GTAA Pass Permit Control Office

New employees must follow the steps outlined below. Please refer to the Documents and Forms section for a summary of requirements.

 

Apply for Transport Canada Transportation Security Clearance

As an employee at the airport, you must apply for a Transportation Security Clearance (TSC) to obtain a Restricted Area Identity Card (RAIC). TSC is conducted by Transport Canada and must be renewed every five years.

 

You must complete the onboarding process with your employer. Your employer will initiate your TSC application via the Transportation Security Service (TSS) platform, and you will receive an invitation from your Signing Authority to apply for TSC. Please note that the invitation is only valid for 4 days. You will be required to upload documents to the TSS platform. Make sure to follow instructions when uploading documents to avoid delays in processing times.

 

You must schedule an appointment at the Pass Permit Control Office only once the status of your request on the TSS platform states “Verification appointment.” If your application shows any other status, you will not be processed at your appointment and your appointment will be cancelled. You will be required to contact your Signing Authority for additional assistance.

 

We highly recommend booking an appointment before coming to the Pass Permit Control Office.

Tutorial - Two-Step authenticator v4 March 2025

 

Complete Airport Security and Safety Awareness Training

Complete your Airport Security and Safety Awareness Training

 

Proof of completed training will be provided in the form of a confirmation email, which you print and bring to your Pass Permit Control Office appointment. Please ensure that you have entered your legal name and a valid email address when starting the course. Course completion must occur within six months of your pass office appointment.

 

During your TSC application process, you will be required to complete a 10-minute quiz based on the training course. Should you be unsuccessful, you will be able to rewrite the quiz after 24 hours.

 

What to bring to your initial pass office appointment

• NEW! A Canadian Criminal Record Check signed and dated by a company Signing Authority within three months of their pass office appointment, or a valid Nexus/Global Entry Card.
• All original documents you uploaded with your application (e.g., signed passport, proof of study, etc.). If you are unsure, bring all your original documents.
• Completed application for Restricted Area Identity Card (RAIC). This form is only valid up to 90 days after your employer’s signature.
• Completed Keycard application. This form is only valid up to 30 days after your employer’s signature.
• Proof of completion of Airport Security and Safety Awareness Training.

 

At your appointment, you will be asked to sign the RAIC Terms and Conditions.

 

Your second pass office appointment

 

At your initial appointment, the Pass Office will submit all your required information to Transport Canada for processing.

 

Please note that processing times can vary—from just a few days to over a year—depending on whether additional documentation or clarification is required. If Transport Canada requests further information, please ensure it is submitted as soon as possible to avoid delays.

 

Once your clearance is approved, you will receive two separate emails:

• An email from Transport Canada via the TSS Platform.
• An email from the Pass Permit Control Office sent to the email address you provided.

 

Please proceed to book your second appointment only after receiving the email from the Pass Permit Control Office. For your second appointment, please bring:

• Your completed RAIC form signed, (for all companies if you are employed by more than one) and Keycard application, if applicable. 
• All security items issued during your initial visit.

 

You do not need to bring your personal documents, such as passport, birth certificate, or citizenship card to the second appointment. 

 

Important Information for Your Appointment 

To help ensure a smooth enrollment process, please review the following guidelines before your visit: 

• Avoid applying any substances to your hands — such as hand cream, hand sanitizer or henna — prior to your appointment, as these can interfere with fingerprint scanning. 
• Head coverings may need to be temporarily adjusted or removed during the process, unless worn for religious reasons. 
• Please do not wear colored contact lenses, as they may affect eye scans or other biometric procedures. 

 

For existing employees with a Restricted Area Identity Card (RAIC), Transportation Security Clearance (TSC) must be renewed every five years, along with their Airport Security and Safety Awareness Training.

 

Please follow the steps outlined below and refer to the Documents and Forms section for a summary of requirements.

 

Renew your TSC

When renewing your TSC, we recommend that you start the process six months before the expiry date.

 

Applicants will receive an invitation from their Signing Authority to apply for a TSC. Once completed, schedule an appointment at the Pass Permit Control Office only once the status of your request on the Transportation Security Service (TSS) platform states “Verification appointment.” If your application shows any other status, you will not be processed at your appointment and your appointment will be cancelled; you will be required to contact your Signing Authority for additional assistance.

