Check processing times for passport services
We try our best to meet our current service standards. We deliver over 99% of passports on time or earlier. The processing times are based on how you applied and if you asked for express or urgent service.
Your application processing time:
- starts once we have received your application form and all supporting documents
- only applies if the application is properly completed
- doesn’t include mailing time
A small number of cases may need more processing time for:
- security checks
- citizenship checks
Processing times for passport applications submitted in Canada
- in person at a passport office: 10 business days
- in person at a Service Canada receiving agent: 20 business days
- by mail: 20 business days
This doesn’t include mailing time.
Urgent and express service submitted at a passport office
You must apply for urgent and express services in person. These services aren't available at all locations. Check the service location map to find out which passport offices offer the service you need.
You need proof of travel for urgent service. You may also need this proof for express service. Additional fees apply.
Service Standards for urgent and express service :
- urgent pick-up: by the end of the next business day
- express pick-up: 2 to 9 business days
We try our best to meet our service standards but we aren’t liable for any losses as a result of the passport not being issued or delivered to you or your child in time for your travel. We recommend you don’t finalize any travel plans until you get the passport issued to you.
Applications submitted in the United States
If you live in the United States you can submit a passport application by:
- mail or
- travelling to Canada and submitting your application at a:
- passport office or
- Service Canada receiving agent service location
Processing time for mailed applications from the United States is 20 business days. This doesn’t include mailing time. Passports are printed in Canada.
Mailing time varies by region, therefore you should factor in additional time when applying for a passport.
If you need a passport urgently or in certain circumstances (such as illness or death), contact the nearest Government of Canada office abroad. Additional fees apply.
Applications submitted outside Canada and the United States
If you are outside Canada and the United States, you must submit your application:
- to the nearest Government of Canada office abroad (by mail or in person) or
- by travelling to Canada and submitting your application in person at a passport office
Processing time for applications submitted outside Canada is 20 business days. This doesn’t include mailing time. Passports are printed in Canada.
Mailing time varies by region, therefore you should factor in additional time when applying for a passport. You may also check what local processing times are at your nearest Government of Canada office abroad.
If you need a passport urgently or in certain circumstances (such as illness or death), contact the nearest Government of Canada office abroad. Additional fees apply.
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