Access to Information

Use the right request for the records you need

Access to Information and Privacy (ATIP) requests can help you understand what records exist and how an administrative matter was handled. They are information-gathering tools—not remedies—and they do not replace disclosure that may be owed within another process.

Access to Information Act request

Use this route to request government records such as policies, briefing materials, program records, or correspondence. Eligibility rules apply, a fee may apply, and records can be withheld or redacted under exemptions and exclusions in the Act.

Privacy Act request

Use this route to request your own personal information held by a federal institution—for example, records, notes, emails, or reports that identify you. DND’s Info Source and Personal Information Banks can help you describe where the information may be held.

Before you submit

Choose the institution most likely to hold the records.
Use a clear date range, subject, office, location, and record type.
Ask for records, not answers to questions.
Keep the request focused enough to be searchable.
Save the final wording, confirmation number, correspondence, released package, and exemptions cited.

A practical request description

Records sought: Identify the documents or communications.
Date range: Give a start and end date.
Where held: Name the unit, office, position, system, or program if known.
Keywords: Include names, file numbers, subjects, or search terms that may help locate records.

Important limits

Processing can take time and extensions may occur.
Some information may be exempt, excluded, redacted, or outside the institution’s control.
A release may be incomplete if relevant records were not created, retained, or found.
An ATIP request does not overturn a decision or pause a grievance, complaint, review, or court deadline.

If your request is delayed or you disagree with the response, the decision letter should explain complaint options. This page provides general information, not legal advice or representation.

Official sources

Page updated

Google Sites

Report abuse