Before applying, find out the type and format of the document required by contacting the organization to which you must submit it.
Documents:
Short Form Birth Certificate (wallet size):
The Short Form Birth Certificate is required when applying for an adult Canadian passport. It contains basic information: full name of individual, date of birth, place of birth, sex, registration date and registration number.
Long Form Birth Certificate (paper size 8.5 x 7”):
The Long Form Birth Certificate contains all the information as stated above, plus the names of parents and birthplaces of parents (province/country only).
When submitting an application concerning the birth of a minor, we recommend requesting the Long Form Birth Certificate, as it includes the parents' names. Some organizations require this type of certificate in the case of minors.
Restricted Photocopy:
A Restricted Photocopy is a copy of the original Registration of Birth and is usually required for legal purposes. A Restricted Photocopy can only be issued if authorized by the Registrar General of Vital Statistics or on the order of a court.