The new 10-year ePassport is now available to Canadians.  The old passports are still acceptable until expiry.

“The new, 10-year ePassport provides more convenience for Canadians, and facilitates safe, secure travel which, in turn, helps create jobs, growth and long-term prosperity for Canadians,” said Citizenship, Immigration and Multiculturalism Minister Jason Kenney.

ePassports contain technologically-advanced features, including an embedded electronic chip, to prevent fraud. The chip stores the same personal information as that which is recorded on the second page of the passport (except for the signature) as well as a photo and a digital security feature that proves that the passport was issued by the Government of Canada. To combat fraud, once the personal information is stored on the chip, it cannot be modified without invalidating the passport.

The new ePassport features iconic images that celebrate our history and culture, such as Robert Harris’s painting of the Fathers of Confederation; a depiction of the last spike completing the Canadian Pacific Railway in 1885; as well as and a picture of Pier 21 in Halifax – one of the most significant ports of entry for newly-arrived immigrants between 1928 and 1971, and now a National Historic Site.

At $160, a 10-year passport costs less per year than the previous cost of a 5-year passport.

In addition, the new fee structure comes into effect July 2, which will enable the government to continue providing its citizens with one of the world’s most secure and internationally respected passports in a timely manner.

Also, effective on July 2, Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) has assumed primary responsibility for Passport Canada.  Previously, it was part of the Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade.

This move is in line with the duties CIC already performs, such as admitting permanents residents, promoting the rights and responsibilities of citizenship, and determining Canadian citizenship.