Will Tackle Passport Offices and Application Processing
Travel has become increasingly frustrating for Canadians due to delays with passport processing. To tackle this issue, the federal government has created a special task force to expedite passport and immigration applications, reports Global News.
When announcing the new task force, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said the federal government knows the delays are unacceptable and is committed to improving the delivery of services in a timely and efficient manner.
He also noted that the government aims to continue providing high-quality services to Canadians while meeting their changing needs.
Ten cabinet members will lead the new committee, which will review the delivery of services and identify areas for improvement. The committee is expected to outline short- and longer-term solutions that would reduce wait times, clear backlogs, and improve overall service quality.
The task force will also monitor external issues, such as labour shortages around the world, which contribute to delays at home and abroad.
So, What’s Happening Exactly?
The demand for Canadian passports has been so high, that it has led to delays in processing times. While many Canadians are anxious to travel, some passport seekers have even been forced to camp outside service centres or reschedule their trips because of the bureaucratic lull.
Between April 1, 2020, and March 31, 2021, 363,000 passports were issued. From April 1st, 2021 and March 31, 2022, 1,273,000 passports were issued. The numbers showcase how many Canadians are yearning to leave the country.
The high demand for passports directly correlates to massive lines at the airports.
New Passport Renewal Process For Applicants
The sudden influx of passengers has prompted Service Canada to hire and train more employees. Their spokesperson said that around 600 new people have been employed in the last year, and around 600 people have been reassigned to passport service delivery.
Service Canada has also created a new process for applicants.
You can now renew your expired passport (if it was issued in the last 15 years) without providing your original documents, like proof of citizenship. You now need two photos, two references, the completed form and the applicable fees.
