Are you planning a trip abroad but unsure about the passport application process and fees in Canada? Look no further! In this article, we will provide you with all the necessary information regarding how to apply for a passport in Canada, including the different types of passports available. But most importantly, we’ll answer one of the most common questions travellers have: How much is a passport in Canada? Whether you’re an adult or travelling with children, we’ve got you covered with all the details on application fees, payment methods, refunds and more. So let’s get started and make sure your travel plans go smoothly!
Types of Passports in Canada
In Canada, there are three types of passports available: regular, diplomatic and official. The regular passport is the most commonly used and is issued to Canadian citizens for travel purposes. It has a validity period of five or ten years depending on the applicant’s age at the time of issuance.
Diplomatic passports are issued to individuals who hold diplomatic status in Canada and are travelling abroad on official government business. They have similar features as regular passports but with additional benefits such as visa-free entry into some countries.
Official passports, on the other hand, are issued to Canadian officials who represent the government in international affairs. They have limited use compared to regular passports since they can only be used when travelling on official business.
It’s important to note that each type of passport has different application requirements and fees associated with them. Make sure you choose the right type based on your travel needs before applying for one.
How to Apply for a Passport in Canada?
Applying for a passport in Canada is a straightforward process, but it requires attention to detail.
- First, you need to make sure that you have all the required documents before starting your application. This includes proof of citizenship, such as a birth certificate or old passport, and valid photo identification.
- Next, head over to the Government of Canada’s website and download the adult or child General Passport Application Form. You can also get these forms at any Passport Office location across Canada.
- Once you’ve filled out your application form completely, gather all necessary supporting documents and submit them along with your application fee by mail or in person at an authorized service location.
- After submitting your complete application package, expect processing times of up to 20 business days for regular applications and up to 10 business days for urgent ones. Make sure that there are no errors on your application form as this may delay the processing time further.
- Applying for a passport in Canada is simple if you follow these steps carefully. Remember that having all required documents ready beforehand will save both time and stress during the process!
How Much is a Passport in Canada?
If you’re planning to travel abroad as a Canadian citizen, one of the most important documents you need is a passport. But how much does it cost to get a passport in Canada? The answer depends on various factors such as your age and the type of passport you require.
For an adult applicant (16 years and over), a regular 5-year validity passport costs CAD$120 while a 10-year validity one costs CAD$160. Meanwhile, for children (under 16 years old), the fee for a five-year validity passport is CAD$57.
Aside from these basic fees, there are optional services that come with additional charges such as expedited processing or pick-up/delivery services. If you want your application processed faster than usual, you can pay an extra $110 for urgent pickup or delivery service.
It’s also worth noting that the payment method may affect the total amount paid since some options like online payments have lower transaction fees compared to postal orders or bank drafts. Certain individuals could be eligible for exemptions or discounts when applying for their passports under specific conditions such as veteran status or diplomatic immunity.
Getting a Canadian Passport doesn’t have to break your budget but make sure to check all the necessary information before starting your application process.
Adult Passport Application Fees
The application fee will depend on a few factors when applying for an adult passport in Canada.
- Firstly, whether you are applying for a standard 5 or 10-year passport. Secondly, if you need your passport urgently or not.
- A standard adult passport (36 pages) costs CAD 160, and (60 pages) is CAD 260. If you require urgent processing, which takes up to 24 hours, then it will cost an additional CAD 110.
- Suppose you wish to apply for a child’s first or renewal Canadian Passport. In that case, the cost is less than that of an adult’s but still depends on certain factors such as valid identification documents and other requirements.
- It’s important to note that these fees may be subject to change without notice, so it’s best to check the official Government website before filling out your application.
- The process of obtaining a passport can be time-consuming but once received, it gives individuals access to travel abroad safely and easily with their nationality acknowledged by foreign officials at border crossings worldwide.
Child Passport Application Fees
When it comes to applying for a passport for your child in Canada, the fees vary depending on several factors. The standard processing time for a child’s passport is around 20 business days, but if you need it sooner, there are additional fees.
For children under the age of 16, a five-year Passport is issued and costs CAD 57. However, if you wish to have their passport valid for ten years instead of five years, the fee jumps to CAD 100.
Suppose you need expedited service within Canada or from outside of Canada and require urgent travel documents before regular processing resumes due to disruptions such as COVID-19 pandemics or other emergencies. In that case, an extra fee will be charged—CAD 50 per application within Canada and USD 110/ CAD when applying from abroad.