 

We highly recommend booking an appointment before coming to the Pass Permit Control Office.

Tutorial - Two-Step authenticator v4 March 2025

 

Renew your Airport Security and Safety Awareness Training

Complete your Airport Security and Safety Awareness Training

 

Proof of completed training will be provided as a confirmation email, which you print and bring to your Pass Permit Control Office appointment. Please ensure that you have entered your legal name and a valid email address when starting the course. Course completion must occur within the six months prior to your pass office appointment.

 

During your TSC application process, you will be required to complete a 10-minute quiz based on the training course. Should you be unsuccessful, you will be able to rewrite the quiz after 24 hours.

 

What to bring to your initial pass office appointment

• Only if your TSC has expired or expires within 3 weeks: A Canadian Criminal Record Check signed and dated by a company Signing Authority within three months of your pass office appointment, or a valid Nexus/Global Entry Card.
• All original documents uploaded with your application (e.g., signed passport, proof of study, etc.). If unsure, bring all your documents.
• Completed application for Restricted Area Identity Card (RAIC). This form is only valid up to 90 days after your employer’s signature.
• Completed Keycard application. This form is only valid up to 30 days after your employer’s signature.
• Proof of completion of Airport Security and Safety Awareness Training.

 

At your appointment, you will be asked to sign the RAIC Terms and Conditions.

 

Your second pass office appointment

Once your TSC is approved, you will receive two separate emails:

• An email from Transport Canada via the TSS Platform. 
• An email from the Pass Permit Control Office sent to the email address you provided. 

 

Please proceed to book your second appointment only after receiving the email from the Pass Permit Control Office. For your second appointment, please bring:

• Your completed RAIC form signed, (for all companies if you are employed by more than one) and Keycard application, if applicable. 
• All security items issued during your initial visit.

 

You do not need to bring your personal documents, such as passport, birth certificate, or citizenship card to the second appointment.

 

Important Information for Your Appointment 

To help ensure a smooth enrollment process, please review the following guidelines before your visit: 

• Avoid applying any substances to your hands — such as hand cream, hand sanitizer or henna — prior to your appointment, as these can interfere with fingerprint scanning.
• Head coverings may need to be temporarily adjusted or removed during the process, unless worn for religious reasons. 
• Please do not wear colored contact lenses, as they may affect eye scans or other biometric procedures. 

 

Employees who are returning to work at Toronto Pearson after being away for less than two years or transferring from a different Canadian airport must follow the steps outlined below. Please refer to the Documents and Forms section [insert link to section below] for a summary of requirements. 

Returning Employees 

For employees returning to Toronto Pearson after being away for less than two years and who still hold a valid Transportation Security Clearance (TSC), the process requires coordination with the employer and the Pass Permit Control Office. 

If your Restricted Area Identity Card (RAIC) has expired or you have been gone for more than two years, a new TSC is needed through the Transportation Security Service (TSS) platform. Follow the new employee process above. 

Key steps for returning employees with valid a TSC 

 

1. Company sponsorship required 
   
   • You must be sponsored by your new or returning employer. 
2. No need to reapply for TSC 
   
   • If your TSC is valid and not expired, you do not need to reapply through the Transportation Security Service (TSS) platform. 
3. Visit to the Pass Permit Control Office 
   
   • You must schedule an appointment and bring with you: 
   •  
   • A completed and signed RAIC application and Keycard application. 
   • Valid government-issued ID. 
   • Proof of completion of Airport Security and Safety Awareness Training. 
4. Criminal record check 
   
   • A Canadian Criminal Record Check (CCRC) dated within three months will be required if your RAIC has expired.  

 

Transferring Employees 

For employees transferring from another airport and who currently hold a Restricted Area Identity Card (RAIC) and Transportation Security Clearance (TSC), their company may request a transfer to Toronto Pearson by emailing a completed and signed RAIC application to the Pass Permit Control Office at pass.permits@gtaa.com. 

