How to Renew Your Passport in Canada

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    Your passport allows you to move from one country to another. You cannot travel internationally without a valid one, so always renew your passport when its expiry date approaches. Here’s how to renew your passport in Canada.

    Passports expire after five or 10 years, so you cannot use yours after that point. After 2020-21 travel restrictions ended, Canada’s passport system struggled to keep pace with renewals. For months, application backlogs took a serious toll on Canadian travellers eager to get away to new destinations. Some had to wait in long lines, prompting the federal government to hire more workers and streamline its approval processes.

    To avoid this type of hassle, plan ahead and don’t wait to renew this key identity document. Also, keep in mind that some countries only welcome you if your passport has at least six to eight months time left to go. The renewal process is straightforward and takes only a few weeks.

    Who can renew a passport?

    Anybody with an expired Canadian passport can apply for renewal if they already have an adult passport. In fact, you do not have to wait for your passport to expire to renew your passport in Canada. You can send in your request up to a year before your existing passport ends. But, remember that you cannot transfer the unused validity period of your existing passport to your new one.

    Presently, adults can renew this document but only if you were at least 16 when you applied for your previous one. Anyone under age 16 must apply for a new child passport.

    During recent floods and wildfires, many Canadians lost these vital documents. However, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada has made it easier for people to replace them even if you dont have your original copy. Typically, the government must have issued your passport within the last 15 years for you to qualify for a renewal. If not, you must start all over again.  

    You will have to apply for a new passport if you’d like to change personal information, like a new name or gender. You won’t have to ask for a change if your correct gender already appears on your passport or has an X observation sticker.

    How to renew your passport in Canada: a step-by-step guide

    Since this document stays valid for many years, it’s easy to forget the steps in renewing a passport in Canada. Here’s a refresher!

    1. Fill in the application form

    First, fill out and download the free online application form for eligible Canadians applying in Canada or the United States. You’ll find it straightforward and easy to complete. Alternatively, you can go to your nearest Canada Post location and pick a copy of a free application form. 

    The website will give you the option to keep existing visas. So, make sure to check the relevant box to ensure you don’t lose valid visas when you apply for passport renewal in Canada.

    Take care when filing the form. You cannot white out words but you can cross out the error and add the right information below or above it. However, you will have to write your initials beside the changes.

    2 Get two passport photos

    Next, you need to submit two unaltered, identical photos with your application. They must have been taken no more than six months before you send in your application with no filters or alterations. In addition, the photos must meet the following requirements:

    • 50mm wide by 70mm high
    • Your face must serve as the focal point with the height of your face measuring between 31mm and 36mm from your chin to the top of your head.
    • Black and white or in high-quality colour. We suggest that you stick to colour photos.
    • In focus, clear and sharp images.
    • No accessories can cover your facial features, such as large sunglasses. Head coverings and hats worn for religious or medical reasons are permitted but they must not hide your face.
    • No flash reflections, glare or shadows.
    • You can wear makeup but the picture must show your true skin tone.
    • You must keep a neutral expression with your eyes open and clearly visible. No smiling or frowning.
    • Don’t tilt your face and shoulders. You must look straight into the camera.
    • Plain white or light-coloured background

    Ideally, work with a professional studio or photographer and ensure photos get printed on a high-quality, plain photographic paper. In short, don’t take and print your own photos at home. Further, photos on heavy paper get rejected. Finally, have the photographer stamp and date your photos with the studio’s full address and name on the back.

    Unlike an application for a new passport, a renewal does not require a guarantor. So you don’t need a guarantor’s signature on the photos.

    3. Find references

    Don’t confuse guarantors with references! You must include two references aged 18 or over in your application. These individuals must have known you for at least two years, but not as members of your immediate or extended family.

    4. Calculate the fee

    Next, pay your Canadian passport renewal fee based on these fees:

    There may face additional charges if you need to replace a stolen or lost passport. Furthermore, you can expedite the process if you have an upcoming trip.

    • Urgent pickup within 1 business day – $110
    • Express pick-up within 2 to 9 business days – $50
    • Pick-up in person within 10 business days – $20
    • For emergencies on weekends or holidays – $335

    The expedited services options only work for applications submitted in person. You can avoid this fee by not buying expedited services. Still, you pay an extra $45 for replacing a stolen or lost passport, certifying a true copy or transferring a file to a different office.

