Feds move to make renewing passports simpler

Anthony Rota, M.P. Nipissing-Timiskaming
News Release

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The Simplified Passport Renewal Program will be available as of August 15, 2007, and is part of a broader effort to modernize Canadian passport services. Nipissing-Timsikaming MP Anthony Rota says that he hopeful that the renewal program will save time for applicants and enhance Passport Canada’s productivity.

“As more and more Canadians recognize the need for holding a valid passport, this program is designed to simplify the renewal process for applicants and help Passport Canada to cope with increased demand,” says Mr. Rota.

Mr. Rota estimates that his office receives approximately 40 passport applications each day, which are then sent to Passport Canada for processing. The average processing time is currently 10-12 weeks, and the MP says that he has been pushing hard to see this wait time decreased.

“By simplifying the passport renewal process, the end goal is to enhance Passport Canada’s overall efficiency,” says Mr. Rota. “There is still a lot of improvement to be made, but this is an important first step.”

The Simplified Passport Renewal Program will allow Canadian citizens who meet certain eligibility criteria to renew their passport using a shorter form and without submitting documentary evidence of citizenship, supplementary identification and a guarantor declaration. Under the renewal program, passport applicants will only be required to submit the shorter form along with two new photos, the application fee and their passport.

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