familiarize yourself with what the Canadian government considers a "serious offense." If you have committed one, the Canadian government could deny you a passport. A "serious offense" includes crimes such as terrorist activities, smuggling, trafficking in people, kidnapping, sexual offenses against children and attacks against the Crown. These are not automatic grounds for denial of issuance of a passport but are considerations taken by the Passport Canada's Security Bureau when deciding whether a passport will be issued are not to someone with a criminal background.
Access the Passport Canada website and download the PPTC application. Print this out and use it as reference when gathering your documents for application.
You must provide proof of Canadian citizenship; either a Certificate of Birth in Canada or a Certificate of Canadian Citizenship. The latter can be obtained from either the office of the Registrar of Canadian Citizenship in Canada, or any Canadian government office abroad.
Include a document that supports your identity. This can be a regional government-issued ID, like a driver's license, or a social security card.
Include two passport-sized photos with your application. These can be obtained at most photo shops and travel agencies. There are specific qualities and guarantees that the photos must have so make sure it is done by a professional who specializes in passport photos.
Have a guarantor who you have known for at least two years complete the section of the application designated for him or her.
Complete the application and include the copy of your criminal record. Applications can be submitted by mail or in person. You will receive a written decision by mail regarding the status of your application that will alert you to any decision by Passport Canada to launch an investigation to determine if your criminal past bars you from being issued a passport.
