Canada welcomed a record-breaking 431,645 Permanent Resident Card holders in 2022 alone.
Your PR status needs careful attention to renewal deadlines. A Permanent Resident Card stays valid for five years, and we recommend you begin the renewal process at least six months before it expires. You must prove your residency in Canada for at least 730 days in the last five years.
The renewal process takes between 90 to 120 days. Recent data shows processing times have improved to approximately 65 days as of February 2023. You’ll need specific documentation and a CAD 50 fee to complete your renewal, regardless of choosing online submission or mail-in application.
This detailed guide will walk you through everything you need to know about renewing your PR card. You’ll learn to avoid common pitfalls and ensure a smooth renewal process. Let’s get started!
You can start your PR card renewal process if your card expires within 9 months. The best time to submit your application is six months before the expiry date. This ensures you maintain continuous coverage.
The timing is a vital part of a smooth renewal process. Right now, more than 70,000 new Canadian PRs are waiting to receive their first PR card. Starting early helps you avoid travel restrictions and complications with your permanent resident status.
The current processing timelines in early 2024 show:
Now, before you start counting down the days, keep in mind that several factors can throw these timelines off. Here’s what might cause delays:
Here’s the good news: at Akrami & Associates, we know exactly how to streamline the process for you. From ensuring your application is error-free to quickly addressing any requests for additional information, we’ve got your back. With our help, you’ll save time, avoid unnecessary stress, and stay one step ahead in the game. Let us handle the nitty-gritty so you can focus on what’s next—living your best life in Canada!
We can help speed up your PR card processing in specific situations. You qualify for urgent processing if you need to travel within three months due to:
Your urgent processing request needs:
You should apply for a Permanent Resident Travel Document (PRTD) if you’re outside Canada or your card expires during travel. This document lets you enter Canada once. Note that an expired PR card doesn’t affect your permanent resident status. However, you need valid documentation to return to Canada by commercial transport.
The urgent processing option exists, but IRCC cannot guarantee processing in less than three weeks. A valid PR card remains essential for any unexpected travel needs
Here are the requirements you need to know for your Permanent Resident Card renewal. Meeting these requirements is significant to get your application approved.
Residency Obligations Check
Meeting residency obligations forms the foundation of your application. You must have physically lived in Canada for at least 730 days in the last 5 years. There are exceptions to this rule if you’ve been:
Document Checklist
Your complete application package needs these documents:
| Essential Documents | Additional Requirements |
| Completed IMM 5444 Form | Must be signed and dated |
| Current PR Card copy | Clear and legible |
| Government ID | Valid and current |
| Proof of Residency | For the past 5 years |
| Payment Receipt | CAD 69.67 fee |
Photo Specifications
The photo requirements need specific attention. Your photos should meet these criteria:
Recent updates require digital photos to be:
Write your name, date of birth, and the photography studio’s details on the back of one photo. Online applications can include this information in a separate document with the studio’s confirmation.
These requirements might seem like a lot, but following them helps your application process move quickly. Applications with proper documentation and correct photo specifications usually avoid delays.
Step-by-Step Online Renewal Process
More permanent residents now choose to renew their PR cards online through the IRCC portal. Here’s a simplified way to renew your PR card.
Creating IRCC Account
You can set up your IRCC secure account with these steps:
Completing the IMM 5444 Form
The digital IMM 5444 form needs to be filled out in the portal. These sections need your attention:
Uploading Supporting Documents
Your supporting documentation comes next. The system accepts these formats:
| Document Type | Specifications |
| Digital Photos | JPEG/PNG format, 4MB max |
| Identity Documents | Clear, legible scans |
| Supporting Evidence | PDF format preferred |
The system will ask you to pay the processing fee of CAD 69.67. You’ll get a chance to review everything before final submission.
These technical points matter:
Your application status becomes visible in your IRCC account once submitted. It usually takes up to 5 days for your application to appear in the account.
You can upload any additional documents we might need later through your IRCC portal account. Check your account often to see updates or requests from our processing team.
Mail-in Application Guidelines
You can renew your PR card through our detailed mail-in application process if you prefer traditional methods. Let’s go through the steps you need to submit your application by mail.
Preparing Physical Documents
Your documents should be organized this way:
| Required Items | Special Notes |
| Document Checklist (IMM 5644) | Must be on top |
| Completed IMM 5444 Form | Original signature required |
| Payment Receipt | CAD 69.67 fee confirmation |
| Supporting Documents | Clear photocopies only |
| Photos | In separate envelope |
Payment Methods
You must complete your payment online before mailing your application. Here’s what you should know:
Mailing Instructions
You can pick between two mailing options once your package is ready:
Regular Mail Address: Case Processing Center – PR Card P.O. Box 10020 Sydney, NS B1P 7C1 Canada
Courier Service Address: Case Processing Center – PR Card 49 Dorchester Street Sydney, NS B1P 5Z2 Canada
We recommend using a postal or courier service with tracking capabilities. Tracking services give you:
Make copies of all documents before you submit them. Keep your tracking number and copies in a safe place after mailing. Your application processing starts when we receive your complete package.
