Canadian Passport Renewal: Step-by-Step Guide 2024
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Discover the methodologyNeed to renew your Canadian passport? Read our easy step-by-step guide on Canadian Passport Renewal. Learn how to get the right forms, how to fill them up, the documents required, and how much it costs. We'll also tell you where and how to apply so you can get your renewal in the shortest time. You can also download the free Canadian passport renewal form in this guide.
Canadian passport renewal application: Key Points
- You need a Canadian passport renewal form to start the process.
- Application forms can be downloaded from the IRCC website.
- Application forms can also be found at Canada Post and Service Canada centres.
- Canadian passport renewal fee: Between $120 and $260 (differs with place and urgency)
- Renewal needs to be done by mail or in person.
- Canadian Passport renewal online is not available as of July 2024.
Who can do a Canadian passport renewal?
You can renew your Canadian passport if:
- Your last passport was an adult passport issued when you were at least 16 years old.
- It was issued within the last 15 years.
- It was valid for 5 or 10 years.
- Your name, date of birth, and place of birth on the new passport are the same as on your last passport.
- Your gender identifier on the new passport is the same as on your last passport (printed or with an observation sticker).
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How to renew your Canadian passport?
Here's a step-by-step guide to applying for your Canadian passport renewal:
- 1. Gather Documents: Your current passport, passport photos, and identity and citizenship information.
- 2. Complete the Form: Fill out the appropriate application form (PPTC 054 for renewals) from the IRCC website, Canada Post, or Service Canada Centre.
- 3. Submit Photos: Provide two passport photos that meet the required specifications.
- 4. Pay Fees: Pay the renewal fee and any additional fees for expedited service if needed.
- 5. Submit Application: Send your application by mail, or in person at a Passport Office or Service Canada Centre.
The renewal method is called the Adult Simplified Renewal Passport Application and we will discuss each of these steps in the following sections.
You can start your Canadian passport renewal online. Fill out the dedicated form from Service Canada. You will need to provide the required information, then click on "Book an appointment Online." If you're picking the "walk-in" option, you must go to a Service Canada Centre. Service Canada will then call you to schedule an interview.
You can submit the simplified passport renewal application in two ways:
In Person:
- Visit a regional Passport Program office or a participating service center. If you are unable to go yourself, another person can represent you.
- With an appointment.
- Without an appointment by going to one of the passport program offices.
By Mail:
- Send your completed form to the following address:
| Method | Address |
|---|---|
| By Mail | Passport Program Gatineau QC K1A 0G3 Canada |
| By Courier | Passport Program 22 de Varennes Street Gatineau QC J8T 8R1 Canada |
You do not need to be in Canada to apply for the renewal of your Canadian passport. You can start the application online and choose the location for your application:
- In Canada
- In the United States
- Elsewhere
Can I renew my Canadian passport online?
As of now, you cannot renew your Canadian passport online. You can only start your application, download the forms and get an appointment online. The rollout of the online renewal system has been postponed due to identified issues, and a new launch date has not been provided.
What documents are needed for Canadian passport renewal application?
Here are the documents needed to apply for a Canadian passport renewal for individuals aged 16 and over:
- Canadian passport renewal form (form PPTC 054).
- Your previous passport, which will be cancelled upon getting the new one.
- Two identical passport photos with the photographer's name, address, and the date they were taken written on the back.
- Two references: People who have known you for at least two years.
But where can I get a Canadian passport renewal form? You can download it right here.
Download the Canadian Passport Renewal Form
Download Free Passport Renewal Form - English
Download Free Passport Renewal Form - French
What passport renewal references do I provide for renewal?
Here are the references needed for renewing a Canadian passport:
- Two references: people who have known you for at least two years.
- These individuals must meet certain criteria, including:
- They must be 18 years or older.
- They must have known you for at least 6 months for identity certificate or refugee travel document applications.
- They must agree to provide their name and contact information in your application.
Canadian passport renewal photo requirements
When renewing your Canadian passport, you need to submit two updated passport photos that meet the following specifications:
- Photo Size: 50mm wide by 70mm high.
- Face Dimensions: Your face height must be between 31mm and 36mm.
- Colour: The photo can be black and white or in colour, with colour recommended.
- Accessories: No unnecessary accessories; head coverings for religious or medical reasons are allowed if they do not obscure the face.
- Quality: The photo should be clear, without flash reflection, glare, or shadows.
- Appearance: Natural makeup is allowed; ensure you look like your daily self. Use a matte look to prevent reflections.
- Expression: Keep a neutral expression, no excessive smiling or frowning.
- Background: Plain white.
Do you need a guarantor for Canadian passport renewal?
You don't need a guarantor if you're renewing your passport. A guarantor is only required if you're applying for a passport for the first time or if you're not eligible to renew your current passport.
What is the cost of Canadian passport renewal in 2024?
The renewal of a Canadian passport costs between CAD 120 and CAD 260. This price varies based on two criteria:
- The location from which you are applying for renewal (Canada or the United States).
- The desired validity period of the passport (5 or 10 years).
Canadian passport renewal fee
The table below provides the renewal prices for an adult Canadian passport:
| Canadian Passport Renewal Application Fee | From Canada | From the United States |
|---|---|---|
| For a 5-year validity | CAD 120 | CAD 190 |
| For a 10-year validity | CAD 160 | CAD 260 |
The fees paid when applying to renew your passport will not be refunded in the following cases:
- You cancel your application.
