How Fast Can You Get a Canadian Passport? Urgent and Expedited Processing in Canada and Abroad

Emergencies can happen anytime, especially when you’re on the move. If you ever lose your passport at a critical moment, getting a passport processed quickly could be your lifesaver. But, how long does an emergency passport take in Canada? Can you get a temporary Canadian passport abroad? And how much is an urgent passport in Canada?

This guide answers all these questions and gives instructions on how to get an urgent passport in Canada or abroad. You'll also find useful tips for speeding up the process by taking a professional passport photo at home.

Table of contents

• Standard passport processing times in Canada
• Urgent VS Express passports: the difference
• Emergency (temporary) passport rules and restrictions
• Canada passport processing times abroad
• Emergency passport outside and within Canada: how to apply for a temporary travel document?
• Documents required for an emergency passport application
• Canada passport photo format
• Get a passport-sized photo for a Canadian passport application online!
• Canada Passport Photo App
• How much do expedited and urgent services cost?
• FAQ

Standard passport processing times in Canada

In Canada, the usual waiting time for a standard passport is about 20 business days, which is roughly four weeks.

Urgent VS Express passports: the difference

Urgent and express passport services in Canada differ mainly in their speed, cost, and requirements:

Urgent passport service

This is the quickest option. By applying in person at a passport office that provides urgent pick-up services, the Canadian passport urgent processing time is typically by the end of the next business day. This option requires that you visit the office, show proof of travel for an urgent passport or provide a reason for urgency, and pay an extra USD 110 on top of the regular passport fee. It’s perfect for sudden travel plans, emergencies, or if your passport is lost or stolen and needs a quick replacement.

Urgent passport in Canada: reasons

• Needing to travel during weekends or public holidays when regular services aren't available.
• Immediate travel due to a sudden illness or family bereavement.
• Quick replacement of a lost, stolen, or damaged passport.
• Unexpected business trips or urgent travel requiring a passport within 2 business days.
• Other verified emergencies that can't be delayed.

Express passport service

While not as fast as the Canadian emergency passport services, this option is still quicker than the regular process. Passports are typically ready in 2 to 9 business days. You can apply by either walking in or scheduling an appointment at a passport office. The express service comes with an additional fee of USD 50 on top of the regular charge. It's ideal for those who need their passport quicker than the standard 20 business days, but don’t need it as immediately as the urgent service allows.

Emergency (temporary) passport rules and restrictions

In Canada, emergency (temporary) passports come with specific rules and restrictions, meant for short-term urgent travel:

Purpose and distribution
These temporary passports are provided by Canadian missions overseas for immediate, proven travel needs or residency matters. They are short-term solutions and do not replace regular, diplomatic, or special passports. The issuance of these passports is at the discretion of a Government of Canada passport or consular officer.

Validity period
Temporary passports are valid only for the period of your travel, with a maximum span of one year. They are non-renewable under any circumstances.

Exchange agreement
Upon receiving a temporary passport, you must agree to exchange it for a regular, diplomatic, or special passport within 60 calendar days at a specified location, which cannot be altered.

Exchange process
You can exchange these passports in person or by mail at a Canadian mission abroad or at a passport office in Canada. An exchange fee of CAD 20 applies. An authorized representative with valid ID and written permission can also handle the exchange on your behalf.

Usage restrictions
These passports do not substitute regular ones and should only be used for urgent travel. They cannot be renewed, and if the regular passport is not collected, it will be kept by the government.

Cost and eligibility
Temporary passports come with a fee and are issued only when there is a verified urgent need, as determined by consulate or embassy staff. They are not meant for non-urgent travel and do not take the place of a regular passport.

Which countries do not accept emergency passports? — While most countries accept emergency passports, some, like France and the United Arab Emirates, might have restrictions. These restrictions often relate to visa requirements or security features. Always check with the embassy or consulate of the destination country before travelling with a Canadian emergency or temporary passport.

Canada passport processing times abroad

When applying for a Canadian passport from abroad, the process generally takes around 20 business days, similar to the standard time in Canada, not including mailing delays.

Some embassies and consulates may offer express or urgent services. Express services usually take 2 to 9 business days, while urgent services may be completed by the next business day, although these options incur additional fees.

Emergency passport outside and within Canada: how to apply for a temporary travel document?

Here is how to apply for a Canadian temporary passport:

1. If you're outside Canada: To apply for a Canadian emergency passport abroad, start by reaching out to the nearest Canadian embassy or consulate to verify your eligibility and learn about the specific application process, as Canadian emergency passport fees and payment methods might differ by location. Wait for official instructions before paying any fees.
   How to get an emergency passport in Canada? If you're within the country, visit a Passport Canada office or a Service Canada Centre that offers urgent or express services to apply
2. Provide evidence of your urgent travel or residency need, such as flight tickets or a travel itinerary, along with proof that you cannot use your current passport due to it being lost, stolen, or otherwise unavailable.
3. Submit all the required documents, which are detailed further in this article.
4. Schedule and attend an appointment at the embassy or consulate to hand in your application and pay the necessary urgent Canadian passport fees.
5. Collect your temporary passport or emergency travel document. You'll be required to sign an agreement promising to exchange your temporary passport for a regular one within 60 days at a designated location.

How long does it take to get an emergency passport in Canada? — You can get your passport by the end of the next business day if you apply in person at a passport office offering urgent service and provide proof of urgent travel.