Important Considerations:
Let us know if you change your address after submission. This will help your new PR card reach you quickly.
Your Content Goes Here
When it comes to renewing your PR Card, it is important to gather the necessary documents to support your application. While some individuals may be eligible for Canadian citizenship and not require PR Card renewal, for those who need to renew, the following documents are typically required:
Include a copy of your current PR Card to demonstrate your existing status.
Provide official identity documents for identification purposes. This can include a copy of a valid driving license or other government-issued identification.
If you have obtained travel documents to re-enter Canada when your PR Card expires, be sure to include a copy of these documents as well.
If you do not possess a passport, submit a copy of any foreign passport or travel document you may have.
Include two recent photographs that meet the specified PR Card application requirements (e.g., 50mm x 70mm). Place the pictures in an envelope, avoiding stapling or using paper clips.
Provide evidence that you meet the residency requirements for maintaining PR status, which typically involves demonstrating at least two years of residence in Canada within the last five years.
If you were outside of Canada accompanying a Canadian citizen spouse/common-law partner during your absence, submit proof of your partner’s Canadian citizenship (e.g., citizenship papers) and evidence of your relationship (e.g., marriage certificate or proof of common-law relationship). Show that your Canadian citizen spouse or partner was with you throughout your time away from Canada.
If you or your permanent resident spouse/common-law partner worked full-time for a Canadian company or business while abroad, provide documents demonstrating this employment. This can include proof that the company has a head office in Canada and primarily operates and manages its activities from within the country. Similarly, if your spouse or partner is the one working for the Canadian company, provide proof of your relationship (e.g., marriage certificate or proof of common-law relationship) and evidence of their presence with you during your absence.
If you lack proof of accompanying a Canadian citizen abroad or employment with a Canadian business while abroad, you may still be eligible to renew your PR Card on H&C grounds. This requires providing a compelling case based on humanitarian and compassionate considerations.
Note: Documents not in English or French must be accompanied by certified translations.
Our office provides several ways to track your Permanent Resident Card application status. You can stay informed about your application’s progress through our tracking systems.
Using Online Status Checker
Two main methods are available to check your application status:
Understanding Processing Updates
Different status messages might need clarification. Here’s what each application status means:
| Status | Meaning |
| Received | Application undergoing completeness check |
| In Progress | Currently under review |
| Documentation Verified | Checking for missing documents |
| Interview May be Required | Assessment for interview necessity |
| Decision Made | Application approved or rejected |
| Complete | Status of your application |
Processing times show:
Communication with IRCC
We have established multiple channels to keep you updated:
Status Update Timing:
Important Communication Guidelines:
You’ll receive an acknowledgment of receipt (AOR) letter or email with your application number after submitting your application. Status updates appear only after you get your AOR.
Processing Considerations:
Send your documents through a postal or courier service that offers tracking. This gives you proof of delivery and helps your Permanent Resident Card application move faster through our system.
PR card renewal process comes with its share of challenges. Let’s look at these common problems and their solutions to help you avoid any setbacks.
Missing Documentation Issues
Incomplete applications cause most processing delays. Our data shows we return applications that don’t have all the needed documents. Here’s what you need to check:
Incomplete applications will be send back with a detailed checklist that explains what’s missing. We can ensure this doesnt happen to you!
Residency Calculation Problems
Meeting the residency requirement of 730 days within five years is tough for many permanent residents. Here are the calculation problems we see most often:
| Issue | Solution |
| Travel Day Confusion | Same-day returns don’t count as absences |
| Incorrect Time Period | Focus on 5 years before application |
| Exception Misunderstandings | Check if you qualify for time abroad |
You might qualify for PR Card Renewal with humanitarian and compassionate (H&C) Arguments if you’ve spent nowhere near 730 days in Canada. This needs:
Residency Calculation Problems
Meeting the residency requirement of 730 days within five years is no walk in the park. Honestly, it’s one of the trickiest parts of renewing a PR card for many people, and that’s where we see a lot of folks get stuck. Let me break it down for you and offer some solutions:
If you are a new permanent resident in Canada, you do not need to apply for a PR card. However, to be eligible for a PR card, you must be a permanent resident and submit your application within Canada. It is important to apply for a PR card under the following circumstances:
If your PR card has expired or will expire within the next nine months, it is essential to apply for a renewal.
If your PR card is lost, stolen, or destroyed, you should promptly apply for a replacement.
If you have not received your PR card within 180 days of immigrating to Canada, you must submit an application to obtain your card.
