Canadians can now renew passports entirely online as Ottawa expands digital services and promises faster, more convenient processing.
VANCOUVER — Eligible adult Canadians can now renew their passports entirely online, marking a major step in the federal government’s efforts to modernize public services and make passport renewals more convenient.
The announcement was made Tuesday by Lena Metlege Diab, who confirmed that online passport renewal is now available to all eligible adults in Canada, with no cap on the number of applications.
The new service allows applicants to complete the entire renewal process digitally by submitting their application, passport photo and payment online, eliminating the need to mail documents or visit a Service Canada Centre in most cases.
The federal government said the move will particularly benefit Canadians living in rural and remote communities, as well as those with mobility challenges, while continuing to offer in-person and mail-in services for those who prefer or require them.
The expansion builds on recent improvements to Canada’s passport system, including an online application status tracker, wider access to 10-business-day passport service at select Service Canada Centres, and a passport service guarantee that applications will be processed within 30 business days or the passport will be provided free of charge.
Officials noted that applicants renewing online must still use passport photos taken by a commercial photographer, who will provide a digital photo file for upload.
Canadians requiring a passport urgently or within 10 business days must continue to apply in person at a Service Canada Centre or a passport office offering express or urgent services.
The federal government says the nationwide rollout is part of its broader effort to deliver faster, more secure and user-friendly digital government services while reducing wait times and in-person visits.
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