Your passport is one of the most important and hard to replace personal documents that you own. And it is valuable – not just to you, but also to the thieves who would sell it on the black market. A stolen passport can be used to commit a crime or impersonate you, with serious consequences.

Don't let your passport fall into the wrong hands! Here are some tips:

  • Your passport should be locked up, unless you need to bring it with you for a specific purpose.
  • In fact, carry only the ID that you need at any time. Keep all other identification (ie. SIN card, birth certificate, and passport) locked in a safe place.
  • Travel within Canada does not require a passport – leave it at home.
  • If you do need to carry your passport with you, be sure to make two photocopies of the identification page. Leave one with a friend or at home (in a secure place); bring the second with you and store it separately from the original. This can help identify you if your passport is stolen, lost or damaged.
  • NEVER leave personal information lying around at home, in your hotel room, in your vehicle or at the office.

Replacing a lost or stolen passport is not a simple process and will likely take months, especially if the government decides to conduct an investigation into the loss.

A passport will only be replaced if strict requirements are met, which include new photos, fees, proof of citizenship and a signed declaration that your passport was stolen, lost or damaged.

Protection Power has resources and tools to help you prevent identity theft. Find out more here.