PR Renewal and Residency
Renew your Permanent Resident card and maintain your valid documentation for travel and identification in Canada
Purpose
To renew the PR card, a travel document for Canadian permanent residents that facilitates re-entry into Canada.
Eligibility Criteria
Residency Obligation
Must have been physically present in Canada for at least 730 days (2 years) within the last 5 years.
Status
You must retain your permanent residency status and not be under a removal order.
Application Process
Complete the Application Package
Obtain the PR Card renewal package from the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website, including the application form and document checklist.
Prepare Required Documents
Include current PR card, two photos as per specifications, proof of residence in Canada, and any other supporting documents that might be pertinent (e.g., travel history).
Pay the Fees
Submit the processing fee through the online payment system.
Submit Application
Send the completed application package and payment receipt to the processing center as instructed in the guide.
Processing
Renewals generally take a few weeks to several months. Current processing times can be checked on the IRCC website.
Residency Requirements
Physical Presence
Meet the minimum number of days required in Canada to fulfill the residency obligation.
Exceptions
Time spent abroad accompanying a Canadian citizen spouse, or working for a Canadian business can count towards residency days.
Important Considerations
Monitor Expiry Dates
Apply for renewal well before the current PR card expires, ideally six months prior.
Traveling Without PR Card
If your PR card expires and you need to travel, you may apply for a Permanent Resident Travel Document (PRTD) to return to Canada.
Permanent Resident Status
PR cards are not the status itself; even if the card expires, you retain PR status unless officially revoked.
Benefits
The PR card serves as valid documentation proving permanent residency status in Canada and is required for re-entry by commercial carriers (like airlines).
Restrictions
- Cannot use the expired PR card for travel back into Canada.
- Does not apply to Canadian citizens, as they do not need a PR card.
Actions if Your PR Card is Lost or Stolen
1Report Immediately
Notify IRCC to prevent misuse.
2Reapply for Card
Submit an application for a replacement PR card as soon as possible.
We recommend applying about six months before your current card expires to avoid any gap in valid travel documentation, especially if you plan to travel outside Canada.
No, the PR card is just a travel document, not your status. Your permanent residency itself remains valid unless it's officially revoked, but you'll need a valid card or a PR Travel Document to re-enter Canada by commercial carrier.
You must have been physically present in Canada for at least 730 days (2 years) within the most recent 5-year period, though certain exceptions apply, such as time spent abroad with a Canadian citizen spouse or working for a Canadian business.
Report it to IRCC immediately to prevent misuse, then apply for a replacement card as soon as possible. We help you prepare the replacement application accurately to avoid delays.