If you’re an Indian citizen living in Canada, you may find yourself needing to renew your Indian passport at some point. Whether your current passport is nearing its expiration date or has already expired, it’s important to know the process of renewing your passport so you can continue to travel to and from India hassle-free. In this step-by-step guide, we will walk you through the process of renewing your Indian passport in Canada, including the required documents and how to book an appointment. So if you’re wondering how to renew Indian passport in Canada, keep reading for all the information you need.
Introduction
Your Indian passport is a valuable document that serves as your primary identification and travel document when residing in Canada. Maintaining a valid passport is crucial, as it not only establishes your identity but also facilitates your movement and interactions within the country and beyond.
Importance of Renewing Indian Passport in Canada
As an Indian national residing in Canada, it is vital to renew your passport before its expiration date. A valid passport ensures you can easily return to India, access consular services, and engage in various official and personal activities that require proof of identity. Neglecting to renew your passport in a timely manner can lead to significant inconveniences and potential complications when traveling or conducting official business.
Overview of the Renewal Process
The process of renewing your Indian passport in Canada involves several steps, including submitting an online application, printing the form, and then providing the required documents in person at a designated BLS International centre. BLS International is the sole authorized service provider for consular services on behalf of the Consulate of India in Canada. It is important to follow the guidelines closely and ensure all necessary information and documents are provided to ensure a smooth and timely renewal process.
Additionally, it is crucial to be aware of any changes or updates to the renewal process, as the Consulate may modify requirements or procedures from time to time. Staying informed and complying with the latest instructions can help avoid delays or issues during the passport renewal journey.
Eligibility Criteria for Passport Renewal
To renew an Indian passport in Canada, an applicant must hold an Indian passport and have a valid status in Canada, such as a visitor permit, study permit, work permit, or permanent residency. The applicant must also reside within the consular jurisdiction of the Indian Consulate providing the passport renewal service.
Applicants Holding Visitor/Study/Work Permit or PR
Depending on the applicant’s legal status in Canada, the validity period of the renewed passport will vary. Those holding a visitor permit, whether adult or minor, will be issued a passport valid for 2 years or until the applicant turns 18, whichever is earlier. Applicants with a study permit, work permit, or permanent residency will be eligible for a 10-year passport if they are adults, or a 5-year passport if they are minors.
Validity Period of Renewed Passports
It is important to note that a new passport is required when the existing one has completed its validity period of 10 years for adults and 5 years for minors, from the date of issue. Additionally, a new passport booklet may be needed if there are changes to the holder’s basic details, such as name or appearance, or if all pages in the current passport have been used.
Applicants are advised to apply for passport renewal up to one year before the expiry date, particularly if their current passport has less than 6 months of validity remaining.
How to Renew Indian Passport in Canada?
1. Documents Required for Regular Renewal
To renew your Indian passport in Canada, you’ll need to submit a duly filled online application form, a recent photograph, your original passport, and copies of the first and last pages of your current passport. Additionally, you’ll need to provide a copy of your valid legal status in Canada, such as a PR card, study permit, work permit, or visitor record. Copies of your landing paper or Confirmation of Permanent Residence (CoPR), proof of your Canadian address, and proof of your Indian address are also required. The Annexure E form and Personal Particulars Form with photo must also be included.
2. Additional Documents for Specific Cases
If you’re a minor with a single parent due to divorce or death, you’ll need to provide a divorce certificate or death certificate for the deceased parent, as well as a custody order from an Indian court. In the case of a minor child with both parents residing outside Canada, an attested Annexure ‘D’ or Annexure ‘C’ form is required. For lost or damaged passports, you’ll need to submit Annexure F along with a police report clearly mentioning the lost passport details.
3. Online Application Submission
The first step is to fill and submit the application form online. Once you’ve completed the online form, you’ll need to take a printout and submit the hard copy, along with the required photographs and supporting documents, at the nearest BLS Centre.
4. Printing and Submitting Hard Copy at BLS Center
Please note that the Consulate does not allow walk-in appointments. Applications are only accepted through BLS Centres. You’ll need to submit the hard copy of the application with all relevant documents at the nearest BLS Centre. Alternatively, you can also send the application by post to BLS, but make sure to check the BLS website for eligibility. All postal applications must be submitted to the BLS Brampton address.
BLS Centers for Passport Submission
The Indian passport renewal process in Canada is facilitated through the network of BLS International centers across the country. These authorized service providers accept passport applications and ensure the smooth execution of the renewal procedure.
