Apply for Permanent Resident Card Canada: A Comprehensive Guide

The Canadian Permanent Resident (PR) Card is a document that proves your status as a permanent resident in Canada. This card is a necessary document for traveling within and outside of Canada, and it also serves as proof of your identity and status in the country. In this article, we will guide you through the process of applying for a permanent resident card in Canada, including the requirements, processing time, renewal process, and more.

Applying for a Permanent Resident Card

If you are a permanent resident of Canada and you need to apply for a new PR card, you can do so by following these steps:

1. Gather your documents: Before applying for a PR card, make sure you have all the necessary documents, such as your passport, two recent passport-sized photographs, and proof of your current address in Canada.
2. Fill out the application form: Download the application form for the PR card from the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website. Fill out the form carefully and accurately, ensuring that all the information provided is correct.
3. Pay the application fee: The application fee for a PR card is CAD 50. You can pay this fee online using a credit card or through a bank draft, or a money order.
4. Submit your application: Once you have completed the application form and paid the application fee, submit your application to the IRCC. You can do this by mailing your application to the IRCC office or by submitting it online through the IRCC website.

Permanent Resident Card Canada Requirements

To be eligible for a Canadian Permanent Resident Card, you must meet the following requirements:

1. Be a permanent resident of Canada: You must have been granted permanent resident status by the Canadian government.
2. Be physically present in Canada: You must be physically present in Canada when you apply for a PR card.
3. Meet the residency obligation: To maintain your permanent resident status, you must be physically present in Canada for at least 730 days (two years) out of every five years.

Permanent Resident Card Canada Processing Time

The processing time for a PR card application can vary depending on the IRCC’s workload and the complexity of your application. Generally, it takes about 45-60 days to process a PR card application. However, this timeframe can be longer if your application is incomplete or requires additional documentation.

Permanent Resident Card Canada Renewal

Your PR card is valid for five years. If your PR card is expiring, you will need to apply for a renewal. The renewal process is similar to the initial application process, and you will need to provide the same documents and information.

Permanent Resident Card Canada Expiry Date

Your PR card will expire five years from the date it was issued. You can find the expiry date on the front of your card.

Permanent Resident Card Canada Number

The PR card number is a unique identification number assigned to your PR card. You can find this number on the back of your card, below the magnetic stripe.

Permanent Resident Card Canada Phone Number

If you have any questions or concerns about your PR card application or status, you can contact the IRCC by phone at 1-888-242-2100 (toll-free within Canada) or 613-952-1650 (outside Canada).

Permanent Resident Card Canada Sample

A sample of a Canadian Permanent Resident Card can be found on the IRCC website. This sample can help you understand the layout and information provided on the card.

Permanent Resident Card Canada Photo Requirements

When applying for a PR card, you will need to provide two recent passport-sized photographs. These photographs must meet the following requirements:

1. The photographs must be taken within the last six months.
2. The photographs must be in color.
3. The photographs must be 50 mm x 70 mm (2 inches by 2.75 inches) in size.
4. The photographs must show a full front view of your head and shoulders, with a neutral facial expression and both eyes open.

Permanent Resident Card Canada Expired

If your PR card has expired, you will need to apply for a renewal as soon as possible. You can continue to live in Canada with an expired PR card, but you will not be able to travel outside of Canada without a valid PR card or a permanent resident travel document.

Permanent Resident Card Canada Document Number

The document number for a Canadian Permanent Resident Card is a unique identification number assigned to your PR card. You can find this number on the back of your card, below the magnetic stripe.

Permanent Resident Card Canada Renewal Requirements

To renew your PR card, you will need to provide the same documents and information as you did for your initial application. Additionally, you will need to provide proof that you have met the residency obligation and that you are still a permanent resident of Canada.

FAQs

Q: How long does it take to process a PR card application?

A: The processing time for a PR card application can vary, but it generally takes about 45-60 days.

Q: Can I travel outside of Canada with an expired PR card?

A: No, you cannot travel outside of Canada with an expired PR card. You will need a valid PR card or a permanent resident travel document to travel.

Q: What is the residency obligation for maintaining permanent resident status in Canada?

A: To maintain your permanent resident status, you must be physically present in Canada for at least 730 days (two years) out of every five years.

Q: How can I contact the IRCC if I have questions about my PR card application?

A: You can contact the IRCC by phone at 1-888-242-2100 (toll-free within Canada) or 613-952-1650 (outside Canada).

Conclusion

Applying for a Canadian Permanent Resident Card is an important step in establishing your status as a permanent resident in Canada. By following the steps outlined in this article and ensuring that you meet the requirements, you can successfully apply for and maintain your PR card. If you have any questions or concerns, do not hesitate to contact the IRCC for assistance.