How to Renew Canadian Passport While Living in US
Renewing your Canadian passport while living in the United States can be a straightforward process, but it’s important to follow the correct steps to ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience. Whether your passport is about to expire or you need to update your personal information, here’s a guide on how to renew your Canadian passport while living in the US.
1. Check Passport Expiry Date
The first step in renewing your Canadian passport is to check the expiry date on your current passport. If your passport is set to expire within the next 12 months, it’s a good idea to start the renewal process. This will ensure that you have enough time to receive your new passport before your current one expires.
2. Gather Required Documents
When renewing your Canadian passport, you will need to gather certain documents. These typically include a valid Canadian passport, a completed passport application form, a recent color photograph that meets the passport photo requirements, and proof of your Canadian citizenship. For adults, this may include a birth certificate, citizenship card, or a previous Canadian passport. For minors, you may need a birth certificate, citizenship card, or a previous Canadian passport, along with consent from both parents or legal guardians.
3. Complete the Passport Application Form
Visit the Government of Canada’s official website to download and complete the passport application form. Ensure that you fill out all the required information accurately and sign the form. If you are renewing a child’s passport, you will need to fill out a separate form for them.
4. Submit Your Application
There are two ways to submit your passport application while living in the US: in person or by mail. If you choose to submit your application in person, you can visit a Passport Canada office or a participating Service Canada office. If you prefer to mail your application, ensure that you send it to the correct address, as there are different mailing addresses for different regions in the US.
5. Pay the Passport Fee
Once you have submitted your application, you will need to pay the passport fee. The fee amount depends on the type of passport you are applying for and whether you are applying in person or by mail. You can pay the fee using a credit card, debit card, or a money order made payable to ” Receiver General for Canada.” If you are applying in person, you can pay the fee at the time of submission. If you are mailing your application, you will need to include the payment with your application.
6. Track Your Application
After submitting your application, you can track its progress online using the Passport Canada tracking tool. This will allow you to stay informed about the status of your application and receive updates on when your new passport will be ready for pickup or delivery.
By following these steps, you can easily renew your Canadian passport while living in the US. Remember to start the process well in advance of your current passport’s expiry date to avoid any inconvenience.