If you’re planning to renew your Canadian passport online, there’s an important update you should be aware of. Canada has introduced a daily limit (cap) on the number of online passport renewal applications that can be submitted.

Don’t worry, we'll explain everything 

What Does the Daily Cap Mean?

Canada now allows only a certain number of passport renewal applications to be submitted online each day.

Here’s how it works:

  1. You can create your online account at any time.
  2. However, if the daily limit has already been reached, you will not be able to start your passport renewal application that day.
  3. You will need to wait until the system resets.

This cap applies only to online applications.

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When Does the Limit Reset?

The system resets twice daily:

  1. 7:00 AM Eastern Time
  2. 7:00 PM Eastern Time

If you want the best chance of submitting your application online, try logging in exactly at one of these reset times.

Applying right when the limit resets increases your chances of getting through without delays.

Other Ways to Renew Your Passport

The good news is that the daily cap applies only to online renewals.

You can still renew your passport through:

  1. Mail
  2. In-person at a passport office
  3. In-person at a Service Canada centre

These options are not affected by the online limit.

Current Passport Processing Times

Here are the official service standards for passport applications:

  1. Online applications: 20 business days
  2. In-person applications: 10 or 20 business days (depending on the location)
  3. Mail applications: 20 business days

Important: These timelines do not include mailing time. If you apply by mail, delivery time must be added to the total processing period.

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Possible Delays Due to Canada Post

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has stated that passport applications may face delays due to labour disruptions at Canada Post.

This could especially affect applications sent by mail.

If you are on a tight schedule, consider applying in person instead.

What If You Need Your Passport Urgently?

If you have confirmed travel plans in the coming days or weeks and need your passport quickly, you can request expedited processing.

To do this:

  1. Visit a passport centre in person.
  2. Provide proof of urgent travel (such as flight tickets or confirmed bookings).

Without proof of travel, expedited processing may not be granted.

Final Thoughts

Canada’s new daily cap on online passport renewals means applicants need to plan carefully. If you prefer the online route, please apply at 7:00 AM or 7:00 PM Eastern Time.

If you miss the daily limit, you still have reliable options through mail or in-person applications.

The key is to apply early, especially if you have upcoming travel plans.