Why this guide
If your Indian passport is expiring soon—or has fewer than six months left—you should renew it before travel, immigration updates, study/work permit changes, or applying for OCI. This guide explains the Canadian process end-to-end, with a printable checklist and answers to common questions NRIs ask us every day.
Quick facts (Canada)
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Who processes applications: BLS International accepts applications on behalf of Indian missions in Canada.
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When to renew: If your passport has expired or has less than 6 months validity.
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Processing time: Varies by case and jurisdiction. Expect a few weeks; build buffer time.
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After renewal: If you have OCI, you may need an OCI Miscellaneous Service to update your new passport details.
Step-by-step: How to renew your Indian passport in Canada
1) Confirm your jurisdiction
Identify which Indian mission covers your province (High Commission/Consulate General). Your location decides where your file is processed.
2) Fill the online application
Complete the online passport application form accurately. Print it, sign in all required places, and keep your application/file number handy.
3) Prepare your documents
Create a folder with the following (photocopy where noted):
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Printed, signed application form
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Two photos meeting Indian passport specs (see photo section below)
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Current passport (original) plus photocopies of the first and last pages
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Proof of legal status in Canada (PR card, work/study permit, or visitor record)
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Proof of Canadian address (driver’s licence, utility bill, bank statement, etc.)
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Indian address (self/family/friend; used for police/antecedent verification if required)
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Annexure forms or Personal Particulars Form where applicable (e.g., name change, spouse details, minors)
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Any supporting documents for changes (marriage certificate, legal name-change certificate, etc.)
Tip: Keep originals + one photocopy set. Organise with paper clips, not staples.
4) Choose submission mode: in-person or postal
Depending on your location and category, you can submit in-person (appointment or walk-in, as permitted) or by postal application. Postal submission is convenient if you’re far from a BLS centre; follow the packing and courier guidelines carefully.
5) Pay fees
You’ll pay the Government of India fee plus applicable BLS service and optional courier fees. Fees may differ by category (Normal/Tatkaal, adult/minor, changes, etc.). Keep your receipt.
6) Track your file
Use your application/file number to track progress. Processing involves intake at BLS, mission verification/printing, and dispatch/courier. Timelines vary; plan travel only after receiving your new passport.
7) Receive your new passport
When delivered or ready for pickup, verify:
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Name spelling, date/place of birth
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Parents’/spouse details (if listed)
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Passport number, issue/expiry dates
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Signature and photo clarity
Report any discrepancies immediately.
Photo requirements (quick checklist)
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Size: 51 mm x 51 mm (2 x 2 inches)
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Background: Plain white, even lighting, no shadows
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Face: Full frontal, neutral expression, eyes open
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Head coverings: Allowed for religious reasons but must not obscure the face
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Glasses: Generally not allowed (avoid reflections/obstructions)
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Quality: High-resolution print on photo paper, not pixelated or over-edited
Bring a couple of extra copies in case BLS requests replacements.
Special cases
Name change
Include the legal proof (marriage certificate, government name-change certificate, or notarized affidavit as required). Ensure all supporting IDs align with the new name.
Address change
Provide proof of your current Canadian address. If you update your Indian address, be ready with the full address and a local contact for verification if needed.
Minor applicants (under 18)
Both parents’ details and signatures are typically required. Include parents’ passports/status proofs, child’s birth certificate, and any custody documents where applicable.
Passport lost/damaged
File a police report (lost cases) and add the report copy with your application. Damaged passports may require additional forms and scrutiny.
Exhausted pages
If pages are full, you’ll apply for a new booklet. Check the 36-page vs 60-page option based on your travel needs.
Tatkaal (expedited) category
May be available for specific scenarios and jurisdictions. Expect higher fees and additional document checks.
After you renew: Don’t forget OCI updates
If you hold OCI and your passport number has changed, submit an OCI Miscellaneous Service to update your new passport particulars. Timelines for this are separate from passport printing, so plan ahead if you have upcoming travel.
Common mistakes that cause delays
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Incorrect or low-quality photos
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Missing status in Canada or address proofs
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Unattested/insufficient name change documentation
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Using outdated checklists or forgetting signatures
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Not matching application details with supporting documents
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Couriering the original passport without adequate tracking/packaging when using postal mode
Processing time: What to expect
Typical renewals take several weeks, but timing depends on the mission, verification requirements, holidays, and application completeness. Start early—ideally 2–3 months before planned travel.
Fees: What’s included
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Government fee (varies by category)
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BLS service fee
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Optional courier/photocopy/print charges
Confirm the current totals at submission time, as fee schedules can change.
FAQs
1) Can I apply by mail from anywhere in Canada?
In most cases, yes. Postal submission is available subject to the latest rules. Pack documents securely and use trackable courier services.
2) Do I need my original passport?
Yes. The original current passport is required for verification and cancellation/endorsement when issuing the new booklet.
3) My passport is already expired—can I still renew?
Yes. Provide additional proof of identity/status and expect verification. Start as soon as possible.
4) I changed my name after marriage. What else is needed?
Bring the legal proof (marriage certificate or name-change certificate) and ensure your application matches your supporting documents.
5) Do I need to update my OCI after renewal?
If your passport number has changed, submit an OCI Miscellaneous update so your OCI remains valid with your new passport.
6) How long should my passport be valid for travel?
Airlines and many countries expect at least six months validity on the travel date. Renew early to avoid issues.
7) What if my PR/work/study permit is under process?
Include proof of implied status or acknowledgement letters if your Canadian status document is being renewed.
Print-ready checklist
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Application form printed and signed
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Two compliant photos (2x2 inches, white background)
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Original passport + photocopies of first/last pages
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Proof of legal status in Canada
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Canadian address proof
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Indian address and local contact (if needed)
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Annexure/affidavits and supporting documents (name, spouse, minors, lost/damaged)
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Fees ready (Govt + BLS + any courier)
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Courier label/return envelope (if postal)
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Buffer time added to travel plans
How NRI Helpline can help
We handle the paperwork so you don’t have to: document review, error-proof form filling, photo/spec checks, appointment/postal guidance, and post-renewal OCI updates. If you want the process done right the first time, our team is ready to assist across Canada.
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