Key steps for transferring employees with a valid TSC 

• To avoid requiring a Canadian Criminal Record Check (CCRC), the employer mus t notify the Pass Permit Control Office at least seven business days in advance. This allows time for the transfer to be coordinated with Transport Canada. If the employee’s RAIC expires during the process or if a temporary Security Control Pass is requested, the employee must provide either a CCRC dated within the last three months or a valid Nexus/Global Entry card. 
• The Signing Authority must ensure the employee has completed all three modules of the Airport Security and Safety Awareness Training prior to submitting the request. 
• Ensure the name on the RAIC application matches the employee’s legal name as stated on their birth certificate, permanent resident card, citizenship certificate, or immigration document. The application should also include the employee’s company email address. 
• The Pass Permit Control Office will request the file transfer with Transport Canada. This process can take up to seven days. Once completed, the employee may book an appointment at the Toronto Pearson Pass Permit Control Office for RAIC issuance. 
• The employee must return their RAIC to the other Canadian airport's issuance office and obtain a cancellation confirmation or return receipt before coming to our office. 

 

The employee must bring the following to their Pass Permit Control appointment: 

 

• A signed RAIC application (completed by the company’s Signing Authority). 
• Original government-issued photo ID. 
• Proof of completion of Airport Security and Safety Awareness Training.   

 

Canada Pass is located on the Restricted Area Identity Card (RAIC) that grants access to multiple airports in Canada. Special approval is required to obtain this pass. 

 

• A formal request must be sent to the Pass Permit Control Office by the primary Signing Authority, and the request will be reviewed for approval. 
• Employees seeking this RAIC must meet specific requirements to qualify for a Canada Pass. 

Documents

Before attending your initial appointment at the Pass Permit Control Office, please ensure you have completed your applications and bring all your required documents. Refer to the tables below.

Forms and Identification Documents Required for TSC Appointments

Status	TSC Online Application	Canadian Criminal Record Check (CCRC)	Birth Certificate	Passport (Photo + Stamped Pages)	Record of Landing / Confirmation of PR	Citizenship Certificate	Work or Study Permit
Canadian Born Citizen	YES	YES	YES	NO	NO	NO	NO
Canadian Citizen Born Outside Canada	YES	YES	NO	YES	NO	YES	NO
Permanent Resident	YES	YES	NO	YES	YES	NO	NO
Temporary Resident	YES	YES	NO	YES	NO	NO	YES
Refugee Claimant	YES	YES	NO	YES	NO	NO	YES
No Status / Undocumented	YES	YES	NO	YES	NO	NO	NO

Pass Office Appointment - Requirements for Returning & Transferring Employees

Forms

• Application for Restricted Area Identity Card
• Application for Additional Keycard Access
• Application Form for Transportation Security Clearance – Police officers only
• Application Form for Transportation Security Clearance – Government of Canada employees with Secret Clearance only
• Application for Airside Vehicle Operators Permit

Booking Appointments

Types of Appointments

Please select the correct appointment type to avoid delays. Incorrect bookings may require rescheduling based on availability.

1. Transportation Security Clearance
   • New Employee: For first-time RAIC applications. All forms must be completed and signed by the Signing Authority before submission.
   • Existing Employee: For RAIC renewals. Renewal forms must be signed and submitted before the current RAIC expires.
2. Extend Security Control Pass
   • Extend a valid Security Control Pass "Yellow Pass". If expired, a RAIC and Keycard application is required for your visit.
3. RAIC
   • RAIC - Working for a Single (one) Company: For employees transitioning from a temporary pass to a permanent RAIC for one employer at Toronto Pearson. RAIC and Keycard application required.
   • RAIC - Multi-Company: For employees working for multiple companies or roles. RAIC applications must be printed and signed by the Signing Authority for each company.
   • RAIC - Transfer to Pearson: For employees moving from another Canadian airport to Toronto Pearson. RAIC and Keycard application required.
   • RAIC - Replacement: For employees replacing their RAICs due to damage or worn RAIC IDs.
4. Keycard Only
   • For additional access when you already have a RAIC. Keycard application required.
5. AVOP
   • Requires a valid driver’s license and AVOP application.
6. ACO
   • S Card: Access Control Officer ID. Must have completed training and testing successfully.

 

Before coming to the Pass Permit Control Office, we highly recommend booking an appointment via Book Here. 

 

Walk-ins are welcome from Tuesday to Thursday, subject to availability. Appointments are required on Mondays and Fridays.

 

When scheduling your appointment, please take a moment to review the list of available services and select the one that best matches your needs.

