The cost of a Canadian passport is set to increase by $10 starting on January 1, announced by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). With the increase, adult passports will now cost $160, and child passports will cost $100. The last time the cost of a Canadian passport was increased was in 2013, when it went up by $20.
The decision to raise the cost of Canadian passports comes as a surprise to many, as the cost of passports in Canada is already considered to be on the higher end compared to other countries. However, IRCC has cited rising administrative costs and the need to maintain the security features of Canadian passports as the reasons for the increase.
Canadian passports are known for their high level of security features, which help prevent identity theft and fraud. These features include biometric data such as facial recognition and digital signatures, as well as a polycarbonate data page with multiple layers of security features.
In addition to the increase in cost, IRCC has also announced a new expedited service for passport applications. For an additional fee of $110, Canadians can now choose to have their passport processed in two to nine business days, instead of the standard 20 business days. This new service is aimed at providing faster service to those who require their passports urgently, such as for last-minute travel or emergencies.
The increase in the cost of Canadian passports has sparked mixed reactions among Canadians. Some believe that the increase is justified given the rising costs of maintaining the security features of passports, while others feel that the increase is unnecessary and burdensome for those who need to renew or apply for a passport.
“I understand that maintaining the security features of passports comes with a cost, but I feel that the increase is too much, especially for families with children who need to renew their passports,” said Sarah, a mother of two from Toronto. “It’s already expensive to travel, and this increase just adds to the financial burden.”
On the other hand, some Canadians feel that the increase is reasonable considering the benefits that come with having a Canadian passport. “I think that the increase is justified because Canadian passports are highly regarded around the world for their security features,” said John, a frequent traveler from Vancouver. “Having a Canadian passport gives me peace of mind knowing that my identity is protected when I travel.”
Overall, the increase in the cost of Canadian passports is a sign of the government’s commitment to maintaining the security and integrity of Canadian travel documents. While the increase may be met with some resistance from Canadians, it is important to remember that the cost of passports is necessary to ensure the safety and security of travelers both within Canada and abroad.
