Canada Guarantees 30-Day Passport Processing with Full Refund for Delays

The federal government announces a new service standard and online renewal options to address past backlogs and improve accessibility.

The Canadian government pledges to process complete passport applications within 30 business days or refund the application fee in full.
The new guarantee applies to applications submitted online, in person, or by mail and will take effect later this year.
An online passport renewal system, piloted in December 2024, will expand nationwide in the summer, allowing Canadians to apply digitally from anywhere.
The announcement follows efforts to modernize services after COVID-19-related backlogs caused significant delays and public frustration in 2022.
Other updates include the SIN@Landing program for newcomers and improved efficiency in Employment Insurance and dental care benefit processing.