Canada introduces new “30 days or free” guarantee for passport processing
What changed
Canada will start a new rule on 1 April 2026. This rule is a "30 days or free" promise for passport and travel document processing. If it takes more than 30 business days to process a complete application, applicants will get all their money back. This refund will happen automatically. This rule applies to most passport applications. It aims to make the process more reliable and fair.
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Policy history
Each version stays exactly as it was published. This one is version 2 and sits in a chain of versions you can read separately.
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Related changes
UPDATE: Permits extended until November 30, 2026 – CBSA to enhance border integrity and expand telephone reporting in remote border areas
What changed
The Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) will close the Remote Area Border Crossing (RABC) Programme. This programme will end on 1 December 2026. Now, all people who enter Canada through remote areas of northern Ontario or from the Northwest Angle into southern Manitoba must report to the CBSA. They must report at a port of entry or a special telephone reporting site. Before this change, RABC permits let people enter without directly reporting. Now, reporting by phone or at a physical port of entry is mandatory. To help with this change, all current RABC permits are now valid until 11:59 p.m. on 30 November 2026.
Published 10 Aug 2026Effective 1 Dec 2026Government of Canada — Immigration announcements
India simplifies OCI card reissue after passport renewal
What changed
India has made it simpler to reissue an Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) card after you renew your passport. This means you will need to get your card reissued physically fewer times in your life.
Published 4 Aug 2026IND — News (English)
Canada expands online passport renewal to all eligible adults
What changed
Canada now lets all eligible adult Canadians renew their passport online. They can send their application, photo, and payment through the internet. This makes the process simpler. It means fewer people need to visit offices in person. It helps those who find it hard to go to a service centre.
Published 28 Jul 2026Effective 28 Jul 2026IRCC Newsroom
Canada strengthens regulation of immigration and citizenship consultants
What changed
Canada is putting new rules in place. These rules start on 15 July 2026. They will make the College of Immigration and Citizenship Consultants stronger. The College will improve how it handles complaints and punishes consultants who break rules. Penalties for consultants will be higher. Also, the public list of licensed consultants will show more details starting April 2027. The College will have to report more information. Rules for a fund to pay back people who lose money will be set up. The Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship can step in and take over the College's board duties if needed.
Published 6 May 2026Effective 15 Jul 2026IRCC Newsroom