A Permanent Resident (PR) Card is a critical document for anyone living in Canada as a permanent resident. It is proof of your permanent residency status and is required to re-enter the country after international travel. Whether you’re applying for the first time, renewing, or replacing a lost card, it is essential to understand the full scope of costs involved in getting a PR card in Canada.
In this comprehensive guide, we provide detailed and updated costs, step-by-step insights, and frequently overlooked fees associated with the PR card application process.
As of 2025, the Government of Canada charges a flat fee of CAD 50 for all types of PR card applications:
New PR card (after landing)
PR card renewal
PR card replacement (lost, stolen, or damaged)
This is the mandatory application processing fee charged by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). It must be paid online, and proof of payment (receipt) must be included in your application package.
Though the CAD 50 government fee is fixed, there are several additional expenses that applicants should plan for. Below is a detailed breakdown of typical costs associated with the process of applying for or renewing a PR card.
You must include two recent photos that meet IRCC’s strict specifications. Most applicants get their photos done at a professional photo studio.
Estimated cost: CAD 15–$30
Ensure the photos meet the exact dimensions and background requirements
If any supporting documents are in a language other than English or French, they must be translated by a certified translator.
Cost per page: CAD 50–$150
Certification and affidavit fees may apply
In the case of a lost or stolen PR card, a statutory declaration or police report is required.
Estimated cost for notarization: CAD 30–$75
Applicants are required to mail their completed application package to the IRCC processing center. While regular mail is affordable, many prefer tracked or express shipping for security and speed.
Standard mail: CAD 5–$10
Courier or express service: CAD 25–$60
Hiring an immigration consultant or lawyer is not mandatory, but some applicants prefer expert help.
Consultation fees: CAD 200–$500
Full application preparation: CAD 500–$1,200
If your card is lost or stolen, you must apply for a replacement, using form IMM 5444. The cost structure is the same:
Government fee: CAD 50
Affidavit/police report: CAD 30–$100 (depending on region)
Photos and mailing: CAD 30–$90 (combined)
While there is no official expedited processing fee, urgent processing is available in certain cases (e.g., emergencies, work-related travel). Applicants must:
Clearly label the envelope “Urgent—PR Card.”
Provide proof of urgenc,y such as travel tickets, medical documents, or work letters
Although IRCC does not charge extra for urgency, preparing documentation quickly often incurs higher mailing, printing, and translation costs.
Most PR card applicants do not need to provide biometrics, as these are usually collected during earlier stages of permanent residency processing. However, in rare cases or overseas applications:
Individual biometrics fee: CAD 85
Family maximum: CAD 170
If you are outside Canada and your PR card has expired or is lost, you cannot return using commercial transport unless you hold a Permanent Resident Travel Document (PRTD).
Government application fee: CAD 50
Additional costs: biometric fee, photo, mailing, translations, courier
This document is valid for one entry only and should be used strictly when necessary.
| Expense Category | Cost (CAD) |
|---|---|
| IRCC Application Fee | $50 |
| Passport Photos | $15–$30 |
| Mailing / Courier Service | $10–$60 |
| Notarization / Affidavit | $30–$75 |
| Document Translation (if needed) | $50–$150 per page |
| Legal Help (Optional) | $200–$1,200 |
| Estimated Total (Typical) | $100–$300 |
| Estimated Total (With Consultant) | $400–$1,500 |
All payments must be made via the IRCC’s online payment portal:
Go to the official IRCC fee payment page
Select “Permanent Resident Card.”
Pay with a valid Visa, Mastercard, or American Express
Print and include the receipt with your application
Applications without proof of payment will be returned unprocessed. This will delay your ability to travel or prove status as a resident of Canada.
Always double-check that the fee has been paid correctly
Include the receipt on top of your documents
Use free settlement services if available in your city
Prepare all documents yourself using the IRCC guides
Avoid unnecessary consultants unless your case is complex
Only pay for document translation when required
Keep multiple copies of your PR card and documents to reduce the risk of loss
Applicants can access official IRCC help without cost:
IRCC Help Centre: Common questions answered
Toll-Free Support Line: For Canadian residents
Settlement Agencies: Available in most major cities for immigrants
The actual cost of a PR card in Canada is CAD 50, but most applicants will spend between CAD 100–$300 when accounting for photos, mailing, and optional services. Those choosing legal representation may pay more, but many applicants complete the process independently.
Always ensure your application is complete, accurate, and properly documented to avoid unnecessary delays and extra expenses. Understanding the full financial picture can help you better plan your permanent resident responsibilities in Canada.
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