The Permanent Resident (PR) Card is an essential document that allows permanent residents of Canada to prove their legal status and re-enter Canada after international travel. Whether you’re applying for a new card, renewing an expired one, or replacing a lost PR card, it’s important to understand all associated fees, hidden charges, and optional service costs.
The standard fee to apply for, renew, or replace a Canadian PR card is:
CAD 50 (per application)
This non-refundable fee applies to all categories of PR card applications, including:
Initial PR card after landing
Renewal of expired PR cards
Replacement of lost, stolen, or damaged PR cards
Applicants must pay this fee online using the IRCC secure payment system. A printed copy of the payment receipt must be submitted with the application package.
While the official fee is CAD 50, there are other indirect costs that many applicants encounter during the process.
You must include two passport-sized photographs with your application. These must meet IRCC’s strict photo specifications.
Estimated cost: CAD 15–$30
Photo studios or drugstore photo services are the most common sources
Applicants are responsible for mailing the application package to the PR Card Processing Centre.
Regular mailing: CAD 5–$10
Tracked or expedited mailing: CAD 20–$40 (recommended)
If any of your documents are in a language other than English or French, certified translations are required.
Photocopying costs: CAD 5–$20
Certified translation: CAD 50–$150 per page
Some applicants choose to hire an immigration consultant or lawyer to assist with the application.
Average fee: CAD 300–$1,000
This is optional and not required by IRCC
There is no official expedited fee, but IRCC does offer urgent processing in certain situations, such as a family emergency or work travel. To request urgent processing, you must:
Write “Urgent – PR Card” on the envelope
Include proof of urgency (flight tickets, medical letters, etc.)
No additional fee is charged, but results are not guaranteed, and IRCC processes requests on a case-by-case basis.
If your PR card is lost, stolen, or damaged, you must apply for a replacement card.
Fee: CAD 50 (same as new or renewal application)
Additional cost if a police report, affidavit, or translation is needed
You must also submit IMM 5445 – Solemn Declaration as part of your replacement application.
If you are outside Canada and don’t have a valid PR card, you must apply for a Permanent Resident Travel Document (PRTD) to return.
PRTD application fee: CAD 50
Other possible costs: passport photos, courier fees, biometric charges
The PRTD is valid for a single entry into Canada and should be used only in urgent circumstances.
Most PR card applicants are exempt from biometrics, but if you’re applying from outside Canada, a biometrics collection may be required.
Biometrics fee: CAD 85 (per person)
Family rate: CAD 170 (maximum)
All PR card fees must be paid via IRCC’s online payment system:
Visit the IRCC fee payment page
Choose “Permanent Resident Card” as the service
Pay using a valid credit or debit card
Save and print the official receipt
Include the receipt in your PR card application package
Failure to include the payment receipt may result in application rejection or delays.
No – The CAD 50 application fee is non-refundable, even if:
Your application is refused
You withdraw your application
You no longer need the card after applying
Applicants should carefully review eligibility and residency requirements before submitting a payment.
| Category | Estimated Cost (CAD) |
|---|---|
| IRCC Application Fee | $50 |
| Passport Photos | $15–$30 |
| Mailing / Courier Service | $10–$40 |
| Photocopies / Document Prep | $5–$20 |
| Translation (if needed) | $50–$150 per page |
| Legal/Consultant Fees (optional) | $300–$1,000 |
| Total (Typical Applicant) | $80–$150 |
| Total (With Legal Help) | $400–$1,200 |
You do not need to pay a representative to apply. Free help is available through:
IRCC Call Centre
Settlement agencies
Public legal aid organizations
Online resources such as the IRCC Help Centre
Using official IRCC forms and instructions ensures that your application meets all legal requirements without unnecessary expenses.
Submit a complete application using the updated IMM 5444 form
Use the photo checklist to meet all specifications
Keep copies of everything you submit
Avoid third-party agencies unless legally certified
Don’t overpay for optional services unless necessary
The base cost of a Permanent Resident Card in Canada is only CAD 50, but applicants should plan for associated expenses such as photos, mail, translations, and possible legal advice. By understanding the full scope of PR card costs, applicants can prepare effectively, avoid delays, and maintain their permanent resident status smoothly and affordably.
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