You may need to update your PR card in specific situations, such as legally changing your name, changing your citizenship, changing your gender designation, or correcting your date of birth.
To ensure a smooth return to Canada via plane, train, bus, or boat, it is crucial to possess a valid permanent resident (PR) card. If you anticipate that your card will expire while you are travelling, it is advisable to renew it before your departure. PR card renewals can only be done within Canada, as the government does not mail PR cards to non-Canadian addresses, and third parties cannot obtain them on your behalf.
If you find yourself outside Canada with an expired PR card, you will require a permanent resident travel document (PRTD) to return. PRTD applications must be made from outside Canada, and attempting to re-enter Canada without a valid PR card or PRTD may lead to difficulties boarding your flight, train, bus, or boat.
While your PR card may expire while you are outside Canada, your permanent resident (PR) status remains intact. However, maintaining your PR status requires spending a certain amount of time in Canada.
The appropriate course of action when your PR card expires while outside Canada depends on your intended method of returning:
If you plan to return to Canada by a private vehicle, there are alternative documents you can use for re-entry. Once you are back in Canada, it is recommended to apply for a new PR card if you have future travel plans outside the country. Examples of private vehicles include privately owned or rented cars, trucks, motorcycles, or recreational vehicles not available for public use.
Airplane, bus, train, or boat: If your return to Canada involves a commercial vehicle, such as an airplane, bus, train, or boat, you must apply for a permanent resident travel document (PRTD) in advance to ensure a smooth re-entry. Failure to obtain a PRTD may result in travel restrictions to Canada.
You have the option to apply for a PR card replacement either upon your return to Canada or before your departure. Urgent processing may be available in certain cases.
PR cards typically have a validity of five years, although some are valid for only one year. The expiration date is printed on the card. Once your PR card has expired, it cannot be used as a travel document. If your PR card expires within six months, applying for renewal while in Canada is advisable. In cases where you are returning to Canada by a commercial vehicle and possess an expired PR card, obtaining a PRTD is necessary for re-entry.
For information on processing times and to determine the duration of the wait for your new PR card, please refer to the official processing time guidelines.
If you are a permanent resident currently residing in Canada, your new PR card will be delivered to you through the mail. However, in certain situations, you may be required to collect it from your local IRCC (Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada) office. It is crucial to notify IRCC promptly if there is a change in your mailing address to ensure successful delivery. Keep in mind that if you fail to collect your PR card within 180 days, it will be destroyed.
The PR card will not be sent via mail to permanent residents outside of Canada. Instead, you will need to collect it once you return to Canada.
However, if your PR card has expired prior to your return, you will be required to apply for a Permanent Resident Travel Document (PRTD). This document allows for a one-time re-entry to Canada solely for the purpose of renewing your PR card.
A lot of people think that short trips, like same-day returns, count as absences—but guess what? They don’t. Same-day returns or even quick cross-border shopping trips don’t affect your residency count. We’ll help you clarify what actually counts as an absence so you don’t shortchange yourself.
It’s easy to get confused about which five-year period you should be looking at. The trick? Focus on the five years right before your PR card renewal application date, not just any five years. We’ll make sure you calculate this correctly to avoid unnecessary issues.
Did you know time spent abroad might still count toward your residency requirement in certain cases? If you’ve been accompanying a Canadian citizen spouse or working for a Canadian business abroad, you could qualify for these exceptions. We’ll help you determine if any of these apply to your case.
Now, if you’ve spent far less than 730 days in Canada, don’t panic. You might still qualify for PR card renewal under Humanitarian and Compassionate (H&C) arguments. Here’s what you’ll need to make your case:
Here’s how we approach PR Card Renewal with Humanitarian & Compassionate (H&C) applications:
We’ll walk you through every step, making sure your application is rock solid.
Let’s be real—an expired PR card doesn’t mean you lose your permanent resident status, but it can complicate things, especially if you need to travel. Here’s what I recommend to stay on track:
At Akrami & Associates, we take the stress out of PR card renewals. Whether it’s sorting out your residency days or building a strong H&C case, we’re here to make sure your application has the best chance of approval without unnecessary delays. Let us handle the complexities so you can focus on your life in Canada!
Loss of permanent residence status is not automatic. It requires a determination by an officer. If no officer makes a decision that PR status is lost, then the person is still a permanent resident. This is very important for those persons who have an expired PR card and still wish to enter Canada.
Now, those who remain outside of Canada for too long risk being exposed to uncomfortable questioning and losing their status as a result.
Making a proper presentation at the border is crucial. If this is not done, then you can risk losing your PR status!
At Akrami & Associates, we prepare you for the border crossing. We prepare you for the interview questioning and how to answer these questions properly. We also prepare an Entry Package for you to carry with you so that the officer is clear as to why you left, why you are seeking entry again and what your legal rights are.
