Canada begins "30 days or free" guarantee for passport processing

The Government of Canada says passport applicants will receive a full refund of their fee if it takes more than 30 business days to process their application.

The measure takes effect April 1, 2026, and if processing time exceeds 30 business days, refunds will be issued automatically, according to a press release from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada.

Processing time starts when a complete application is received and ends when the passport or travel document is printed and verified. It does not include mailing time.

A complete application includes a filled-out form, all required documents, such as a passport photo that meets requirements, and the full payment of fees.

“The "30 days or free" guarantee provides a clear and consistent standard for applicants, no matter how they apply. Most passport applications are processed within service standards, but applicants should be compensated when the government does not meet them,” the government says.

This initiative is part of ongoing efforts to improve passport and travel document services, and provide a more consistent and predictable experience for applicants.

"Canadians expect reliable services from their government. While most passports are processed within our service standards, our new refund policy reflects our commitment to maintaining excellence in our passport delivery system. As with all our services and programs, we're focused on maximizing efficiency and making improvements that make a positive difference for people,” said Lena Metlege Diab, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, in a statement.

Service standards for passport applications vary between 10 and 20 business days plus mailing time, depending on the type of Service Canada Centre they apply at, or if they apply at an embassy or consulate, or through the mail.

This policy does not apply to some administrative services, such as replacement, transfer, or true certified copy fees, or to child refugee travel documents and child certificates of identity, as these are considered low in value under the Service Fees Act

It also doesn’t apply to urgent and express services, which have separate, shorter timelines. “If those timelines are not met, fees are refunded under existing authorities,” says the government.

The policy also doesn’t apply to applications processed in exceptional circumstances that may impact operations.

Don't miss a single travel story: subscribe to PAX today!  Click here to follow PAX on Facebook