Celebrating Citizenship Week, Putting Canada First - Secure, 10-year ePassports Hit Major Milestone

TORONTO, Oct. 25, 2013 /CNW/ - Canada's Citizenship and Immigration Minister Chris Alexander today personally delivered the one millionth 10-year ePassport to Mark Walker of Mississauga, Ontario.

"The 10-year ePassport is the ultimate symbol of citizenship and has proven to be a huge success with Canadians," said Alexander. "This week at citizenship ceremonies from coast-to-coast many new Canadians are feeling the pride of citizenship and becoming eligible for the Canadian passport."

The new 10-year ePassport was launched on July 1. Our government projects we will issue more than 5.2 million passports this fiscal year alone.

"Canadians may be surprised at the sheer volume of passports issued in such a short period of time," said Alexander. "Despite an increase in demand following the release of the 10-year passport, we have continued to deliver these important documents on time and within our service standards. This level of service is a testament to the commitment and dedication of our employees who deliver these important documents to Canadians both at home and abroad."

Canada has 34 passport offices across the country and a network of approximately 200 Service Canada and Canada Post passport receiving agents that offer Canadians broad access to passport services. Canadians who travel or live outside of Canada can access travel document services through Government of Canada offices abroad.

Canadian Citizenship Week 2013 compels us to reflect on all that comes with being Canadian. For more information on Canada's Citizenship Week, including a list of citizenship ceremonies and events in your region, and details on organizing a reaffirmation ceremony, visit the Citizenship Week section of our website.

Building a stronger Canada: Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) strengthens Canada's economic, social and cultural prosperity, helping ensure Canadian safety and security while managing one of the largest and most generous immigration programs in the world.

SOURCE: Citizenship and Immigration Canada

For more information, please visit: www.passport.gc.ca

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For further information (media only), please contact:

Kevin Ménard
Minister's Office
Citizenship and Immigration Canada
613-954-1064

Media Relations 
Communications Branch
Passport Canada
819-934-3837
[email protected]