Many of our clients have successfully entered Canada on an expired PR card with our Entry Package.
In essence, it does happen that people who were not able to meet the 730-day rule were still able to enter Canada. Thankfully the 730-day rule is not completely inflexible. The officer reviewing the case is allowed to consider humanitarian and compassionate factors. But humanitarian and compassionate factors are not clearly defined, so no one should simply assume that they will qualify for this kind of flexibility.
If you have not received your Permanent Resident card, it is important to follow these steps:
Typically, it takes about six weeks for your PR card to be mailed to you. During this time, the card is processed and sent to the address you provided. It is important to note that this time frame applies to applications where the applicant meets the residency obligation of PR.
If six weeks have passed and you have not received your PR card despite it being mailed to you, you should contact Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) to inquire about the status of your PR card renewal application. They will be able to provide you with information and guidance regarding your specific case.
It is important to understand that the processing time may vary depending on the complexity of the application, especially if the applicant is not meeting the residency obligation of PR. In such cases, additional documentation or review may be required, leading to a longer processing time. Therefore, it is advisable to keep track of the timeline and contact IRCC if there are any delays or concerns regarding your PR card.
To ensure a smooth renewal process for your Permanent Resident (PR) card, it is recommended to submit an application if your card is set to expire within 6 months. This timeframe allows sufficient processing time to receive your renewed card before its expiration.
If you have plans to travel abroad and your PR card is due to expire while you are outside of Canada, it is important to renew it before your departure. This is especially crucial if you intend to re-enter the country using a commercial vehicle such as an airplane, boat, train, or bus. Without a valid PR card, you may face difficulties during the re-entry process.
In certain circumstances where time is of the essence, you have the option to apply for urgent processing. This can be particularly helpful if you are planning a trip outside of Canada and aim to renew your PR card before your departure. Urgent processing may expedite the renewal process, ensuring that you have a valid PR card in hand when you need it.
At Akrami & Associates, we understand the complexities and concerns surrounding the maintenance of PR status. Our team of immigration experts can provide guidance and support throughout the process of renewing your PR card, ensuring a smooth transition and continued validity of your permanent residence. Contact us today to discuss your specific situation and receive personalized advice tailored to your needs.
At Akrami & Associates, we understand the importance of timely receipt and renewal of your PR card. Our team can provide guidance and support throughout the process, ensuring you clearly understand the requirements and necessary steps. Whether you need assistance with address updates, PR card collection, or applying for a PRTD, we are here to help. Contact us today to discuss your specific circumstances and receive expert immigration advice.
PR card renewal is a vital process that demands close attention to timing, documentation, and residency requirements. This piece guides you through everything in PR card renewal, including application methods and tracking systems.
Your success depends on starting the renewal process early – about six months before your card expires. This gives you enough time to handle unexpected issues while knowing how to travel internationally. Note that your PR status remains valid even with an expired card, but you need valid documentation to cross borders smoothly.
Residency calculations, documentation requirements, and submission problems are systemic. These complexities make it worth booking a consultation with Akrami & Associates. Their customized guidance ensures your renewal application meets all requirements and helps you avoid delays or rejections that can get pricey.
Requirements and processing times change throughout the year in the renewal process. You should track current timelines, keep document copies, and update your contact details regularly. Your permanent resident status in Canada stays secure when you follow these steps and our detailed instructions for online and mail-in applications.
It’s recommended to begin the renewal process at least six months before your current PR card expires. This allows ample time to gather necessary documents and address any potential issues that may arise during the application process.
As of early 2024, the average processing time for PR card renewals is approximately 63 days. However, processing times can vary based on factors such as application completeness and current application volumes.
Essential documents include a completed IMM 5444 form, a copy of your current PR card, valid government ID, proof of residency for the past 5 years, and a payment receipt for the renewal fee. Additionally, you’ll need to provide photos meeting specific requirements.
If you haven’t been physically present in Canada for at least 730 days within the past 5 years, you may still be eligible for renewal under certain exceptions or by applying on humanitarian and compassionate grounds. However, you’ll need to provide strong justification and supporting documentation
If your PR card expires while you’re abroad, you should apply for a Permanent Resident Travel Document (PRTD). This document allows for a single entry back to Canada. It’s important to note that an expired PR card doesn’t mean you’ve lost your permanent resident status, but you’ll need valid documentation to return to Canada by commercial transport.
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| Canadian Immigration, Expired PR Card, H&C Requirements, How to Renew my PR Card outside of Canada, How to renew my PR Card?, PR Card Renewal, PR Card Renewal 2015, PR Card Renewal with H and C |
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One of our Representatives will
assist you with your matter. Book Now!
Book a Consultation
Call us for
more Information
+1-416-477-2545
Toll Free: 1-877-820-7121
Call us today
Complete our form and one of our
Representatives will contact you.
Immigration inquiries
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