Renewing a Canadian passport online can be convenient, but the online service is available only when every eligibility condition is satisfied. Use this online passport renewal Canada checklist to decide whether you can apply digitally or need to renew in person.

Who Can Use Online Passport Renewal in Canada?

You may be able to renew your passport online if you meet all of the current eligibility requirements. Your home and mailing address must be in Canada, and you must not be travelling within 20 business days. Online renewal is not suitable when you need a passport urgently.

Which Existing Passports Qualify?

Your current or recently expired passport must meet the requirements shown in the official online-renewal instructions. Review the application criteria carefully before starting, because submitting an online application cancels your current passport.

The Six-Month Expiry Requirement

The passport must expire within six months or already be expired. If your passport has more than six months remaining, confirm whether you qualify before beginning an application.

Who Cannot Renew a Passport Online?

Online renewal is not appropriate if you are travelling within 20 business days, do not have both a home and mailing address in Canada, or do not meet the requirements for the existing passport. Applicants with urgent travel needs should use the appropriate in-person service instead.

Digital Passport Photo Requirements

You need a commercial digital passport photo that meets the government’s specifications. Check the required format, dimensions, file quality and photographer information before uploading it. A photo that does not meet the requirements can delay processing or lead to a request for a replacement.

Can You Change Your Name or Gender Identifier Online?

Before applying, confirm whether your requested name or gender-identifier change is supported by the online service. If your circumstances require additional documents or a different application process, you may need to apply in person.

What Happens to Your Current Passport?

Your current passport is cancelled once the online application is submitted. Do not submit an online renewal if you still need to use that passport for upcoming travel or if you need to keep it valid while your application is processed.

Online Renewal Processing and Mailing Times

Processing may take 20 business days plus mailing time. Allow additional time for delivery and avoid relying on online renewal when your travel date is close.

When You Must Apply in Person

Apply in person if you are travelling within 20 business days, do not satisfy every online-renewal condition, need urgent service, or have circumstances that require supporting documents or an alternative application process.

Final Online Passport Renewal Checklist

• Your home address is in Canada.
• Your mailing address is in Canada.
• Your passport expires within six months or is already expired.
• You are not travelling within 20 business days.
• You have a compliant commercial digital passport photo.
• You understand that your current passport is cancelled when you submit the online application.
• You can allow 20 business days for processing plus mailing time.
• You have reviewed the official online passport-renewal instructions.

Have GovPrepare review your eligibility and organize your passport-renewal information before your existing passport is cancelled.