Question 1

What is the 30 days or free passport guarantee?

Accepted Answer

Effective April 1, 2026, IRCC automatically refunds the passport fee if processing a complete application takes more than 30 business days. Processing is measured from when the complete application is received to when the passport is printed. Mailing time is not included.

Question 2

Does the guarantee apply to every passport application?

Accepted Answer

No. Urgent and express services, replacement documents, transfers, certified copies, child refugee travel documents, and certificates of identity are excluded.

Question 3

How are business days calculated?

Accepted Answer

Business days are weekdays excluding Canadian federal statutory holidays.

Question 4

How will I get my refund?

Accepted Answer

IRCC issues refunds automatically by cheque when processing exceeds 30 business days. If you do not receive it, contact Service Canada with your application reference number.

Question 5

Is this tracker official?

Accepted Answer

No. This is an independent tool built by Expirify to help Canadians track their own refund clock. Always confirm refund eligibility directly with Service Canada or IRCC.