Canadian Passport Renewal

Passport renewal in Canada is split into two categories: the first consists of those who are 16 years and over, and the second consists of those who are under 16 years old and under. The application steps for each category do not differ much from each other, except for some of the requirements. The requirements are discussed below.

Passport Renewal for those 16 Years and Over

The applicant should use Form PPT040, which can be obtained at any Passport Canada office, Canada Post outlets, or Service Canada Centre. When a guarantor signature is not obtained, the applicant should also submit Form PPT132.

Two passport-sized photographs are required. The photographs should have a neutral expression with the mouth closed and taken within the last 12 months. Renewal applicants do not require a guarantor to sign the back of the photos. However, the photographer or studio’s name and address must be written on one of the photographs, as well as the date when the picture was taken.

The old Canadian passport is also required, issued within the last five years. An original proof of Canadian citizenship must be presented. It should be noted that no photocopies (notarized or otherwise) will be accepted.

Other documents that support the applicant’s identity should be issued by a federal, municipal, or provincial Canadian authority. Some examples are a Canadian Driver’s License, Health card, and Provincial ID card.

The total fee for the passport depends on the kind of passport that is issued, but normally the fee is CDN$100 with guarantor and CDN$150 without guarantor.

Passport Renewal for those 3-15 Years Old

Unlike the application form used by those 16 years and above, the form used by an applicant who is less than 16 years of age is Form PPT042. Form PPT132 is also needed if there is no guarantor signature.

The photograph requirements are the same as that of the 16 years old and above passport renewal. The Canadian passport issued to the child or on which the child’s name appears is required.

An original proof of Canadian citizenship is required as well. Like the above requirement, no copies or photocopies, even if notarized, will be accepted.

Any identity support for both of the child’s parents is required, such as a Canadian Driver’s License, Provincial ID Card, or passport. If applicable, any legal documents regarding custody or mobility of or access to the child should be submitted.

The total fee for the passport is CDN$35 for those with guarantors and CDN$85 for those without.

For both passports, the processing time is usually 3 weeks from the date of submission.

Additional Notes

Recently, the Canadian government implemented the Simplified Passport Renewal Program for Canadians who meet certain eligibility criteria. The program aims to allow Canadians to renew their passports using a shorter form. They also do not need to submit documentary evidence of citizenship, their identification, or declare their guarantor. Under the program, the applicants will only have to submit a shorter form, two new photos, the application fee, and their last passport.

To be eligible for the program, a Canadian must meet the following criteria:

• They must be living in Canada at the time of the application.
• They must have lived in Canada at the time of their previous application.
• They were 16 years old or over when they applied for their previous passport.
• Their previous passport must have been valid for five years. It must also have been issued after January 31, 2002. The passport must also never have been damaged, lost or reported stolen. Lastly, the passport must have been issued under their current name.

With the new program, the Canadian government hopes to expedite the passport renewal process to serve more Canadians and to make the process more efficient and simpler for all.