If you’ve got international travel on the books — whether for a last-minute summer trip or an upcoming fall getaway — the Canadian government wants you to take a closer look at your passport before heading to the airport.
In a recent reminder, officials urged travellers to ensure their passports are valid for at least six months past their travel date. And it’s not just a suggestion — more than 70 countries now require it as a condition of entry.
Places like the Dominican Republic, the Bahamas, India, and Antigua and Barbuda, among many others, all follow this so-called “six-month rule,” meaning you could be denied boarding or entry if your passport doesn’t meet the cutoff.
Other countries, including Saint Lucia, France, Portugal, and most of Europe, require your passport to be valid for at least three months beyond your trip. So if you’re planning a Euro trip during shoulder season, don’t let a borderline expiry date throw your plans off track.
The exact date varies depending on the country: some require a period of validity past your arrival date, while others require it past your departure date. So, check the specific entry and exit requirements at your destination if you’re cutting it close.
The purpose of these rules is to prevent travellers from overstaying or facing legal issues if plans get disrupted. It’s a small detail that could seriously mess up your trip — and it’s one many people overlook until it’s too late.
If your passport is set to expire within that three- or six-month window, you could be denied boarding — or worse, entry — when you arrive. That means it’s smart to renew early. Officials recommend starting the passport renewal process about six months before the expiry date that in your passport, especially during high-demand travel periods (like summer!).
So before you start packing, double-check your expiry date. It might save you a lot more than just airport stress.
If you don’t currently have a valid passport or need one for a child, Citizens’ Services Minister Terry Beech advises applying well ahead of time. You can book an appointment via eServiceCanada or try a walk-in at a nearby Service Canada location.
The best way for you to apply depends on your timeline. If you’re not travelling immediately, you can submit your application by mail or visit a Service Canada Centre.
If you’re flying out within a few weeks, consider a location that processes applications within 10 business days. However, note that you’ll need to pick it up in person to avoid any possible postage delays.
Anybody travelling in less than two weeks will need urgent or express service, and you’ll have to show proof of travel. The government’s website outlines the steps and requirements for these faster services.
Already applied but facing delays? You can request to pick up your passport by calling Service Canada or visiting in person — just be sure to bring proof of travel and be prepared for possible fees.
No matter where you’re headed, make sure your travel documents are squared away. It could be the difference between wheels up and a ruined vacation!
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