Passport renewal: What you need to know

When should you renew your Canadian passport?

Passport processing times can vary depending on the time of year and the number of applications. To avoid delays, it’s best to start your passport application a few months before your current one expires. This way, you won’t be caught off guard just days before a planned trip to a foreign country without a valid passport. 

How to apply for a passport renewal

You have two options to submit your passport renewal application: by mail or in person. Mailing your passport application is the preferred option as it helps you avoid long lineups and saves time. 

Travelling soon? Visit a passport office in person. In both cases, you’ll need to complete the appropriate passport application form. 

Always check the latest procedures from Passport Canada before submitting your application. 

Good to know: Children’s passports cannot be renewed. A new child passport application must be submitted during the final year of validity. 

What documents are required to renew a passport in Canada?

Refer to the Government of Canada website for up-to-date information on how to submit a passport renewal request. Typically, you’ll need the following: 

• Your current valid or expired passport 

• The date of issue, expiration date, and passport number 

• Two identical passport photos (certified by the photographer). CAA-Quebec Travel Centres offer ID photo and passport photo services, including for babies and young children 

• Two references (notify them in advance) 

Good to know: With the simplified passport renewal process, you don’t need to provide new proof of citizenship or photo ID. That means no need for documents like your birth certificate or government-issued ID. 

Are you eligible for simplified passport renewal?

Eligibility for simplified passport renewal depends mainly on your previous passport: 

• Was it an adult passport issued when you were 16 years or older? 

• Was it issued within the past 15 years and valid for 10 years or less? 

• Does it contain the same information you want on your new passport: name, place and date of birth, and gender? 

How much does it cost to renew a Canadian passport?

Passport fees vary based on: 

• The type of passport (child vs. adult); 

• The validity period (5 or 10 years for adults); 

• The application method (in person or by mail); 

• The type of service (regular, express or urgent passport service, available only for in-person requests). 

Good to know: Additional fees may apply if you’re replacing a lost or stolen passport. Report a lost or stolen passport as soon as possible. 

There are several ways to pay your passport fees, but the easiest is by credit card. Debit cards are also accepted for in-person applications.

How long does it take to get a passport?

Passport processing times in Canada depend on the method of application: 

• By mail: Approximately 20 business days or more; 

• In person (regular service): Around 10 business days; 

• Urgent service: Usually within 48 hours. 

Always check the current passport wait times on the Passport Canada website before applying or visiting a passport service centre. Processing times may be longer during peak travel periods or if your application is incomplete. 

Don’t meet the requirements for a renewal? Learn how to submit a new Canadian passport application. 

Is your passport valid for your destination?

If your passport is valid but expires shortly after your return date, you might run into problems. 

Many countries require that your passport be valid for at least six months beyond your return date. It’s best to start your passport renewal process in advance to avoid issues. 

If you’re not a Canadian citizen, contact your country’s government for guidance. Do this within the last year of your passport’s validity—ideally before finalizing any travel plans. That way, you’ll always be ready to go.

How to check country-specific passport validity requirements

Each country has different rules for passport validity. Visit travel.gc.ca or contact the embassy or consulate of your destination to confirm their entry requirements. Doing this early can help you avoid last-minute stress and extra fees for urgent passport applications.

Other essential travel documents to prepare before departure

A valid passport is crucial, but it’s not the only travel document you may need. Some countries also require a travel visa or other entry requirements. Be sure to check these well in advance of your departure to avoid unpleasant surprises. 

Additionally, having travel insurance tailored to your needs can offer peace of mind in case of unexpected events. A bit of travel preparation goes a long way in ensuring a stress-free journey!