 

IMPORTANT: Booking the wrong service may result in delays. If we’re unable to accommodate you due to an incorrect selection, you may be rescheduled for another day, depending on availability.

 

Group appointments: Employers who would like to book a billable group appointment, please contact the Pass Permit Control Office at billables@gtaa.com. 

Hours of Operation: Monday to Friday, 7 a.m. - 7:30 p.m.

We are closed on the second Thursday of each month and on all statutory holidays.

Location: Terminal 1 Express Parking Garage, Level 5 (6301 Silver Dart Dr, Mississauga ON L5P 1B2).

Contact: pass.permits@gtaa.com 

Driving Directions

• If you are driving to the Pass Permit Control Office, follow signs to Terminal 1 and then Departures. The Terminal 1 Parking Garage is on the left.
• Once you arrive at the Terminal 1 Parking Garage, please enter through the Express Park lane. Please take a ticket, drive toward columns H and J, and try to park near columns 5-21.
• Once parked, follow signs to the Terminal and then to the Pass Permit Control Office.
• Please bring your parking ticket with you to the pass office. We will provide you with a voucher to cover your parking fees.

Directions from inside Terminal 1

• If you are already in Terminal 1, make your way towards the Booster Juice located on the Mezzanine level (between Departures and Arrivals).
• Follow signs to Parking and make your way over the bridge. Follow signs to the Pass Office.

Directions from the UP Express / Terminal Link Train

• When arriving via the UP Express or the Terminal Link Train, take the escalator down one floor. 
• Follow signs to the Pass Office.

Business Agreement Requirement with GTAA

To operate at Toronto Pearson, your company must have a formal agreement with the GTAA. This may include a License to Operate, Contract, Lease, or other approved documentation.

All submitted documentation is subject to review by the GTAA to ensure compliance with established safety and security standards. Please note that approval is granted solely at the discretion of the GTAA.

Visit our website for more information about partnering with us and operating at Pearson.

Create and Manage an Employer Account

If your business or organization has a formal business agreement with the GTAA and your employees require access to restricted areas (such as terminals or airside locations), you'll need to set up an account with the Pass Permit Control Office.

We work with all types of employers, including small businesses, contractors and large service providers that support airport operations.

Getting Started: Setting Up Your Account

As a new employer at Toronto Pearson, your first step is to create an account with the Pass Permit Control Office. Once approved, your employees can apply for the following as required:

• Transportation Security Clearance (TSC)
• Restricted Area Identity Cards (RAIC)
• Security Control Cards
• Keycards
• Airside Vehicle Operator Permits (AVOP)

 

What You’ll Need to Submit

To set up your account, please email the following documents to the Pass Permit Control Office at passofficeadminassist@gtaa.com.

1. Letter of Intent (on Company Letterhead including address and contact information)

Your letter should explain why your employees require access to restricted areas. Please be as specific as possible, and ensure the letter includes:

• A copy of your GTAA contract number, license to operate number, or airline-approved application for entry (with valid agreement dates).
• A brief description of the work or services your company provides and your primary client (e.g., GTAA, an airline, or airport tenant).
• Restricted areas requested (e.g., Terminal 1, Terminal 3, or airside).
• Frequency of access (e.g., daily, weekly, monthly).
• Justification for access: types of access required (e.g., RAIC, keycards) and specific doors or areas.
• Number of employees needing access.
• Full name, title and email of your designated Signing Authorities for RAICs, keycards, and AVOPs (if applicable).
• Signature of company authority that can bind the organization.

Important: All account requests are reviewed carefully. Employer accounts will only be approved once all security requirements have been met.

Designated Signing Authority Responsibilities

Each employer must assign at least one Signing Authority, who will serve as the primary contact with the Pass Permit Control Office. This person is responsible for:

• Verifying employment.
• Managing the issuance, control, and return of all security items for your employees.  Employees must be on your payroll.  Subcontractors are not permitted.
• All designated Signing Authorities must complete mandatory training, and you will be required to sign off on Signing Authority Roles and Responsibilities on site.
• Authorizing payment of a non-refundable administration fee to the GTAA for any employee security items that are not returned when no longer needed, or as a result of the GTAA Audit Process.

We recommend assigning two Signing Authorities with one acting as the main point of contact. Additional details will be shared during training.