Documents required for an emergency passport application

To apply for a temporary passport in Canada, you will typically need to provide the following documents:

• A completed passport application form.
• A declaration form if your passport is lost or stolen.
• Two passport photos that meet Canadian guidelines.
• Evidence of your urgent travel needs, like flight tickets or a travel itinerary.
• A police report if your passport was lost or stolen (this is optional but helpful).
• Valid identification and proof of your Canadian citizenship.

Canada passport photo format

For a Canadian passport, your photos should meet these specifications:

• The photo size must be 50×70 mm.
• Your face, from chin to the top of your head, must measure between 31 mm (1¼ inches) and 36 mm in height.
• The background should be plain white or light-colored to create contrast, making your facial features clearly visible.
• Keep a neutral expression with your mouth closed (smiling is not allowed).
• Your head should be centred and looking straight at the camera, with eyes wide open and clearly visible.
• Avoid tinted eyeglasses; prescription glasses are fine as long as there's no glare or reflection.
• Head coverings for religious or medical reasons are permitted, provided they don't hide your facial features.
• Ensure the photos were taken within the last six months to reflect your current appearance.

Here is a photo example:

Get a passport-sized photo for a Canadian passport application online!

Wondering how to take a reliable photo for a Canadian passport application? Due to the strict specifications required, using an online service is a smart choice. Visafoto, an online tool that's been in operation since 2013, knows the specific requirements for passports, visas, driving licenses, and more from around the world.

With Visafoto, you can snap a picture suitable for a Canadian passport from anywhere globally. Just follow the guidelines, upload your photo, and let Visafoto handle the sizing and background adjustments for you.

Your original photo can look like this:

You'll get both a digital copy for online submissions and a version ready for print. If you’re dissatisfied with your result, we offer a free replacement photo. Plus, if your photo is rejected, we guarantee a full refund.

Canada Passport Photo App

Another handy tool for creating Canadian passport photos is the 7ID app, brought to you by Visafoto.com. This user-friendly app streamlines the process of generating ID, passport, and visa photos right from your smartphone. It supports both iPhone and Android devices, making it accessible for everyone.

With 7ID, simply upload your photo and choose the type of document and the country you need it for. The app automatically tweaks your photo to align with official guidelines, ensuring the correct size, format, background colour, and centring of your face and eye line. You'll receive a digital copy as well as a print-ready template that fits common paper sizes like 10x15, A4, A5, or B5.

If you have any questions or need assistance, our technical support team is available around the clock to help you out.

How much do expedited and urgent services cost?

What is the cost of an emergency passport in Canada? If you need your Canadian passport in a hurry, expedited services come with additional charges on top of the regular fees:

The Canada emergency passport fee consists of:

• Additional fee: CAD 110.
• Plus regular passport fee:
  • 10-year adult passport: CAD 160.
  • 5-year adult passport: CAD 120.
  • Child passport: CAD 57.

Replacement of lost/stolen passport:

• Add CAD 45 to the above fees if you are replacing a lost or stolen passport.

FAQ

Can I get a Canadian passport the same day?

While you can't get a Canadian passport on the same day, using the Canadian urgent passport service can allow you to receive it by the end of the next business day. This requires applying in person, presenting proof of urgent travel, and paying an extra fee. Be aware that same-day service is not guaranteed due to potential processing or security issues.

Can I use a Canadian emergency passport to enter the USA?

Canadian emergency passports may be accepted for entry into the United States, but it’s not guaranteed. It's important to check with U.S. border authorities before travelling, especially if you plan to enter under the Visa Waiver Program, which mandates an e-passport.

Do I need a guarantor for an emergency passport?

Yes, a guarantor is generally needed if you're applying for an emergency passport for the first time or cannot renew your existing passport. The guarantor must be a Canadian citizen, at least 18 years old, who has known you personally for two or more years and has a valid Canadian passport. If you can't find a guarantor, opt for a Statutory Declaration in Lieu of Guarantor form, which must be sworn before a qualified official.

How do I replace a lost emergency passport?

To replace a lost emergency passport, report the loss to Passport Canada or the nearest Canadian embassy/consulate right away. Fill out a new passport application and a statutory declaration for the lost document. Also, provide proof of citizenship, identity, and two passport photos. Submit your application in person and pay the necessary fees.

Can I convert an emergency or temporary passport into a full passport later?

You can't directly convert an emergency or temporary Canadian passport into a regular one. Instead, you need to exchange it for a full-validity passport within a set period, usually within 60 days of issue, as per the exchange agreement signed when receiving the temporary passport.

Can I apply for a Canadian passport on the weekend or a holiday?

Typically, passport applications can't be processed on weekends or public holidays, as passport offices and Service Canada Centres are closed. However, emergency passport services are available around the clock for urgent needs, including weekends and holidays. To access assistance, call the emergency passport line at 1-800-567-6868 within Canada.

Can children get an emergency Canadian passport?

Yes, children can be issued emergency Canadian passports if urgent travel is necessary. Applications must include specific documents related to the child’s citizenship, guardianship, and the reason for urgent travel. The involvement of parents or legal guardians is required in the application process.

Are passport photos required for emergency applications?

Yes, you must provide two identical passport photos that meet the official Canadian passport photo criteria with every application, including for emergency or temporary passports.