PR Card Renewal

A Permanent Resident (PR) Card is proof of your status as a Permanent Resident of Canada and is required for re-entry when traveling internationally. If you are outside Canada and your PR card expires, you will need a valid PR card to return via commercial transport such as a plane, bus, train, or boat. However, you may be allowed entry at a land border if returning from the U.S. in a private vehicle. Since CBSA officers use discretion in such cases, immediately schedule an appointment with us before traveling.

If you do not meet the 730-day residency obligation in the past five years and apply for renewal, IRCC may initiate the process to revoke your PR status. Contact us immediately if you are in this situation to discuss your options.

Key Information

Validity: PR cards are typically valid for five years (some issued for one year).
Travel Requirement: A valid PR card is required to re-enter Canada using public transport.
Residency Obligation: You must be in Canada for at least 730 days in the last five years to maintain PR status.

Eligibility Criteria

You can apply for PR card renewal if:

You are a Permanent Resident of Canada.
Your PR card is expired or expiring within six months.
You have met the residency requirement (730 days in Canada in the last five years).
You are not under a removal order.

Application Process

1. Gather Required Documents

Valid Passport or Travel Document (copy of ID pages).
Expired or Expiring PR Card (copy of front and back).
Proof of Residency in Canada.
Recent Photos (as per IRCC specifications).

2. Complete the Application Forms

IMM 5444 – Application for PR Card Renewal.
IMM 5476 – Use of Representative (if applicable).

3. Pay the Processing Fee

PR card renewal fee: $50 CAD (subject to updates).
Payment must be made online via the IRCC portal and receipt attached with the application.

4. Submit Your Application

PR Renewal applications can be submitted Online or via mail to IRCC (Paper Application).

Important Considerations

Expired PR Cards & Travel

You cannot return to Canada via public transportation with an expired PR card. Apply for a Permanent Resident Travel Document (PRTD) if outside Canada.

PR Status & Residency Obligation

Your PR status does not expire with your PR card, but if IRCC finds you don’t meet residency requirements, they may start the process to revoke it.

Lost or Stolen PR Card?

Report it immediately and apply for a replacement.

Urgent Processing for PR Card Renewal

Can be requested if you have immediate travel plans.

PR Card Renewal FAQs

When should I renew my PR card?

Apply six months before expiry to avoid delays.

What happens if my PR card expires while I am outside Canada?

You will need a Permanent Residence Travel Document (PRTD) to return via commercial transport. However, if you are driving back from the U.S. in a private vehicle, CBSA officers may use discretion to allow entry.

Can I renew my PR card if I have not met the residency obligation?

If you apply without meeting the 730-day residency rule, IRCC may initiate PR revocation. Consult us before applying.

Can I enter Canada without a PR card?

If entering via a commercial carrier (plane, bus, boat, train), a valid PR card is required. If entering from the U.S. by private vehicle, CBSA officers may allow entry at their discretion.

How long does it take to renew a PR card?

Processing varies but can take several weeks to months.

Can I work or access benefits with an expired PR card?

Yes, as your PR status does not expire, but you must renew your PR card for travel and official proof of status.

What if I lost my PR card?

Report it to IRCC and apply for a replacement.

Need Help with Your PR Card Renewal?

Avoid complications with PR renewal! If you are unsure about residency requirements or renewal eligibility, book a consultation.

Book your appointment

Visa Immigration Agent

Dikshit Soni

Founder and Principal Consultant

Megha Khatri

Administrative Manager