    For instance, you may need a certified true copy in cases where the embassy expressly asks you to submit one. Also, you pay file transfer charges only when you wish to transfer your documents to another passport office. 

    5. Pay and submit your application

    You cannot currently pay these charges online. However, you may visit the nearest office to pay in person. Available locations include any participating Canada Post outlet, Service Centre Canada and any other Passport Program offices

    You can pay by debit card, credit card, money order or certified cheque. For cheques, make them payable to the Receiver General for Canada. Further, the government only accepts Visa, Mastercard and American Express. Thankfully, these companies offer some of the best travel credit cards! You can also fill in the payment section of your form, provide the requested details and mail it in. You may NOT pay by personal cheque or cash.

    passport applying by mail

    Lastly, the form contains a checklist to ensure you don’t forget anything. You must submit all the required documents including your old passport with your new application.

    6. Collect your passport

    Finally, collect your passport. You can choose to receive it via mail or pick it from your nearest passport office. If you wonder when you will receive your passport, check the status of your application online.

    Once it arrives, check the document to ensure it contains no errors. Then, sign your name in the signature line on page 3 and write your address on page 4. After all, you cannot use unsigned passports for international travel.

    How to renew your passport from abroad

    You can renew your Canadian passport from abroad without having to come back Canada. The process differs based on where you live. In most cases, you simply fill in and submit an application form then add supporting documents, including your photos. Applications usually go to the Canadian embassy in your country. However, some countries offer dropbox services while others require you to deliver it in person. Processing can take a couple of weeks depending on the country. 

    The fee structure depends on your country since they could add charges for expedited services and verifications. Check with the embassy for more details.

    FAQs about how to renew your passport

    How do you get a Canadian passport?

    You can get a Canadian passport by submitting an application with the required documents and fees. Only eligible Canadian citizens will receive a passport. You will need to present several documents if you apply for a passport for the first time to verify your citizenship. These documents are generally not required when renewing a passport.

    Do you need a passport to fly within Canada?

    You do not need a passport to fly within Canada but you do when crossing international borders. At that point, an immigration officer will check and stamp it when you enter or leave the country. However, travellers will need a valid Canadian government-issued identity document to travel within Canada, especially for a flight. 
    The document must include your photograph, date of birth and full name, such as your passport and driver’s licence. Alternatively, you can submit two valid and government-issued documents showing your name and date of birth if you do not have a valid document that contains your photograph. Information in your document must match the information on your boarding pass.

    How to renew your passport?

    You can renew a Canadian passport by submitting an application in person or by mail, along with the required documents and fees. The process is simpler than applying for a new passport.

    How long does it take to get a passport in Canada?

    The processing time starts once your submitted application gets approved. However, incorrect or incomplete applications may get rejected. The entire process can take up to 20 business days. Shipping can add up to 5 additional days but you can track its progress by asking for an update.
    You can also speed things up by choosing expedited services. They come at a cost but can help you get your hands on your renewed passport in one day. This option, however, only works for those who apply in person.

    How to check your passport renewal status?

    You can check the status of your passport application online. Please note that the renewal process takes a few weeks. This delay is perfectly normal.

    How much is a Canadian passport?

    Here’s the fee breakdown:
    $120 for a 5-year adult passport (16 years and older) when applying from Canada
    $190 for a 5-year adult passport (16 years and older) when applying from the USA or another country
    $160 for a 10-year adult passport (16 years and older) when applying from Canada
    $260 for a 10-year adult passport (16 years and older) when applying from the USA or another country
    $57 for a 5-year child passport (15 years and younger) when applying from Canada
    $100 for a 5-year child passport (15 years and younger) when applying from the USA or another country
    To save money, choose a credit card that will give you cash back or travel perks!

    How much does it cost to renew your passport?

    It costs the same to renew your passport as it does to get a new one. For an adult, expect to pay $120 for a 5-year passport and $160 for a 10-year passport.

    Where can I take a passport photo?

    Passport photos must be taken by a photo studio or commercial photographer. Photos taken and printed at home will not get approved. 

    Who can be a guarantor for a Canadian passport?