 

Adding a Signing Authority 

Requests to add or remove a company signing authority must be submitted by the primary signing authority. 

To add a company Signing Authority(s): 

• Submit a Certificate of Appointment - Signing Authority form to SigningAuthority@gtaa.com and bring the original form in. 

If the application is approved, the designated company Signing Authority will be invited to complete online training. Once completed, they will attend the Pass Permit Control Office.  

* Please note that the Signing Authority must either hold a valid TSC Clearance or be in the process of applying for one. *  

Removing a Signing Authority 

To remove a company Signing Authority(s):

• Submit a Certificate of Appointment - Signing Authority form to SigningAuthority@gtaa.com. 

 

 

2. Articles of Incorporation

Include a copy of your company’s Articles of Incorporation as part of your submission.

 

Making Changes to Your Account

If you are changing your company name, you must notify the Pass Permit Control Office. Before your account can be updated, a company audit will be conducted. Any outstanding Failed to Return security items must be resolved. The following documentation is required to proceed with the update:

1. Letter of Intent (on new company letterhead)

• This letter must explain the name change (old to new). Details regarding access requirements (has it potentially changed) and a list of all Signing Authorities with titles and emails must be provided. If there are any new Signing Authorities, please highlight their names in the document. Any newly appointed Signing Authority must complete mandatory training before their signature can be registered.
  1. Articles of Incorporation (for the new company name)

Fees

Administrative fees apply to account changes involving updates to security items:

• Change to Employer's Name or Occupation: $100.00 + HST per employee (paid by employer)

During the company audit, the employer will review its employee roster, identify employees that no longer require restricted airside access and return security items.  Once completed, we will invoice the employer for any outstanding items at the following non-refundable rates:

• RAIC: $300 + HST per item
• Keycard: $100 + HST per item
• AVOP: $100 + HST per item
• Vehicle Marker(s)/Vehicle Plate(s): $100 + HST per item

 

Vehicle markers

If employees require vehicle access to airside areas while performing job-related duties, the employer must register each vehicle with the GTAA to receive a vehicle marker.

To show proof of insurance, each vehicle driven airside by employees must have a vehicle marker. See our AVOP requirements for more information.

To request vehicle markers, please email the following documents to the Pass Permit Control Office at vehiclemarker@gtaa.com:

• Completed Restricted Area Vehicle Marker Application
• Two clear photos of the vehicle showing:
• Corporate Signage
• Beacon

• Inspection report, if applicable
• A copy of the vehicle ownership or bill of sale/lading

All lost/stolen/damaged/suspended Airside Restricted Area Vehicle Marker(s)are subject to an administration fee.

Returning Security Items

If you no longer require your security items—due to resignation, termination, leave (short- or long-term), transfer, maternity leave or similar circumstances—please ensure all items issued by the Pass Permit Control Office are returned either to your employer or preferably, directly to the Pass Permit Control Office.

This includes both valid and expired items such as:

• Restricted Area Identity Card (RAIC)
• Keycard
• Temporary pass
• Airside Vehicle Operator Permit (AVOP)
• Vehicle marker
• Access Control Officer (ACO) card

No appointment is needed for returning security items.

Reporting Lost Security Items

If any of your security items such as your RAIC, Temporary Security Control Pass, Keycard, AVOP, etc., are lost, stolen, or misplaced, you must:

• Report it immediately to your employer and the Pass Permit Control Office at pass.permits@gtaa.com.
• Complete the application form for the security item that was lost or stolen and visit the Pass Permit Control Office during operating hours for a replacement.

Important: If any of your security items such as your RAIC, Security Card, Key Cards, AVOP, etc., are stolen, you must file a police report and obtain a report number. Failure to provide a police report will subject you to the lost fee.

A fee will apply if a security item is lost or not returned. Payments are accepted by debit or credit card only.

Replacement fees

RAIC or Security Control Pass

• First loss: $100 + HST
• Second loss: $200 + HST
• Third loss: $300 + HST
• After third loss: The GTAA and your company’s Signing Authority will review your eligibility to hold a pass.

This fee is non-refundable.

 

Canadian Criminal Record Check (CCRC)

Who needs to get a CCRC?

A CCRC is mandatory for:

• New employees applying for a Restricted Area Identity Card (RAIC) or Transportation Security Clearance (TSC).
• Employees who a renewing an already expired or cancelled RAIC.
• Employees transferring to Toronto Pearson.

