The Government of Canada has announced a new accountability measure aimed at improving passport services, introducing a “30 days or free” guarantee for applicants.
Effective April 1, 2026, the policy ensures that individuals applying for passports or travel documents will receive a full refund of their application fee if processing exceeds 30 business days. The announcement was made by Lena Metlege Diab, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship.
Under the new system, refunds will be issued automatically if service standards are not met. Processing time will be calculated from the moment a complete application is received to when the passport or travel document is printed and verified, excluding mailing time. A complete application must include a properly filled form, all required documents—such as compliant passport photographs—and full payment of fees.
The initiative establishes a consistent benchmark for all applicants, regardless of how they submit their application. While most passport requests are already processed within existing service timelines, the government says applicants deserve compensation when delays occur.
“This new refund policy reflects our commitment to maintaining excellence in our passport delivery system,” said Diab, emphasizing the government’s focus on efficiency and service improvements.
Echoing the sentiment, Patty Hajdu, Minister of Jobs and Families, noted that timely services help Canadians avoid disruptions such as taking time off work or arranging childcare. She added that the guarantee reinforces accountability within Service Canada.
Current service standards for passport applications range from 10 to 20 business days, depending on where and how applications are submitted, including at Service Canada Centres, by mail, or through embassies and consulates.
However, the new policy will not apply to certain administrative services, such as replacements or certified copies, nor to child refugee travel documents and certificates of identity. Urgent and express services will continue to follow existing refund rules if timelines are not met. Additionally, exceptions may apply in extraordinary circumstances that impact operations.
The government says the move is part of broader efforts to make passport services more reliable, predictable, and user-friendly for Canadians.
