A permanent resident is someone who has been given permanent resident status by immigrating to Canada, but is not a Canadian citizen. Permanent residents are citizens of other countries.
When you are travelling, you need a permanent resident (PR) card to prove you’re a PR when you return to Canada.
Apply for a PR card or travel document, get urgent processing or check the status of your application.
If your PR card expires, you can renew your card. You still have your PR status even if your PR card expired. Your PR Card application (IMM 5444E) shall be done at the Port of Entry itself. It is part of the PR package and the photos & details will be the same as you supplied for the PR.
If you are a new immigrant to Canada, you do not need to apply for a permanent resident (PR) card. Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) will mail your card to you when you get to Canada.
You should apply for a PR card if:
Consult the processing times to see how long it will take to get a PR card.
After you submit your application, you can expect to hear from IRCC:
You must bring your old card and the original documents of the photocopies you included with your application.
In Canada, you may Contact Us or go online to see the current status of your application:
If you are outside Canada, you may Contact the Canadian embassy, high commission or consulateresponsible for your region.
Your PR Card comes back to you via regular post mail, in 3-6 weeks, average 4 weeks maximum.
It is suggested to stay in Canada for at least 45days, collect your PR Card and then travel if you must. If you’re unavailable to receive the PRC and leave the country before it arrives, you need to make arrangements accordingly for its collection & forward delivery to you,overseas, through a friend/relative. (However, this action is not recommended as there is a danger of losing it in transit and if that happens, you’ll have a tedious process to get new ones made.)
The PR Card is probably the most important document after you are through with the PR application. It is valid for 5 years. You don’t lose your permanent resident status when your PR card expires. You can only lose your status if you go through an official process.
You can lose your permanent resident status if:
Even if you don't meet the residency obligation, you are still a PR until an official decision is made on your status.