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PR Travel Document

Permanent Resident Travel Document (PRTD) or PR Travel Document

Your Gateway to Canada

In order to enter Canada, it is essential for individuals to possess a valid travel document. Canadian permanent residents have the privilege of using their Permanent Resident (PR) card as a means to enter the country. However, there may be circumstances where a permanent resident lacks a valid PR card but urgently needs to return to Canada. In such cases, they may be eligible to apply for a Permanent Resident Travel Document (PRTD) or PR Travel Document.

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What is a PRTD

The PRTD serves as an alternative travel document specifically designed for permanent residents who do not have a valid PR card but require entry into Canada. It allows them to return to their adopted home and resume their life as a permanent resident.

It is important to note that the PRTD is not a replacement for the PR card. It is intended as a temporary solution for individuals who find themselves in urgent situations where they need to travel to Canada but are unable to obtain or renew their PR card in a timely manner.

To apply for a PRTD, individuals must meet certain eligibility criteria and provide supporting documentation to demonstrate their status as permanent residents. The application process involves submitting an application form, paying the required fees, and providing evidence of your permanent resident status, travel plans, and reasons for needing the travel document.

It is crucial to plan ahead and apply for a PRTD well in advance of your intended travel dates, as processing times may vary. The Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website provides detailed information on the application process and current processing times.

Having a valid travel document such as a PR card or a PRTD ensures a smooth entry into Canada and reaffirms your status as a permanent resident. It is recommended to keep your travel documents up to date and carry them with you whenever you travel.

If you find yourself in a situation where you need to return to Canada but do not possess a valid PR card, exploring the option of applying for a Permanent Resident Travel Document may be the solution to ensure your safe and lawful entry into the country.

Who should not apply for a Permanent Resident Travel Document?

There are specific categories of individuals who are not eligible to apply for a Permanent Resident Travel Document. These include:

Canadian citizens do not need a Permanent Resident Travel Document as they already have Canadian citizenship, which allows them to travel freely with a Canadian passport.

Only individuals with Permanent Resident status in Canada are eligible to apply for a Permanent Resident Travel Document. If you do not hold this status, you should explore other appropriate travel documents based on your immigration status.

If you currently possess a valid Permanent Resident (PR) card, there is no need to apply for a Permanent Resident Travel Document. The PR card itself serves as a valid travel document for re-entry into Canada.

Individuals who wish to voluntarily give up or renounce their permanent residence status should not apply for a Permanent Resident Travel Document. Instead, they should follow the appropriate procedures for renouncing their PR status.

If you have lost your Permanent Resident (PR) status in the past, you are not eligible to apply for a Permanent Resident Travel Document. The document is intended for current PR cardholders who need to travel and return to Canada.

It is important to understand your specific immigration status and eligibility before applying for a Permanent Resident Travel Document. If you fall into any of the categories mentioned above, you should explore alternative options based on your circumstances.

Preparing your application package

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To apply for a Permanent Resident Travel Document (PRTD), it is crucial to gather all the necessary documents and complete the required forms accurately. Follow these steps to ensure a smooth application process:

Obtain the application package, which includes an instruction manual and all the forms you need. These forms may vary depending on your nation or territory of residence. It is important to use the correct forms applicable to your situation.

Read the instructions carefully and fill out the forms accurately. Provide all the requested information, ensuring that it is current and correct. Double-check for any errors or missing details before submitting your application.

Include all the supporting documents required for your application. These may include copies of your permanent resident card, proof of residency, travel itineraries, and any other documents specified in the instruction manual. Ensure that all documents are clear and legible.

Pay the necessary fees associated with your application. The fee amounts may vary depending on your circumstances and the number of family members requiring travel documents. Refer to the instruction manual for the specific fee structure and accepted payment methods.

Once you have completed the forms, gathered the supporting documents, and paid the fees, submit your application package according to the instructions provided. Carefully review the requirements for submission, such as mailing address or online submission portal, and follow the specified guidelines.

An immigration officer will review your application to ensure that it is complete and meets the criteria for maintaining permanent residency. It is crucial to demonstrate through your application that you continue to meet the requirements to be a permanent resident of Canada.

The immigration authorities will assess your application for completeness. If any information or required documents are missing or incomplete, your application may be returned to you for correction or completion. It is important to provide all the necessary information and documents to avoid delays in processing.

The processing of your PRTD application will be conducted outside of Canada. It is essential to note that you should not be physically present in Canada during this process.

By carefully preparing your application package and ensuring that all required forms, supporting documents, and fees are included, you can increase the likelihood of a successful PRTD application. If you have any specific questions or concerns regarding your application, refer to the instruction manual or seek guidance from the appropriate immigration authorities or a qualified immigration professional.

Submitting your application and Permanent Resident Card

When applying for a Permanent Resident Travel Document (PRTD), it is essential to follow the proper procedures to ensure a smooth process. Whether you choose to apply online or through a paper application, there are specific guidelines to keep in mind.

