Dependent passport # for application

[jenni_usa]

I noticed on the first form I just started filling out that it asks for passport info for spouse and dependents. We have toddler and do not yet have a passport for her (we are from the US). Is it necessary to have her passport first before applying or can I use her birth certificate? I just never thought about that and it looks like it takes 4-6 weeks to get a passport for her and I was hoping to send in our immigration paperwork by the first week in August! I tried emailing the Buffalo office, but they just gave me a link to the forms site.

Also, is Buffalo the ONLY office in the USA to send your immigration paperwork to? Thanks!

 

[jenni_usa]

On my question about the Buffalo office, I actually just noticed on the web site for skilled workers that you mail your application to the Centralized Intake Office (for skilled workers) in Nova Scotia and not the immigration office of your country of residence. I wonder if processing times are better for skilled workers??

 

[aanbaan]

Option 1) what's the rush? get the passport first and then apply for PR.
Option 2) make your child non-accompanying in the application. Don't send the $150 for her now and write an explanation that you don't have a passport yet and intend to include your toddler in the final application. Apply for the passport ASAP.