    You will need two references AND two guarantors for a new passport application in Canada, but only two references for a renewal. Both guarantors and references must be adults (18 years or older) and have known you for two years or more. In addition, they must be Canadian citizens and have a valid passport or a passport that can still be used as identification. You’ll need their consent to use their contact details for your application. The passport service may contact your guarantors, so make sure they can answer calls or e-mails.
    A guarantor can be anyone, including a family member. However, a parent or legal guardian applying on behalf of a child cannot serve as the guarantor for the child’s passport application.

    How to mail your passport renewal?

    At the post office counter, the employee will advise you on the best way to send your passport renewal. Standard mail works, but you can also choose registered mail for added security. If you want a new one in a hurry, ship your application via express delivery. The mailing address is:
    Government of Canada
    Passport Program
    PO Box 4000 STN LCD 3
    Mississauga, Ontario  L5K 0A9
    The courier address is:
    Government of Canada
    Passport Program
    22 De Varennes Street
    Gatineau, Quebec  J8T 8R1

    What should I do with my expired Canadian passport?

    Don’t make the mistake of throwing away your old passport just because it has expired or you have a new one. Your passport can still be used as an ID if it hasn’t expired for more than 12 months. Plus, you will need it to renew your passport in Canada. You can get rid of your old passport if it’s older than 15 years. 

    How many passports can you have?

    Technically speaking, you can only use one passport at a time. However, as a Canadian national, you may choose to retain more than one nationality. You can only hold a second or third passport if the other country also allows dual nationality. Some countries do not.

    Can you use an expired passport as an ID in Canada?

    You can use an expired passport as an ID in Canada if it has expired recently. Your passport can be used for a period of 12 months from expiry. This means a passport that expired on July 1, 2023 can be used as an ID until June 30, 2024.

    How long does a passport last?

    Passports last for 5 or 10 years depending on your age. However, you might have to renew your passport before expiry if you run out of empty pages. A passport must have blank pages for it to remain valid. These pages are used for entry and exit stamps. Each visa requires at least one blank page with no stains or ink.

    How many countries does the Canadian passport allow you to visit without a visa?

    Canada has one of the strongest passports. It gives Canadian citizens the right to visit 184 countries and territories without a visa or by getting a visa on arrival. Some of the major destinations include the United States, the United Kingdom, 27 European countries within the Schengen Zone, Australia and the United Arab Emirates.
    Some countries that require Canadians to get a pre-approved visa include China, India and Russia. These requirements keep changing from time to time. It is best to get in touch with the embassy for the latest updates. 

    How to change my address in my passport?

    Canada allows citizens to change their address without having to apply for a new passport. You can just cross out the old address on page 4 and write your new address above it. Alternatively, you can use a separate piece of paper for this purpose if you don’t have enough space for your new address.
    Above all, avoid using correction fluid to cross out your old address. Your passport will continue to remain valid, but you cannot change other details such as your country and name with this method.

    Can a Canadian cross the border without a passport?

    Canadians coming back to the country might use an expired passport or other identity documents such as a NEXUS pass to enter the country. However, in most cases, you cannot fly from your departing country until you have a valid passport – with some exceptions.
    Canadians can visit the United States or return to Canada without a passport provided they have other identity documents. To Canadian border services officers, you can present a Canadian birth certificate, permanent resident card, citizenship card, Secure Certificate of Indian Status, NEXUS card or an enhanced driver’s license issued by a Canadian province or territory.
    Documents used to cross the border must be valid. Plus, you must produce an original copy. We must mention that the final approval remains in the hands of the immigration officer who may not allow you to cross the border without a passport.

    How long does it take to renew your passport?

    Renewing a passport takes between 10 and 20 working days, plus postal delays. In other words, send your application at least six weeks before your trip. However, you can always check in to see if a backlog is causing delays.

    How long before you have to renew your passport?

    A few weeks before the expiry date indicated on your passport, send in your renewal application. You may also need to renew your passport immediately in exceptional circumstances. For instance, if it is lost, damaged or has no more blank pages, you’ll need a new one.

    How long does it take to receive your renewed passport?

    Postal delivery takes around five days. This is in addition to the processing time of 10 to 20 working days once your application has been received. In other words, send your application at least six weeks before your trip.

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    Michael Wight is a full-time freelance writer with over 15 years of writing experience. He is heading his own content writing firm, Michael Words, and also contributes to other websites. He is a digital marketing expert and enjoys playing musical instruments in his free time. You can find Michael on Upwork as Michael W. and he is also associated with Michael Words.