Permanent Resident (PR) Card Renewal

The Permanent Resident (PR) Card is an official document that proves an individual’s status as a permanent resident of Canada. It is important for PR cardholders to renew their card before it expires to ensure they can continue to prove their status and access various benefits in Canada. This page provides a comprehensive guide to the PR card renewal process in Canada.

What is a PR Card?

The PR Card is a government-issued identification card that confirms a person is a permanent resident of Canada. Permanent residents are individuals who have been granted the right to live and work in Canada indefinitely, but they are not Canadian citizens. The PR card is an essential document for re-entering Canada after traveling abroad and serves as proof of your status in Canada.

Eligibility for PR Card Renewal

To be eligible for PR card renewal, you must meet the following criteria:

• Permanent Resident Status: You must still hold permanent resident status in Canada. If you have lost your status, you may not be eligible to renew your PR card.
• Residency Requirements: You must have been physically present in Canada for at least 730 days (2 years) during the 5-year period immediately preceding your PR card application. If you have not met this requirement, you may not be eligible to renew your PR card.
• Not Under a Removal Order: If you are under a removal order or have been asked to leave Canada, you are not eligible to renew your PR card.

When to Apply for PR Card Renewal

You should apply to renew your PR card before it expires. It is recommended to apply for the renewal at least six months before your card expires. If you wait too long and your PR card expires, you may face delays in receiving your new card, especially if there are issues with your application.

How to Apply for PR Card Renewal

Follow these steps to apply for a PR card renewal:

Step 1: Verify Your Eligibility

Before you apply, ensure you meet the residency requirements (i.e., at least 730 days of physical presence in Canada within the last 5 years) and are not under a removal order. If you do not meet the residency requirement, you may need to provide additional information explaining your situation.

Step 2: Complete the Application Form

Complete the PR Card Renewal application form (IMM 5444). The form requires you to provide information about your current and past addresses, travel history, and other personal details. Make sure to fill out the form accurately and completely.

Step 3: Gather the Required Documents

You will need to submit the following documents with your application:

• Your current PR card (if applicable),
• Proof of identity (e.g., passport, national ID card),
• Photographs that meet the specific PR card photo requirements (2 recent photos, taken according to Canadian guidelines),
• Residency evidence such as travel records, tax returns, or employment records to show that you have been in Canada for at least 730 days in the last 5 years,
• Payment receipt for the PR card renewal fee (currently CAD 50).

Step 4: Submit Your Application

Once the application form is complete and you have all your supporting documents, mail your application package to the appropriate address provided by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). You should use a reliable mail service to ensure your documents arrive safely and are tracked.

Step 5: Wait for Processing

After you submit your application, IRCC will process your renewal request. Processing times may vary depending on your specific situation and the volume of applications. Typically, processing can take several weeks or even months. You can check the status of your application online using the IRCC website.

Step 6: Receive Your New PR Card

If your application is approved, you will receive your new PR card by mail. The new PR card will have a new expiry date, and you must continue to meet the residency requirements to be eligible for future renewals.

PR Card Renewal Processing Time

The processing time for PR card renewal applications can vary. Generally, it takes approximately 2-3 months to process a PR card renewal application, but this can vary depending on factors such as application volume and whether additional information is required from the applicant. It is important to apply well before your PR card expires to avoid any issues with re-entering Canada.

Important Notes

• Lost or Stolen PR Cards: If your PR card is lost, stolen, or destroyed, you must report it to IRCC and apply for a replacement card. You can also apply for a replacement if your name or other personal information has changed.
• PR Card Expiry: If your PR card has expired, you can still apply for a new one, but you may face challenges if you do not meet the residency requirement. In such cases, you may need to explain your situation in the application.
• Travel Outside Canada: If you need to travel outside Canada and your PR card has expired or is expiring soon, you may have trouble re-entering Canada. It is advisable to renew your PR card before traveling. In cases of emergency, you may apply for a Permanent Resident Travel Document (PRTD) to return to Canada.

Fees for PR Card Renewal

The fee for renewing your PR card is currently CAD 50. Make sure to check the most current fees on the official IRCC website, as fees may be subject to change.

Conclusion

Renewing your PR card is an important step in maintaining your permanent resident status in Canada. Make sure to meet the residency requirements, complete the application accurately, and submit all necessary documents. If your PR card expires, it may affect your ability to travel to and from Canada, so it’s crucial to renew it on time. For more information on the PR card renewal process, you can visit the official IRCC website.