The Government of Canada has expanded its online passport renewal service, making it available to all eligible adult Canadians in Canada. The new service provides a convenient option for Canadians to renew their passports digitally by submitting their application, photo and payment online, without needing to mail documents or visit a Service Canada Centre.
The Canadian Snowbird Association (CSA) has been advocating for expanded online passport renewal options as a way to make the process more convenient and accessible for Canadians, particularly those preparing for extended travel abroad. The CSA is pleased to see the Government of Canada move forward with this important service improvement.
This change may be particularly helpful for Canadian snowbirds who are preparing for upcoming travel and want to complete their passport renewal before leaving Canada.
To be eligible for online renewal, applicants must meet certain requirements, including renewing their own adult passport, having a Canadian home and mailing address, and having a regular adult passport that was issued within the last 15 years. Applicants must also provide a digital passport photo taken by a commercial photographer.
Snowbirds should be aware that passports renewed online cannot currently be delivered outside Canada. Canadians travelling or residing abroad must continue to use the available passport services for applicants outside Canada, including applying by mail or through a Government of Canada office abroad.
Applicants should also plan ahead. When an online renewal application is submitted, the existing passport is cancelled and can no longer be used for travel. Online renewals follow the same 20-business-day service standard as other simplified adult renewals, plus mailing time. Those requiring a passport sooner should apply in person using available urgent or express services.
CSA encourages members to check their passport expiry dates well before the winter travel season and complete any required renewal while still in Canada whenever possible.
For more information and to determine your eligibility, visit the Government of Canada’s passport renewal website: https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/canadian-passports/renew-adult-passport/submit-form-fees/renew-online.html.