- You are issued a passport with a shorter validity period than requested (for example, due to multiple lost passports).
- Your application for a travel document is refused, or you are issued a passport with a shorter validity period than requested (for instance, if you have lost your passport several times).
Good to know
If your passport is not issued, you will be able to get a refund only for the consular fees applicable to any adult passport renewal application.
How long does it take to get a Canadian passport renewal?
The time it takes to renew a Canadian passport depends on the service option you choose. Here are the Canadian passport renewal times:
- Regular Service: 10 to 20 business days.
- Express Service: 2 to 9 business days, available for an additional fee.
- Urgent or Same-Day Service: 1 business day, available for an additional fee and proof of urgency (e.g., travel itinerary).
Can I check my Canadian passport renewal status online?
Yes, you can check the status of your Canadian passport renewal online on the Government of Canada website once your application has been submitted.
Can you renew a Canadian passport from abroad?
Yes, you can apply to renew your Canadian passport from outside Canada. To apply for a simplified Canadian passport renewal from abroad, you need to download a different form: the PPTC 483. You can download it right here for free:
Download Adult Abroad Canadian Passport Renewal Form
The steps for renewing a Canadian passport from abroad are the same:
- Download, print, fill out, and sign each page of the PPTC 483.
- Include your recent passport and 2 photos.
- Provide two references.
- Pay your fees.
The only difference is that you submit your application to the Canadian embassy or consulate in the country where you reside. Ensure your passport was issued within the past 15 years and that you meet the other eligibility requirements.
How to contact Canadian passport renewal services?
You can call passport services Monday to Friday from 8:30 am to 5:00 pm (local time) and from 9:00 am to 5:30 pm in Newfoundland. They do not answer calls on statutory holidays.
You can call:
- Toll-Free Number: 1‑800‑567‑6868
- Direct Number: 1‑819‑997‑8338
For individuals who are hearing impaired or have a speech impediment, you can use the TTY service at 1‑866‑255‑7655.
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Canadian Passport Renewal: FAQs
Where can I get a Canadian passport renewal form?
You can get a Canadian passport renewal form from the following places:
- Online: Download the form from the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website. You may have to answer a few basic questions on the purpose of your renewal and the mode of application before accessing the forms.
- Canada Post: Pick up a form at any Canada Post office.
- Service Canada Centre: Visit a Service Canada Centre to get the form in person. Find your nearest centre here.
You can also directly download the Canadian passport renewal form mentioned in the earlier section on this page: "Download Canadian Passport Renewal Form"
How much is a Canadian passport renewal?
The cost of Canadian passport renewal (from Canada) is typically as follows:
- 5-year adult passport (16 years and older): $120
- 10-year adult passport (16 years and older): $160
- Child passport (0 to 15 years): $57
- Urgent services: $20 for standard pickup to $110 for next business day pickup
When will online passport renewal be available?
The rollout of Canadian passport renewal online has experienced some delays. Initially expected to launch in fall 2023, the system encountered issues during testing, which prompted Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) to make further improvements to ensure its reliability and security. As of now, there is no new specific launch date.
Once the system is available, it will allow Canadians to renew their passports online, including paying fees and uploading passport photos, significantly simplifying the process. This will help reduce the need to visit Service Canada offices in person and streamline the entire renewal procedure.
Can I renew my Canadian passport at a walk-in center?
Yes, you can renew your Canadian passport at a walk-in Service Canada Centre. Please check the specific centre's availability and wait times before visiting. However, we recommend getting an appointment to ensure your passport arrives at the earliest without unexpected delays.
What is the fastest way to renew my Canadian passport?
The fastest way to renew your Canadian passport is through urgent or same-day service at a Passport Office, which takes one business day. Gather your current passport, two photos, completed form PPTC 054, and proof of urgency (e.g., travel itinerary). Visit a Passport Office, submit the documents, and pay the regular fee plus an additional CAD 110. Pick up your passport the same day or the next business day.
When should I renew my Canadian passport before it expires?
It is recommended to renew your Canadian passport at least six months before it expires, especially if you plan to travel internationally. Some countries require your passport to be valid for several months beyond your stay, and airlines may not allow you to board if your passport is close to expiring.
To avoid any issues, check the entry requirements of the countries you plan to visit and renew your passport in advance to ensure it remains valid throughout your trip.
How long can a Canadian passport be expired before renewal?
You can renew your Canadian passport if it has been expired for up to 15 years. This means that as long as your passport expired within the past 15 years, you are eligible to use the simplified renewal process. This simplified renewal method does not require a guarantor or original documents, only two photos, two references, a completed form, and the applicable fees.
What to do with my old passport after renewal?
After renewing your passport in Canada, you should retain your old passport for records, as it may contain useful visas and entry stamps. Ensure that the issuing authority marks it as cancelled or invalid to prevent misuse. Store it securely, as it can serve as a secondary form of identification or for personal records and travel history.
How do I renew my child's Canadian passport?
A child passport is valid for up to 5 years and remains valid until its expiry date, even after the child turns 16. You cannot renew a child passport. There is no specific passport renewal form for children. Instead, you need to apply for a new child passport when it expires. Once the child turns 16, they can apply for a new adult passport.
