THE PASSPORT OFFICE NOW KNOWN AS PASSPORT CANADA

News Release

Gatineau, Quebec -- Canada's Passport Office has a new name. Effective immediately, the organization will be known as Passport Canada. "With 33 offices from British Columbia to Newfoundland and Labrador, and as an organization with both national and international responsibilities, the new name more aptly reflects the role Passport Canada plays in the lives of Canadians," said Foreign Affairs Minister Pierre Pettigrew. The demand for passport services has increased substantially over the last few years. In fiscal year 2003-2004, more than 10,000 passports were issued across the country each business day. Passport Canada forecasts over three million passports will be issued this fiscal year. "Passport Canada remains committed to ensuring the security and integrity of the Canadian passport, while providing efficient and timely services to Canadians," added Doreen Steidle, Passport Canada Chief Executive Officer. "The Canadian passport is recognized worldwide as an accepted proof of Canadian citizenship." In an effort to facilitate and accelerate the passport application process for travelling Canadians, Passport Canada strongly recommends that Canadians who wish to obtain their passports within ten working days submit their application in person at a Passport Canada office. Passport applications can also be mailed to Passport Canada, with a turnaround time of 20 working days upon receipt of the completed application. Applications may also be submitted through one of the 51 Canada Post receiving agent outlets, with a processing time for completed applications of 15 working days. Passport applicants will find a complete checklist to help identify the steps in the passport application process at www.ppt.gc.ca, or by calling our toll free line at 1 800 567-6868. Passport Canada is a Special Operating Agency of Foreign Affairs Canada. Its mission is to facilitate travel for Canadians by delivering internationally respected travel documents that meet the highest security standards in the world. - 30 - Media Enquiries: (819) 934-3837 Public Enquiries: 1 800 567-6868

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Date modified:: 2005-03-07

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THE PASSPORT OFFICE NOW KNOWN AS PASSPORT CANADA

News Release

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