PR Card Renewal & PRTD
PR Card Renewal: Eligibility, Criteria, and Process
If you are a permanent resident (PR) of Canada, you are required to hold a valid PR card when traveling outside the country as proof of your permanent resident status. A PR card typically has a validity of 5 years (in some cases, 1 year). It must be renewed before it expires to ensure you can continue to travel freely in and out of Canada.
PR Card Renewal
Most PR cards are valid for five years, but some come with shorter dates. Renewing early helps you travel without stress and keeps your proof of status clear. The process looks easy, but IRCC checks every detail closely. They look at your time in Canada, your documents, and if you still meet the residency rules. Because of that, every paper you send must be right and complete.
It’s always better to apply before the last moment, especially if you plan to leave Canada soon. A small delay can change your whole travel plan.
Eligibility for PR Card Renewal
To renew your PR card, you must meet the following eligibility requirements:
- Permanent Resident Status
- You must still hold valid permanent resident status in Canada. If you have lost your status due to a violation of the residency obligation or for other reasons, you must resolve this before applying for a PR card renewal.
- Residency Obligation
You must meet Canada’s residency obligation, which requires that you have spent at least 730 days (2 years) in Canada within the last 5 years. These days do not have to be consecutive.
Exceptions are made for:
- Time spent abroad with a Canadian citizen spouse or parent.
- Employment abroad for a Canadian company or the government of Canada.
- Time spent with a permanent resident spouse who is employed abroad for a Canadian
- No Existing Removal Orders:
- You must not be under a removal order from Canada.
- Valid Personal Identification:
- You must provide valid identification and proof of your permanent resident status.
PR card renewal processing times vary. Typically, it takes around 90 days for the application to be processed. However, if your case is more complex, or there is a high volume of applications, processing times can be longer.
If your renewal application is approved, you will be notified, and your PR card will either be mailed to you or be available for pickup at a designated IRCC office.
Permanent Resident Travel Document (PRTD)
If you are a permanent resident who is outside Canada and does not have a valid PR card, you will need a Permanent Resident Travel Document (PRTD) to return to Canada. The PRTD allows you to board a flight or other commercial transport back to Canada, confirming your permanent resident status.
Eligibility for a PRTD:
- Are a permanent resident of Canada.
- Do not have a valid PR card.
- Meet the residency obligation of 730 days within the last 5 years.
- Once your application is processed, the visa office will make a decision. If approved, you will receive a single-use travel document allowing you to re-enter Canada.
- Upon arrival in Canada, you can apply for a new PR card. The PRTD is valid for one entry only, so once you are back in Canada, be sure to apply for your renewed PR card as soon as possible.
How We Can Help
At Immisa Immigration, we provide expert assistance with PR card renewals and PRTD applications to ensure a smooth and hassle-free process. If you are stuck outside Canada without a valid PR card, we will help you apply for a PRTD so you can return home.
We offer assistance for urgent applications, ensuring faster processing when needed. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and let us guide you through the PR card renewal or PRTD process with confidence.