It’s important to note that all applicants under 16 must apply in person with both parents or legal guardians present. If one parent cannot attend due to exceptional circumstances, they can fill out form PPTC 203 stating why they cannot attend. Applying for your child’s passport may seem daunting at first glance, but knowing the applicable fees beforehand can simplify things.
Optional Services and Additional Charges
When applying for a passport in Canada, there are several optional services that you may choose to add to your application. These services come with additional charges and can help expedite the processing time of your passport or provide other conveniences.
- One optional service is the urgent pick-up option, which allows you to receive your passport within 24 hours of it being processed. This service costs an additional CAD 110 on top of the regular application fee.
- Another optional service is the express delivery option, which guarantees that the courier will deliver your passport within two business days after it has been issued. This service costs an extra CAD 20 on top of the regular application fee.
- Suppose you need a visa quickly or have forgotten to apply for one before submitting your passport application. In that case, an urgent visa processing option is available for an extra CAD 50.
- Other optional services include adding more pages to your passport (CAD 82), replacing a lost or stolen passport (CAD 190), and correcting errors made during previous applications ($45-100 CAD).
- It’s important to keep in mind that these fees are subject to change and may vary depending on individual circumstances. Be sure to check with Passport Canada for up-to-date information before submitting your application.
Payment Methods and Refunds
When it comes to paying for your Canadian passport application, there are several payment methods available. These include online payments via credit card or Interac Online and in-person payments at a Service Canada Centre using cash, debit card or credit card. It’s important to note that fees must be paid upfront and cannot be deferred.
If you need to make changes to your application or cancel it altogether after submitting the payment, you may be eligible for a refund. In most cases, refunds will only be granted if the request is made within one year of the original payment date and if no processing has taken place yet.
To request a refund of your passport fees, you’ll need to fill out an Application for Refund form provided by Passport Program. Once completed and submitted along with any required documents, such as proof of payment and identification, your request will be processed within 10 business days.
It’s worth noting that some optional services, such as expedited processing, are not eligible for refunds so it’s essential to read all terms and conditions before making any payments on top of basic processing fees.
Fee Exemptions and Discounts
Applying for a passport in Canada can incur some costs, but fee exemptions and discounts are available to eligible applicants.
- For instance, Canadian Armed Forces personnel on active duty are exempt from paying the passport application fees. Indigenous peoples with Indian status registered under the Indian Act are also exempt from paying the fees.
- Furthermore, certain individuals may be eligible for a reduced fee or discount. For example, children who have previously been issued a five-year passport and were 15 years of age or younger at the time of issuance qualify for a discounted fee when renewing their passport. Additionally, Canadians over 65 years old may apply for a ten-year passport at no additional cost.
- It’s important to note that all exemption and discount requests must be made at the time of application. Applicants should provide supporting documentation to prove eligibility where required.
By taking advantage of these exemptions and discounts, applicants can save money while still obtaining essential travel documents needed for international trips.
Conclusion
In summary, obtaining a passport in Canada involves understanding the different types of passports available and following the application process diligently. The cost of a passport may vary depending on whether it’s for an adult or child and any optional services selected during the application process.
When budgeting for your Canadian passport, take into consideration additional charges such as those related to expedited processing or replacing lost documents. Be sure to explore fee exemptions and discounts if you think you might be eligible. Remember that having a valid passport is essential for international travel and an important piece of identification within Canada.
With this comprehensive guide at hand, applying for and understanding how much a passport costs in Canada should be straightforward and stress-free. Safe travels!
FAQs on how much is a passport in Canada
1. How long does it take to get a Canadian passport?
The estimated processing time for a Canadian passport application was about 20 business days for a standard application. However, please note that processing times may vary depending on various factors, such as the volume of applications received and the time of year.
2. How much is Canadian passport renewal?
Depending on the application you made, you don’t have to pay these fees again: $20 for a five-year adult passport. A 10-year adult passport costs $160. (Child passport) $57.
3. How much does it cost to renew a Canadian passport in 2023?
A basic five-year passport will cost $120 as of 2023, and a 10-year passport will cost $160.
4. What is the easiest way to get a Canadian passport?
The easiest way to get a Canadian passport is to gather all required documents, complete the application accurately, and submit it online or in person at a designated Passport Office or Service Canada location. Ensure that you meet the eligibility criteria and follow the instructions provided by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) to expedite the process.
5. Can I get a passport application at the post office in Canada?
Your customers can get an application form: Anytime, anywhere there is a Passport Programme office, a Canada Post location, a Service Canada center, or a Canadian government agency.
