The Power of the Canadian Passport: A Comprehensive Guide

The Canadian passport is a symbol of pride and freedom for many Canadians. It is not just a travel document, but a key that opens doors to 172 countries without the need for a visa1. In this blog post, we will explore the power of the Canadian passport, its global ranking, the countries Canadians can travel to with and without a visa, and the process of applying for a Canadian passport.

The Global Ranking of the Canadian Passport

The Canadian passport is ranked 7th in the world according to the 2024 Passport Index. This high ranking is due to the degree of global entry it guarantees to Canadian passport holders. With such a powerful passport, Canadians enjoy the freedom to travel to numerous countries around the globe without the hassle of obtaining a visa.

Visa-Free Travel for Canadians

As of 2024, Canadian citizens can travel visa-free to 152 countries. This includes popular destinations such as the United States, Mexico, the United Kingdom, France, Bermuda, Jamaica, and the Dominican Republic.

In Europe, Canadians can enjoy visa-free travel to countries like Austria, Belgium, Croatia, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, the Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Ukraine, and the United Kingdom.

In Africa, Canadians can travel visa-free to countries like Angola, Botswana, Cape Verde, Gambia, Lesotho, Malawi, Mauritius, Morocco, Mozambique, Namibia, Rwanda, Senegal, South Africa, Tunisia, and Zambia.

In the Americas, Canadians can travel visa-free to countries like Antigua and Barbuda, Argentina, Bahamas, Barbados, Belize, Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Dominica, Dominican Republic, Ecuador, El Salvador, Grenada, Guatemala, Guyana, Haiti, Honduras, Jamaica, Mexico, Nicaragua, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Suriname, Trinidad and Tobago, United States, and Uruguay.

In Asia, Canadians can travel visa-free to countries like Brunei, Georgia, Israel, Japan, Kazakhstan, and Kyrgyzstan.

Countries Requiring Visa or eVisa for Canadians

While the Canadian passport allows visa-free travel to many countries, there are still some countries that require a visa or an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA). These include countries like Azerbaijan, Benin, Bhutan, Cameroon, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Ivory Coast, Djibouti, Equatorial Guinea, Gabon, Guinea, Libya, Myanmar, Nigeria, Papua New Guinea, South Sudan, Togo, Uganda, and Vietnam.

Applying for a Canadian Passport

Applying for a Canadian passport is a straightforward process. Here are the steps:

Complete the form: Download the adult passport application (PPTC 153) from the official website. Fill out the form on your computer, sign each page, and include your email address for easy status checking.

Gather all necessary documents and get your passport photos: You will need proof of Canadian citizenship, any valid Canadian passport or other travel document issued to you, a document to support your identity, and two identical passport photos.

Find two references: These individuals must have known you for at least two years and be willing to confirm your identity.

Pay the fees: The cost of a passport depends on the type of passport you apply for and where you apply.

Submit your application: You can submit your application in person at a passport office or by mail.

Remember, the Canadian passport is a valuable document. Keep it safe, and happy travels!