How to Renew a Canadian Passport
Renewals use a simplified application: no guarantor or citizenship documents, just your old passport, a new photo, two references, and the fee. Apply by mail or at a Service CanadaService Canada — The government service counter network for SIN applications, passports, EI, and other federal programs.Click for official info ↗ passport office; standard service runs about 2–8 weeks, with urgent and express options at passport offices.
The Steps
Follow these in order
Each card shows the phase, expected time, and any cost. Data checked against official CAN sources(2025-Latest).
0 of 5 steps
- Before You Go 10 min
Confirm you qualify for simplified renewal
You can renew if your current passport was issued with a validity of 5+ years, is expired less than one year ago (or still valid), was issued at age 16+, and you are not changing your name. Otherwise you file a general application with proof of citizenship.
Click to mark as done
- Fill / Prepare 30 min
Get compliant photos and fill the form
Photos must be taken within the last 12 months by a commercial photographer (50mm x 70mm, plain background, photographer's name and address on the back — one signed). The renewal form is short: personal details, two references, and your old passport number.
Click to mark as done
- Submit & Pay 20 min
Submit by mail or in person
Mail: send the form, photos, old passport, and fee receipt to the address for your region. In person: book a Service CanadaService Canada — The government service counter network for SIN applications, passports, EI, and other federal programs.Click for official info ↗ passport office appointment (faster, and required for urgent service). Pay online in advance or at the office.
Click to mark as done
- Wait 2–8 weeks
Track processing
Standard service: about 10 business days plus mailing time from submission at a passport office; mailed applications take longer (up to 8 weeks total in busy periods). Express (2–9 business days) and urgent (end of next business day) options exist at passport offices with proof of travel.
Click to mark as done
- Receive
Sign and check the new passport
The new passport arrives by courier; your old passport is returned separately (cancelled). Sign in ink matching your application. Choose the 10-year validity ($160) unless you expect name or citizenship changes — it is better value per year.
Click to mark as done
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
My passport expired 2 years ago. Can I still use the renewal process?
No — simplified renewal only covers passports expired less than one year. Beyond that, you file a general adult application with proof of citizenship (birth certificate or citizenship certificate) and a guarantor.
I changed my name since my last passport.
Name changes take you out of the renewal stream: file a general application with the legal change document (marriage certificate, legal change of name certificate) and supporting ID in the new name.
I have a trip in 3 weeks. Which service should I use?
Book an in-person appointment at a passport office (not a Service CanadaService Canada — The government service counter network for SIN applications, passports, EI, and other federal programs.Click for official info ↗ receiving point) and request express service (2–9 business days) with proof of travel. Urgent (next business day) is for emergencies within 48 hours of travel. Bring your itinerary.
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