What Is a Guarantor and When Do You Need One?

A Guarantor is someone who can confirm your identity and validate your application for certain government documents, such as a Canadian passport. You’ll typically be asked to provide a guarantor when applying for your first passport, a child’s passport, or if you’re replacing a lost, stolen, or expired document.

The guarantor plays an important role—they sign your application form, certify your photo, and may be contacted by Passport Canada to confirm your relationship.

To qualify as a guarantor, the individual must be a Canadian citizen who holds a valid Canadian passport and has known you personally for at least two years. They must also be available to answer questions about your identity if necessary. Many people assume they can ask anyone they know, but the reality is not everyone qualifies. If you’ve recently moved, don’t have close contacts in Canada, or don’t know someone who meets all the criteria, it can be difficult to find a suitable guarantor.

What If I Don’t Have a Guarantor?

If you are unable to find someone who qualifies as a guarantor, you are allowed to apply using a Statutory Declaration in Lieu of Guarantor, also known as Form PPTC 132. This form allows you to legally declare your identity in front of a Notary public or commissioner of oaths, who will then sign and stamp the form for official use. This is not just a formality—it replaces the need for a guarantor entirely and is accepted by Passport Canada as a valid alternative.

At Dodo Notary, we provide this service for individuals in Brampton and surrounding areas. Our team is experienced in handling In Lieu of Guarantor declarations, and we ensure the process is quick, accurate, and stress-free.

What Does “In Lieu of Guarantor” Mean?

“In Lieu of Guarantor” literally means “instead of a guarantor.” It is a legal declaration that serves the same purpose as having a guarantor but is used when you don’t have anyone available who meets the necessary requirements. The document you will fill out—Form PPTC 132—requires you to swear in front of a notary public that the information you’re providing is accurate and true. You will also need to provide two references who can confirm your identity, but these individuals are not subject to the same strict rules as a guarantor.

Who Can Be Your References on the PPTC 132 Form?

Unlike guarantors, references do not need to be Canadian citizens or passport holders. They must, however, be at least 18 years old, have known you personally for at least two years, and not be family members or people living in the same household. References can be colleagues, friends, neighbours, or anyone else who can reasonably confirm who you are. They don’t have to sign anything—they just need to be listed on your form and be willing to answer a phone call from Passport Canada if contacted.

How Dodo Notary in Brampton Can Help

At Dodo Notary, we offer professional In Lieu of Guarantor services at our Brampton office. We are licensed to notarize Form PPTC 132 and can also help guide you through the process if you're unsure how to complete the form. Our appointments are quick—usually taking under 15 minutes—and we accept both walk-ins and online bookings through Calendly. We also offer online notary services for clients who can’t make it to our physical office.

Book an Appointment with Dodo Notary Today

If you’re in Brampton and don’t have a guarantor, let Dodo Notary help you move forward. Our certified notary public will ensure your Statutory Declaration in Lieu of Guarantor is completed properly, so your passport application isn't delayed or rejected.