If you decide to apply online, you must submit all supporting identification documents through the designated permanent residence site. It is important to note that when applying online, you should provide copies of your permanent resident card and other relevant documents rather than the originals. This is to safeguard your original documents and ensure their security.

For those who opt for a paper application, it is crucial to familiarize yourself with the guidelines provided by your nation or territory regarding the format and submission location. Adhering to these guidelines will help prevent any delays or complications in the processing of your application.

Once you have submitted your application, an immigration officer will carefully review it to ensure its completeness and verify that you meet all the necessary requirements, including the residency obligation. The residency obligation refers to the requirement for permanent residents to accumulate a specified amount of time physically present in Canada.

If the officer determines that you meet the requirements, they will issue you a PRTD. It is important to understand that a PRTD is valid for a single entry into Canada. Its purpose is to allow you to return to Canada and apply for a Permanent Resident Card once you are physically present in the country.

Upon your return to Canada with a valid PRTD, you can proceed to apply for a Permanent Resident Card, which serves as an official proof of your permanent resident status. The Permanent Resident Card provides long-term residency and facilitates your ability to travel to and from Canada.

Remember to carefully follow the instructions provided by the immigration authorities and submit all the required documents accurately and on time. This will help ensure a smooth application process and increase your chances of obtaining the necessary travel document to return to Canada.

If you have any specific questions or concerns regarding the application process or the submission of your permanent resident card, it is advisable to seek guidance from the appropriate immigration authorities or consult with a qualified immigration professional for personalized assistance.

what happens next?

After You Have Submitted Your ApplicatioN

An immigration officer will review your application to determine your eligibility. Here’s what you can expect based on different outcomes:

If your application is deemed complete and you meet all the requirements, you will receive a PRTD counterfoil that will be placed in your passport. This counterfoil serves as your authorization for re-entry into Canada. It is important to keep your passport with the PRTD counterfoil in a safe place and present it to the immigration authorities upon your return to Canada.

If your application is missing information or required documents, it will be returned to you. In this case, you will need to review the reasons for the incompleteness, make the necessary corrections or additions, and resubmit your application.

In the event that your application for a PRTD is denied, you will receive a refusal letter outlining the reasons for the refusal and informing you of your appeal rights. If you wish to challenge the negative decision, carefully follow the instructions provided in the “Notice of Appeal” form and letter that are sent along with the refusal.

If you decide to withdraw your application for any reason, you will receive a letter explaining the reasons for the withdrawal. It is important to note that withdrawing your application means you will not proceed with the PRTD process, and you will not receive a PRTD.

It is important to understand that the decision-making process is conducted based on the information and documents you have provided in your application. Personal interviews are not typically conducted for PRTD applications. If you have any questions or concerns regarding the outcome of your application, it is recommended to seek guidance from the appropriate immigration authorities or consult with an immigration professional.

Residency obligation and supporting documents

In order to qualify for a PRTD, you must meet the residency obligation, which requires a specific amount of physical presence in Canada. The requirements differ based on the length of time you have been a permanent resident.

If you have been a permanent resident for five (5) years or more, you must have been physically present in Canada for at least 730 days within the five (5) years immediately before applying for a PRTD.

If you have been a permanent resident for less than five (5) years, you must demonstrate that you will be able to meet the minimum of 730 days of physical presence in Canada within five (5) years from the date you became a permanent resident.

To support your application and prove your residency obligation, you need to provide copies of two pieces of evidence that demonstrate your residency in Canada during the five (5) years leading up to your application. These can include employment records or pay stubs, bank statements, Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) Notice of Assessment for the relevant years, evidence of receiving benefits from Canadian government programs, rental agreements, club memberships, or any other documents that substantiate your fulfillment of the residency obligation.

Please note that you should not send original documents, as they will not be returned to you.

Take Control of Your PR Card Renewal

We Can Help You With Your Super Visa Application

When it comes to applying for a permanent resident travel document, seeking professional guidance can greatly increase your chances of success. The process of filling out forms and gathering the necessary documents can often be confusing and overwhelming. If you find yourself in need of expert assistance, look no further than Akrami & Associates.

At Akrami & Associates, we specialize in providing legal aid and support to individuals applying for a permanent resident travel document. Our team of experienced professionals is well-versed in the intricacies of the application process and can offer the guidance and expertise you need. We understand the complexities involved and can help simplify the process for you.

If you have any questions or concerns, we encourage you to reach out to us at our office number: (416) 447-2545. Our knowledgeable staff is ready to assist you and provide legal consultation with our immigration professionals. We are committed to helping you navigate through the application process with confidence and ensuring that you receive the best possible support. With Akrami & Associates by your side, you can rest assured that there is always a way forward. Let us help you with your permanent resident travel document application and provide you with the expert assistance you need to achieve your immigration goals. Contact us today and take the first step toward a successful application.

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