Refugee Travel Document in Canada: Who Can Apply and How to Get One
By WelcomeAide Team
What Is a Refugee Travel Document?
A Refugee Travel Document, formally known as a Convention Travel Document (CTD), is a travel document issued by the Government of Canada to protected persons who are unable to obtain a passport from their country of nationality. It is issued under the terms of the 1951 United Nations Convention Relating to the Status of Refugees and serves as a substitute for a national passport for the purpose of international travel.
The CTD is a blue booklet that looks similar to a Canadian passport but is clearly marked as a Convention Travel Document. It is recognized by most countries around the world, though acceptance can vary, and some countries may require additional visas or documentation. Understanding the scope and limitations of this document is essential for refugees planning international travel.
For newcomers who arrived in Canada as refugees and have since obtained protected person status, this document may be your primary means of travelling internationally until you become a Canadian citizen and can apply for a Canadian passport. Learn more about the broader immigration journey in our guide on changing immigration status in Canada.
Who Can Apply for a Convention Travel Document?
Eligibility for a CTD is limited to specific categories of individuals in Canada. You must meet one of the following criteria:
Convention Refugees
If you have been determined to be a Convention refugee by the Immigration and Refugee Board of Canada (IRB) or have been recognized as a Convention refugee through the government-assisted or privately sponsored refugee programs, you are eligible to apply. Your status must be current and not subject to any cessation or vacation proceedings.
Persons in Need of Protection
Individuals who have been granted protection under section 97 of the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (IRPA) are also eligible. This includes persons who face a danger of torture, a risk to their life, or a risk of cruel and unusual treatment or punishment if returned to their country of origin.
Permanent Residents Who Were Formerly Protected Persons
If you obtained permanent residence in Canada on the basis of your protected person status, you remain eligible to apply for a CTD. However, once you become a Canadian citizen, you will no longer be eligible and must instead apply for a Canadian passport.
Restrictions on Travel with a CTD
While a Convention Travel Document allows you to travel internationally, there are important restrictions you must understand before planning any trip.
Travel to Your Country of Nationality
The most critical restriction is that you must not travel to the country from which you sought protection. Doing so can be considered evidence that you no longer need Canada's protection, which may lead to cessation of your refugee status under section 108 of IRPA. This applies even to brief visits, including for family emergencies.
Return to Canada Requirements
Your CTD is issued by Canada, and you must return to Canada before the document expires. If your document expires while you are abroad, you may face difficulties re-entering Canada and could need to contact a Canadian embassy for an emergency travel document. Always ensure your CTD has sufficient validity before departing.
Visa Requirements
Holding a Canadian CTD does not exempt you from visa requirements in other countries. Many countries that allow Canadian passport holders to enter visa-free may still require CTD holders to obtain a visa. Always check the visa requirements of your destination country well in advance. The Government of Canada travel documents page provides additional information on what to verify before travelling.
How to Apply for a Convention Travel Document
The application process involves gathering required documents, completing the application form, and submitting either in person or by mail.
Required Documents
- Completed application form (PPTC 190)
- Two passport-style photos meeting Canadian specifications
- Your Permanent Resident Card (if applicable) or your Protected Person Status Document (IMM 5292 or equivalent)
- Your previous CTD (if you are renewing)
- Proof of identity (such as a foreign national identity card, birth certificate, or other government-issued ID)
- Applicable fees
Application Methods
You can apply in person at a Service Canada office or passport office, or by mail through the Passport Program. In-person applications are recommended for faster processing and the ability to resolve any issues immediately.
Fees
The fees for a Convention Travel Document are the same as for a Canadian passport. For adults (16 and older), the fee is $160 for a document valid for up to 5 years. For children under 16, the fee is $57. Express and urgent processing fees may also apply. Check the current fee schedule for the latest amounts.
Processing Times and What to Expect
Processing times for Convention Travel Documents are generally similar to Canadian passport processing times, though they can sometimes take longer due to additional verification requirements.
Standard Processing
- In-person applications: approximately 20 business days
- Mail-in applications: approximately 20 business days plus mailing time in both directions
Express and Urgent Processing
Express and urgent processing may be available for CTDs at select passport offices. Express processing reduces the timeline to 2 to 9 business days at an additional cost of $50. Urgent processing (next business day) costs an additional $110 but is subject to availability and requires demonstrated urgent travel needs.
During peak travel seasons, processing times may be extended. Apply well in advance of your planned travel date. The IRCC processing times page provides current estimates.
Countries That Accept the Convention Travel Document
The CTD issued by Canada is recognized by most countries that are signatories to the 1951 Refugee Convention. However, recognition and visa-free access vary significantly from country to country.
Generally Accepted Regions
- Most European Union and Schengen Area countries (visa may still be required)
- United Kingdom
- United States (with a valid visa)
- Many Commonwealth nations
- Several countries in South America, Asia, and Africa
Countries That May Not Accept the CTD
Some countries do not recognize the Convention Travel Document or have additional requirements for CTD holders. Always verify directly with the embassy or consulate of your destination country before booking travel. Some countries may accept the document for entry but not for transit, so check all legs of your journey.
For travel to the United States, CTD holders generally need a valid U.S. visa. Canadian permanent residents holding a CTD may also benefit from programs like NEXUS, though eligibility varies. Learn more in our guide on applying for NEXUS and Global Entry.
Transitioning from CTD to Canadian Passport
The Convention Travel Document is a temporary measure. The long-term goal for most protected persons in Canada is to obtain Canadian citizenship and, subsequently, a Canadian passport. Here is the typical pathway:
- Obtain permanent residence based on your protected person status
- Fulfill the residency requirement for citizenship (1,095 days of physical presence in Canada within the 5 years before applying)
- Apply for Canadian citizenship
- After being granted citizenship, apply for a Canadian passport
Once you hold a Canadian passport, you will no longer need or be eligible for a CTD. A Canadian passport provides broader visa-free travel access and is valid for 10 years. For details on the passport application process, see our guide on Canadian passport renewal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I travel to the U.S. with a Convention Travel Document?
Yes, but you will generally need a valid U.S. visa. CTD holders are not eligible for the Visa Waiver Program (ESTA). Apply for a U.S. visa at the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate in Canada.
What happens if my CTD expires while I am abroad?
Contact the nearest Canadian embassy, consulate, or high commission immediately. They may issue an emergency travel document to allow you to return to Canada. Travelling on an expired CTD is not possible.
Can I renew my CTD?
Yes, you can renew your CTD before it expires by following the same application process. It is recommended to apply for renewal several months before the expiry date.
Final Thoughts on Refugee Travel Documents
The Convention Travel Document is a vital tool for protected persons in Canada who need to travel internationally. While it comes with certain restrictions, understanding these limitations and planning accordingly will help ensure smooth travel experiences. Remember that travelling to your country of nationality can have serious consequences for your status in Canada, and always verify visa requirements for your destination well in advance.
WelcomeAide is committed to helping refugees and protected persons navigate life in Canada. Use our AI Newcomer Navigator for personalized guidance on travel documents and immigration matters, explore our blog for more resources, learn about our mission, or discover how to get involved in supporting newcomer communities.