Travel Authorization
| Eligibility | Process | Validity |
|---|---|---|
| • Urgent travel need • No valid passport • Proof of citizenship |
1. Complete online form 2. Submit supporting documents 3. Wait for approval |
• Single entry only • 48-hour response time • Must obtain passport after arrival |
Entry Methods Comparison
| Method | Accepted Documents | Additional Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| By Air | Canadian passport only | No eTA or visa accepted |
| By Land/Sea | • Passport • Citizenship certificate • Secure Certificate of Indian Status |
Enhanced driver's license (some provinces) |
Passport Application Timeline
| Service Type | Processing Time | Action Required |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Application | 20 business days | Online application portal |
| Urgent Service | 2-9 business days | In-person appointment required |
| Emergency Service | 24 hours | Proof of immediate travel |
Key Considerations
- Child citizenship certificates require separate applications
- Expired passports cannot be used for travel (even if within 15-year issuance)
- Name discrepancies between documents require legal name change process
- Military personnel have special application procedures
Compliance Checklist
| ✓ | Verify passport expiry date (6+ months validity recommended) |
| ✓ | Check entry requirements for transit countries |
| ✓ | Register foreign-born children proof of citizenship |