Officials urge Canadians to renew passports 'at least 6 months' before their expiry date
This little-known rule could catch you out! 👀
Before you pack your bags, double-check your passport's expiry date — some countries won't let you in if it's too close to expiring.
Thinking about booking your next getaway? Check your passport first!
A lot of Canadians don't realize that your passport's expiry date could impact your travel plans long before it actually expires. In fact, officials are now urging travellers to renew their passports at least six months in advance — or risk being turned away at the airport or denied entry into certain countries.
Whether you've got a trip coming up or just want to be prepared, here's what you need to know about renewing your Canadian passport, including when to do it, how the process works, and how you could end up renewing your passport for free.
When to renew your Canadian passport
The Government of Canada is reminding Canadians to keep an eye on their passport expiry dates and not to wait until the last minute to renew.
Passport Canada now recommends renewing your passport at least six months before it expires. That extra time can help you avoid delays during processing and prevent travel issues, especially since some countries won't let you in if your passport is close to expiring (more on this later).
If you've got travel plans coming up, the best thing to do is check your destination's entry and exit requirements. Every country has different rules, and in some cases, you might need even more than six months of validity left on your passport to visit.
Keep in mind though, if you try to renew more than a year before your passport expires, Passport Canada will ask why you're renewing so early. If you're applying by mail, you'll also need to include a written explanation with your application.
What is the "six month rule?"
If you've never heard of the so-called "six-month rule," it's a common entry requirement in more than 70 countries, including popular travel destinations like Thailand, Turkey, China, the Dominican Republic, and Singapore.
The rule means your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond the date you arrive in, or are scheduled to leave, that country. Even if your passport hasn't technically expired, you could still be denied entry or stopped from boarding your flight if it's set to expire within that six-month window.
While that might seem like a long lead time, it's meant to protect travellers from unexpected issues like medical emergencies, flight cancellations, or other delays that could extend your stay in the country.
How to renew a Canadian passport
Renewing your Canadian passport can be done in a few different ways, depending on how quickly you need it. One of the simplest options is to apply by mail, which works well if you're not in a rush to get your new passport. Mail-in renewals currently take about 20 business days to process, plus a few days extra for delivery.
To begin the process, you'll need to complete the simplified adult passport renewal application. This can be filled out online and printed. To complete the form, you'll need a few key details: the date your passport was issued, the date it expired (or will expire), your passport number, and two identical passport photos. The back of one photo must include the photographer's name, address, and the date the photo was taken.
You don't need a guarantor to renew your passport, but you will need two references. These must be people who have known you for at least two years, are not family members, and can be contacted if needed.
If your travel date is coming up soon, you might want to apply in person. Walk-in service is available at many passport offices, but be prepared for possible wait times. Booking an appointment is the best way to ensure you'll be seen the same day.
There are faster options available if you're on a tighter timeline. Express pick-up service has a processing time of two to nine business days, but you'll need to visit a passport office that offers it. You may also be asked to prove that you need the passport urgently.
If you're under serious time pressure, you can request the urgent pick-up option. This allows you to receive your passport by the end of the next business day. Again, you'll need to visit a passport office that offers urgent service and provide valid proof of urgency, such as confirmed travel plans.
There's also a new option now being rolled out — online passport renewals. If you don't need your passport for at least 20 business days, you may be eligible to apply online. Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) is currently accepting a limited number of online applications each day.
Before starting your application, it's a good idea to visit the Government of Canada website. They'll walk you through the steps and help determine which application method is best for you based on how soon you need your passport and where you're applying from.
How much does it cost to renew a Canadian passport?
The cost to renew a Canadian passport depends on the type of passport you choose and how quickly you need it. In 2025, a five-year adult passport costs $120, while a 10-year adult passport is $160.
If you're renewing under normal circumstances, those are the only fees you'll pay. However, additional charges apply if you need faster service or are replacing a lost or stolen passport.
If your passport has been lost or stolen, there's an extra $45 fee on top of the regular renewal cost. If you need your passport urgently (within one business day), you'll pay an extra $110 for urgent pickup. Express pickup, which delivers your passport in two to nine business days, costs an additional $50. Standard pickup, where you collect your passport on or after 10 business days, comes with a $20 fee.
Earlier this month, the federal government introduced a new guarantee for passport processing times. If you submit a complete passport application online, by mail, or in person, the government now promises it will be processed within 30 business days. If they miss that deadline, you'll automatically get a full refund of your passport fees. Keep in mind, though, that this 30-day period only covers processing time and does not include mailing or delivery time.
Wherever you jet off to, safe travels Canada!
Before you get going, check out our Responsible Travel Guide so you can be informed, be safe, be smart, and most of all, be respectful on your adventure.