📄 Replace Damaged Passport Canada: Step-by-Step Guide for 2025

If your Canadian passport has been damaged, such as torn pages, water damage, or faded photos, it’s considered invalid, and you’ll need to replace your damaged passport before traveling internationally.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through:

• How to replace a damaged Canadian passport
• Required forms and documents
• Where to submit your application
• Processing times and fees
• And much more!

Let’s dive into everything you need to know about replacing a damaged Canadian passport.

⚠️ Is a Damaged Passport Still Valid?

No—a damaged Canadian passport is no longer valid for international travel. If your passport is:

• Torn or missing pages
• Water-damaged or stained
• Faded or unreadable
• Altered in any way

You must apply for a replacement passport using Form PPTC 056, the same form used for lost or stolen passports.

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✍️ Which Form to Use When Replacing a Damaged Passport

To replace a damaged Canadian passport, use Form PPTC 056 – Application for a Passport (Adults 16 Years of Age or Older).

This applies whether you’re applying for the first time, renewing, or replacing a lost, stolen, or damaged passport.

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📎 What Documents Are Needed to Replace a Damaged Canadian Passport

When you’re ready to replace a damaged passport, Canada, make sure to include:

• The damaged passport itself (if available)
• A written explanation of how the damage occurred
• Two identical passport-style photos that meet IRCC requirements
• Proof of Canadian citizenship (birth certificate, Certificate of Citizenship)
• Valid government-issued photo ID (driver’s license, PR card)

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🖼️ Passport Photo Requirements for Replacement Applications

Photos submitted with your damaged passport replacement application must meet strict guidelines to ensure clarity and consistency.

Key requirements include:

• Taken within the last 6 months
• Show full face, eyes open, no expression
• Plain white or light-colored background
• Must measure 50 mm x 70 mm

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💰 Fees for Replacing a Damaged Canadian Passport

As of 2025, the cost to replace a damaged Canadian passport depends on the service type selected.

Some applicants also choose expedited courier return services for an extra fee.

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📍 Where to Submit Your Damaged Passport Replacement Application

You cannot mail your damaged passport replacement application directly to IRCC—you must submit it at a Service Canada center or through a participating post office (for renewal cases only).

For damaged passports, in-person submission is recommended to explain the situation clearly.

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⏱️ How Long Does It Take to Replace a Damaged Canadian Passport?

Processing times vary based on where and how you apply.

As of 2025:

• Mail-in applications: 10–20 business days
• In-person standard service: 10–20 business days
• Urgent service (at Service Canada): 1–2 business days

Delays may occur if additional verification is required due to the damage.

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🧑‍🤝‍🧑 Can You Replace a Damaged Canadian Passport by Mail?

Yes—but only if you’re eligible for mail-in passport renewal. Most damaged passport replacements require in-person submission to verify the condition and authenticity of the document.

If you’re submitting by mail, be sure to:

• Include a detailed explanation of the damage
• Provide updated photos and identification
• Pay the correct fees and use tracking for your envelope

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🧾 Steps to Replace a Damaged Canadian Passport

Here’s how to replace a damaged Canadian passport correctly:

1. Download Form PPTC 056 from IRCC’s official website.
2. Fill out all sections legibly in black ink.
3. Attach two acceptable passport-style photos.
4. Include your damaged passport along with a brief explanation.
5. Bring or mail your application to an authorized passport office or post office.
6. Pay the applicable fee and provide proof of citizenship and identity.

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🤝 Do You Need Both Parents to Replace a Minor’s Damaged Passport?

If you’re replacing a damaged passport for a minor, both parents typically need to provide consent unless there is a court order or custody agreement indicating sole custody.

You may need to submit:

• Birth certificate or adoption papers
• Custody documents
• Government-issued ID for both parents

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🌐 Can You Travel While Waiting for a New Passport?

No, you cannot travel internationally while waiting for your damaged passport replacement from Canada to arrive.

If you have urgent travel plans, consider visiting a Service Canada urgent passport office and paying for expedited service.

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📦 How to Ship Your Damaged Passport Replacement Safely

If you’re mailing your damaged passport replacement application, always use tracked shipping to ensure safe delivery.

Include:

• A copy of your completed application
• Payment confirmation
• Updated photos
• Explanation of damage
• Return address and contact information

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📞 Getting Help With a Damaged Passport Replacement

If you’re unsure how to proceed or what documents to bring, help is available through:

• Service Canada offices
• IRCC call centers
• Post offices offering passport services

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🧑‍🤝‍🧑 Lost or Stolen Passports vs Damaged Passports

While the process is similar, damaged passport replacement Canada differs slightly from lost or stolen passport replacement.

• For damaged passports, you can usually show the physical damage as part of your application.
• For lost or stolen passports, you may need to file a police report or provide additional documentation.

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🧩 What If You Don’t Have Any Proof of Citizenship?

If your damaged passport was your only proof of citizenship, you may need to apply for a Certificate of Canadian Citizenship before proceeding with your passport application.

You’ll need to submit additional evidence such as:

• Hospital birth records
• Baptismal certificates
• School records
• Parental identification and statements

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🧑‍⚖️ Legal Help With Damaged Passport Cases

If your damaged passport replacement Canada case involves complex issues, such as name changes, unclear damage, or missing documents, you may benefit from consulting an immigration lawyer or certified consultant.

They can help with:

• Interpreting unusual cases
• Submitting complete applications
• Appealing rejections or delays

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🧾 Checklist for Replacing a Damaged Canadian Passport

Use this quick checklist when submitting your damaged passport replacement Canada application:

✅ Completed PPTC 056 form
✅ Two identical passport-style photos
✅ Original or certified copies of proof of Canadian citizenship
✅ Valid government-issued photo ID
✅ Payment of applicable fees
✅ Mailing envelope with tracking (if sending by mail)

This helps reduce delays and improve your chances of approval.

🌍 Replacing a Damaged Canadian Passport From Outside Canada

If you’re currently outside Canada and your Canadian passport is damaged, you can apply for a replacement at any Canadian embassy, high commission, or consulate.

Steps include:

1. Booking an appointment at the nearest Canadian mission
2. Bring your damaged passport and citizenship documents
3. Submitting a new application and payment

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🧠 Real-Life Scenarios and Common Questions

Scenario 1: Returning From Abroad

Your passport got soaked during a trip, and now it’s unreadable. You’ll need to apply for a replacement at a Canadian embassy before flying back.

Scenario 2: Minor Damage

A page came loose, but it isn’t torn—should you still replace it? Yes, because even minor damage can result in denied entry at foreign borders.

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📅 Final Thoughts: Replacing a Damaged Canadian Passport Made Easy

Replacing a damaged Canadian passport might seem like a hassle, but with the right documents and preparation, the process can be smooth and stress-free.

From understanding which form to use to knowing what documents are required and avoiding common mistakes, this guide covers the essentials to help you navigate the world of Canadian passport replacement with confidence.

With careful planning and attention to detail, your journey to getting a new passport will be quick, legal, and hassle-free.

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