CanadaCan I request access to all personal information the government holds about me?
Yes, as an individual in Canada, you have the right to request access to personal information the federal government holds about you under the Privacy Act.
What the Law Says
Canadian law gives individuals two distinct but related rights: one to access their own personal information held by federal institutions, and another to access general government records. The Privacy Act applies specifically to personal data; the Access to Information Act covers broader records.
Under the Privacy Act, every individual — regardless of citizenship — has the legal right to request and receive access to personal information about themselves that is held by federal government institutions.
The Access to Information Act grants Canadian citizens and permanent residents the right to access any record under the control of a federal institution — but this right does not extend to personal information about other individuals (which is protected under the Privacy Act).
Requests must be made in writing, and institutions must respond within 30 days, though extensions are permitted in limited circumstances. A $5 application fee applies for both types of requests.
Statutory TextEvery individual has the right to request and be given access to personal information about themselves held by government institutions.
— Privacy Act, s. 12 — Right of access
Statutory TextEvery Canadian citizen or permanent resident has a right of access to any record under the control of a government institution.
— Access to Information Act, s. 4 — Right to access to records
What to Do
Confirm which federal institution holds the information (e.g., CRA, IRCC, Service Canada).
Complete the appropriate form: 'Request for Access to Personal Information' (for Privacy Act) or 'Access to Information Request Form' (for Access to Information Act).
Include proof of identity (e.g., copy of driver’s licence or passport) and pay the $5 fee.
Submit your request by mail, email (if accepted), or online via the ATIP Online Request Service.
Wait for a response — institutions must reply within 30 days, though they may extend the deadline with written notice.
Sources
Not legal advice. This article is general information based on publicly available sources, written for educational purposes. Laws change and individual situations vary. Consult a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction before acting on anything you read here. Last reviewed: 2026-06-08.