Renewing My Passport

[blooberry 3]

Hi all,

I really appreciate this VisaJourney website. It helps to know others are having similar experiences and that we can share our stories.

I have successfully moved to the United States from Canada. Our one year wedding anniversary was two weeks ago. :-) I have my Green Card (conditional Permanent Resident) and am holding a part-time job.

I apologize if my question is simple. This is posted to Regional Discussion: Canada, and also Your New Life in America. I am sorry if I am posting to an incorrect forum. But I've done a few internet searches and am not sure where to turn. Here is the situation:

I am concerned about my Canadian passport. It expires in April 2008. This is my first passport, so I've never had to go through the process of renewing it before.

-How do I renew my Canadian passport since I am now living in California?

Is there an application I need to fill out?

-Should I be anxious about sending my passport through the mail? (When I was originally issued a passport, I chose to do everything in person.)

-I now use my married name, and my passport was issued in my maiden name. I would like to change it to my married name.

-When applying for my initial passport, I had to show proof of citizenship with my ORIGINAL birth certificate.

Is this required again? Does the passport office accept copies, or is it originals only? I am loathe to send my original long-form birth certificate, particularly because USCIS has asked for it on a number of occasions. I don't ever want to let that baby out of my sight! :-) I have a shorter birth certificate (in laminated card form). Would that work?

-Also when applying for my initial passport, it required the signature of a "guarantor" -- someone in professional standing who has known me for a minimum of two years. (At the time, I used my doctor.) Is this again required? I haven't had opportunity to form professional contacts -- I haven't even BEEN here for two years yet! This worries me.

-Since my passport expires in April 2008, what timeframe is needed for processing? Should I renew it right away?

Thank you to all of those who read this. Suggestions and advice are welcome. I am grateful for any assistance.

Sincerely,

Lisa (and Brian) :-)

[Kez/JWolf 6]

You will find all your answers here http://www.ppt.gc.ca/usa/index.aspx?lang=e

Good Luck

Kezzie