The federal government is resuming passport services that were paused in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic. The announcement came yesterday from the Ministry of Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada.
The resumption applies to Canadians’ applying for passports by mail. The government well also resume services for those who travel within 30 days by appointment at a Service Canada office.
“Resuming Canadian passport services by mail and expanding in-person appointments for those who need a passport in less than 30 days is a significant first step toward resuming regular passport services in Canada, while prioritizing the health and safety of Canadians, and our employees,” Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Minister Marco Mendicino said.
The federal government advises Canadians without travel plans to wait before applying, because processing times are expected to be longer than normal.
Applicants who are concerned about renewing their passport should note that they can now use the simplified renewal process within two years after the expiry date rather than one, if their passport expired on or after February 1, 2019. This means they have more time to renew if they aren’t travelling soon. The simplified renewal process allows Canadians to submit a shorter form without resubmitting their citizenship documents and a guarantor declaration.
As Service Canada Centres begin to gradually and safely reopen, passport services will be limited to appointment only. Canadians can continue to visit their website for further updates. For more information on passports visit the website
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