When applying for a Canadian passport, the references you provide must be individuals who have known you personally for at least two years and who are not related to you by birth or marriage. They are neither your relatives nor your guarantor.
Specifically, the references must:
- Be 18 years of age or older.
- Have known you for at least two years.
- Agree to have their contact information provided for verification purposes.
In the references section on the passport application form, you will need to provide references information as follows:
- Name
- Address
- Telephone
- Relationship to the applicant
- Number of years known each other
These Canadian passport references can be
- friends
- neighbours
- co-workers
- other individuals who meet the criteria and are willing to provide accurate information if contacted by Passport Canada
Let us help you apply for a new adult Canadian passport.
Get more information about Who can be a Canadian passport guarantor.
