New CDN Passport

From Passport Canada:

"Changes coming soon to the Canadian passport program"

New ePassport, 10-year validity for adult passports, a new fee structure

This year, changes are coming to the passport program that will benefit Canadians and help keep Canada at the forefront of international travel document security.

As of July 1, 2013:

1. Canada’s new 36-page ePassport becomes available through all service channels.
2. A new fee structure takes effect.
3. Applicants age 16 and over can apply for a 10-year passport (a 5-year passport will also be offered, and all children's passports will be issued with a maximum of 5-year validity).

Here is some advice to help with your passport application

• Apply during quieter periods. Early in the morning on a Wednesday or Thursday tends to be less busy in the Passport Canada offices.
• Save time and avoid mistakes. Complete your application form on your computer and then print it out once completed. The fillable PDF application forms are interactive and can help you avoid errors. Doing this may also save you time in the passport office as the barcode can be quickly scanned with the information you have entered.
• Double check. Make sure your application form is complete and you have all of the required documentation – including proof of parentage for child applications.

No changes to application requirements

Application requirements will not change with the new ePassport; however, the application forms will be modified to reflect the new fee structure and give adult applicants the choice between a 5-year or a 10-year passport. These new forms will be posted online on July 1, 2013.

Canadians have told us they are looking forward to the new 10-year passport, so we may encounter higher application volumes in July.

  ^ Finally, Canada has joined the rest of the world with a biometric passport. It's nice that they now also have a 10 year validity. ^

http://www.ppt.gc.ca/articles/20130510.aspx?lang=eng