PR Card Renewal

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:

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:

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.

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.