A Permanent Resident (PR) Card is an official document issued by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) that serves as proof that the holder is a permanent resident of Canada. It is the most important document for a permanent resident of Canada, as it is required for re-entry into Canada after travelling abroad.
Validity and Renewal of PR Card
The PR Card is valid for five years and must be renewed before it expires. To be eligible for a PR Card, you must be a permanent resident of Canada and meet certain residency requirements. You must also have a valid passport or travel document.
The application process for a PR Card is relatively straightforward. You must first complete an application form and submit it to IRCC. You must also provide supporting documents such as proof of identity, proof of residence, and proof of your permanent resident status.
Once your application is approved, you will receive your PR Card in the mail. You must carry your PR Card with you at all times when travelling outside of Canada.
The PR Card identifies a person who has permanent resident status in Canada. With permanent resident status, a person is guaranteed entry into Canada, as he/she can enter Canada by right. You may still be subject to inspection by a Canadian border services officer for customs related matters. The officer may ask you questions about your travel plans and may ask to see your passport or other travel documents.
Beware When Renewing Your PR Card
If you are a permanent resident of Canada, the first PR card is usually mailed to you to your Canadian address given during landing. Subsequent renewals of the card must be done in Canada, and at the time of the renewal application, you need to make sure that you have satisfied the residency obligation on the date that you’ve submitted your application.
- If you are in Canada, PR card is expired or about to expire, but you did not satisfy your residency obligation:
- Do NOT attempt to renew your card
- Do NOT exit Canada
- Wait until you have accumulated your 730 day requirement before renewing your card
- If you are outside of Canada but your PR card is still valid:
- Come back to Canada, as soon as you can
- You may still be examined and challenged at the border, but the chance is relatively low
- Once you are back into Canada, wait until you have accumulated your 730 day requirement before renewing your card
- If you are outside of Canada and your PR card is expired:
- If you have met your residency obligation – apply for a Permanent Resident Travel Document (PRTD)
- If you have NOT met your residency obligation – depending on your situation, there might be ways that can save your PR status.
- Do not attempt to renew your PR card.
- Do not attempt to apply for a PRTD.
- This is a time sensitive matter. Talk to us. We can help!
The content above is not intended to provide legal advice or opinions of any kind and may not be used for professional or commercial purposes. E&OE.