Location and Contact Details
The BLS centers located in Toronto, Brampton, Mississauga, Winnipeg, and Halifax are designated to accept passport renewal applications. Applicants can visit the nearest BLS center to submit their documents and complete the required formalities.
| City | BLS Center Address | Contact Details |
|---|---|---|
| Toronto | 365 Bloor Street East, Suite 2100, Toronto, ON M4W 3L4 | Tel: +1 (416) 800-7180 |
| Brampton | 8100 Hurontario Street, Suite 201, Brampton, ON L6Y 0C7 | Tel: +1 (905) 799-4943 |
| Mississauga | 2920 Matheson Blvd E, Suite 200, Mississauga, ON L4W 5J4 | Tel: +1 (905) 361-2606 |
| Winnipeg | 1305 Portage Avenue, Suite 18, Winnipeg, MB R3G 0V3 | Tel: +1 (204) 779-0740 |
| Halifax | 1718 Argyle Street, Suite 730, Halifax, NS B3J 3N6 | Tel: +1 (902) 422-0081 |
For any services at BLS centres, an appointment is necessary. Applicants can book an appointment on the BLS website. Issued passports can be collected from the BLS Center, and applicants can also opt for postal delivery to their home address by paying the applicable fees.
Fees for Passport Renewal
When renewing your Indian passport in Canada, the fees can vary depending on the type of passport you require. It’s essential to be aware of the applicable fees to ensure a smooth and hassle-free renewal process.
Fee Structure Based on Passport Type
The fees for a regular 36-page passport, Tatkal (expedited) passport, and 60-page jumbo passport are as follows:
| Passport Type | Fees (CAD) |
|---|---|
| Regular 36-page Passport | $110 |
| Tatkal (Expedited) Passport | $230 |
| 60-page Jumbo Passport | $160 |
Please note that the fees include the passport fee, consular surcharge, and BLS service charge. It’s important to understand that these fees are non-refundable and non-transferable.
Mode of Payment
For in-person applications at the BLS Centre, you can make your payment either by debit/credit card or cash (exact amount).
If you’re submitting your application by post, the payment must be made by demand draft or money order in favour of BLS International Services Canada Inc. This includes the passport fee, consular fee, BLS service charges, and any applicable return courier fees.
Please note that personal cheques are not acceptable for postal applications.
Processing Time
When it comes to renewing your Indian passport in Canada, the processing time can vary depending on the service you opt for. Let’s explore the details.
Normal Renewal Processing Time
The normal passport renewal processing time is 8 weeks. This timeline starts from the moment the application arrives at the Consulate and does not include any postal delays.
It’s important to note that incomplete applications can lead to delays in the processing of the request. Applicants are advised to ensure that all required documents are submitted and to comply with any changes that may occur during the process.
Tatkal (Expedited) Renewal Processing Time
For those who need their passport renewed more urgently, the Tatkal (expedited) service is available. The Tatkal passport renewal processing time is 1 week.
However, applicants are advised to make their travel arrangements only after receiving the relevant service. BLS International, the authorized service provider, cannot guarantee the processing time beyond the normal 8-week period due to potential clearance reasons.
Conclusion
Renewing your Indian passport in Canada is an essential process to maintain your identity and travel documents. By following the step-by-step guide provided, you can ensure a smooth and hassle-free renewal experience. It is crucial to submit the application with all the required documents and adhere to the guidelines to avoid any delays or issues during the renewal process.
The Consulate and BLS International are the key stakeholders in the passport renewal service, and it is essential to understand their roles and requirements to ensure a successful outcome. With the guidance and information presented in this article, you can navigate the Indian passport renewal process in Canada with confidence and ease.
Remember, staying proactive and diligent throughout the renewal process will help you maintain the validity of your important travel document. By taking the necessary steps and fulfilling the requirements, you can continue to enjoy the privileges and benefits of your Indian passport while living or traveling in Canada.
FAQ
1. What documents do I need to renew my Indian passport in Canada?
The required documents for a normal passport renewal application include: duly filled in online application form, a recent photograph, original passport, copy of first and last page of the current passport, copy of valid legal status in Canada (PR card / study permit / work permit / visitor record), copy of landing paper or CoPR, copy of proof of Canadian address, copy of Indian address proof, Annexure E form, and Personal Particulars Form with photo.
2. Can I renew my Indian passport 2 years before it expires?
Yes, applicant can apply for renewal of passport up till a year before its expiry. It is recommended to necessarily renew passport that has less than 6 months of validity.
3. Is an Indian address mandatory for passport renewal in Canada?
Yes, a copy of Indian address proof is required as one of the mandatory documents for passport renewal in Canada.
4. How do I renew my expired Indian passport in Canada?
For lost/damaged passports, Annexure F along with a Police Report clearly mentioning the lost passport details, are mandatorily required.
5. Where can I submit my Indian passport renewal application in Canada?
The BLS centres located in Toronto, Brampton, Mississauga, Winnipeg, and Halifax accept passport applications. The applicants can book an appointment on the BLS website to submit their application.
6. What is the processing time for Indian passport renewal in Canada?
The normal passport renewal processing time is 8 weeks, and the Tatkal (expedited) passport renewal processing time is 1 week.