A valid Nexus or Global Entry Card can be used instead of a CCRC.

 

Who is exempt from a CCRC?

The following employees are exempt:

• Employees with a valid RAIC and TSC.
• Canadian law enforcement, USCBP officers, and Government of Canada employees (with ID/letter).

CATSA employees are not exempt.

 

How recent does my CCRC need to be?  

Your CCRC must be dated within three months of your initial Pass Office appointment and signed and dated by your Signing Authority.

How do I get a CCRC?

You can get a CCRC in two ways:

• Through an authorized third-party agency (speak to your employer).
• Through your local police service where you live.

Only  Employment and Volunteer (Level 1) checks are accepted.

If you lived abroad for more than six months in past five years, a foreign police certificate can be obtained.

 

How long are Temporary Security Control Passes valid for? 

Effective February 12, 2025, new Temporary Security Control Passes will be valid for a maximum of three months. Existing passes with expiry dates beyond three months will remain valid until they expire. Security Control Pass extensions will not exceed 12 months.

 

What is the process if I submit a positive CCRC reflecting any type of offense, for working at Toronto Pearson?

As required by Transport Canada, the Pass Office will review the CCRC and any additional documents at the applicant’s initial Pass Office appointment. The results of the CCRC will determine the type of temporary pass the applicant can receive:

• No criminal record: Eligible for a Temporary Security Control Pass, if all other requirements of the current process are met.
• Existing/undetermined record: Employer can request Escort Required temporary pass via Ilobby.
  • The employee must be always escorted by a valid RAIC holder while working in sterile and restricted areas in accordance with applicable regulations until the employee is in possession of a valid RAIC.
  • The applicant will be processed for a TSC, regardless of the criminal record check results, and assuming all other current requirements are met.

 

Appointments and Location

Do I need an appointment for the Pass Permit Control Office?
We highly recommend booking an appointment via Virtual Queue. Walk-ins are welcome but subject to availability.

What are the hours of operation?
Monday to Friday from 7 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. We are closed on the second Thursday of each month and on all statutory holidays.

Where is the Pass Permit Control Office located in the airport?
Terminal 1 Express Parking Garage, Level 5 (near 5H or 5J).

Will my parking be validated?
Yes, bring your parking ticket into the Pass Office for validation.

 

 

Transportation Security Clearance (TSC) and Restricted Area Identity Card (RAIC)

How long is my clearance going to take?
It can take anywhere from a few days to over 12 months.

Why do I have to visit the Pass Permit Control Office twice?
During your first visit, you apply for TSC. During your second visit, you complete your RAIC processing.

Will wearing colored contact lenses be an issue for my second appointment?
Yes, they interfere with capturing an accurate iris image.

How do I know when my clearance is approved?
You’ll receive an email from Transport Canada via the TSS Platform and an email from the Pass Permit Control Office. Please note, book your appointment after you receive an email from our office. 

Who can I call regarding the status of my RAIC?
Speak to your Signing Authority.

If I receive documentation from Transport Canada advising that they are not processing me at this time, what are my next steps?
Visit the Pass Permit Control Office with your security items and further information will be provided.

 

Working Without Clearance

Can I work at the airport without valid Transportation Security Clearance?
Speak to your employer for further information.

 

Transferring and Termination

What should I do if I'm transferring to Toronto Pearson from another airport?
Return your pass to the previous airport, get a receipt, and have your Signing Authority email the RAIC application. Seven days' notice is required for processing.  A Canadian Criminal Record Check may be required if the seven-day notice period is not met and a temporary security pass is required.

What do I do with my security items (e.g., RAIC, Keycards, AVOP) after my employment ends?
Return all items to the Pass Permit Control Office. Fees apply if not returned.

 

Lost, Damaged or Non-Working Passes

What do I do if I lose my pass?

A signed RAIC application form is required. Lost passes cost $113 (HST included).

What if my RAIC or keycard isn't working?
Visit the Pass Permit Control Office to resolve the issue. No appointment or paperwork is needed.

If my keycard isn’t working, can I email the Pass Permit Control Office to resolve it? If it’s a simple fix (e.g., PIN reset), email pass.permits@gtaa.com. Otherwise, visit the office.