A Single Parent's Guide to Child Passports in Ontario
Planning a trip but facing a paperwork nightmare? Learn when you need your ex's signature, how to apply with 'Sole Custody,' and what to do if the other parent refuses to sign.
Key takeaways
Planning a trip but facing a paperwork nightmare? Learn when you need your ex's signature, how to apply with 'Sole Custody,' and what to do if the other parent refuses to sign.
Legal Review: This passport guide was reviewed by Deepa Tailor, Senior Family Lawyer, to ensure compliance with Passport Canada regulations and Ontario Family Court procedures (2026).
The General Rule: YES. Passport Canada typically requires signatures from both biological parents (or legal guardians) listed on the birth certificate.
The Exception: You can apply alone ONLY if you have a valid Court Order (not just a separation agreement) granting you 'Sole Decision-Making' AND specifically stating the other parent has no rights regarding passport application. If you don't have this order, and the other parent refuses to sign, you must go to court to get one.
Both parents sign the application. One acts as the 'Applicant,' the other signs as 'Other Parent.' This is the fastest route.
You have a Court Order granting Sole Decision-Making. You submit the application alone, attaching the certified court order.
The other parent exists but refuses to sign out of spite. Passport Canada will reject your application. Remedy: Court Motion to Dispense with Consent.
The other parent cannot be found. You may need to submit form PPTC 116 (Statutory Declaration) proving you have tried to locate them.
Bureaucracy is strict. Don't get rejected at the counter.
Status:
Often Rejected
Why:
A private contract is not a court order. Even if it says you have custody, Passport agents may still demand the other parent's signature to avoid liability.
Status:
Accepted
Why:
A judge's order overrides parental rights. We draft orders with specific 'Passport Clauses' directing the government to issue the document without the ex's signature.
We send a formal legal letter asking them to sign the application by a specific date. This proves you tried to be reasonable.
We file a motion in Family Court asking for an order 'Dispensing with Consent' for the passport.
Because their refusal was unreasonable, we ask the judge to order them to pay your legal fees for the motion.
Getting the passport is Step 1. You may also need a court order allowing you to travel without a notarized consent letter from the ex.
Senior Family Lawyer
Deepa Tailor is the founder of Tailor Law. She helps single parents overcome bureaucratic roadblocks, securing the court orders needed to obtain passports and travel freely with their children.
View Full BioDon't let bureaucratic delays ruin your family vacation. Get the legal authority you need to apply for your child's passport.
Book Your Passport Strategy SessionGenerally every person with decision-making responsibility must consent. A single parent can apply alone with a court order granting sole decision-making, or documents showing the other parent’s consent is not required.
You may need a court order authorizing the passport, or proof of sole decision-making responsibility. Passport Canada reviews these situations carefully.
Not if both parents consent. A court order helps where the other parent refuses, is absent, or where there are concerns about international travel.