How to Get a Permanent Resident Card in Canada: Full Step-by-Step Guide

Understanding the Canadian Permanent Resident (PR) Card

A Permanent Resident Card is a vital identity document issued by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) that serves as official proof of permanent resident status in Canada. This card is required for international travel and is essential for re-entering Canada via a commercial carrier. All individuals granted permanent residence must apply for a PR card shortly after arrival, or renew it when it expires.

Who Is Eligible for a Permanent Resident Card?

To be eligible for a PR card, applicants must:

• Hold valid permanent resident status in Canada

• Be physically present in Canada

• Not be subject to a removal order

• Not under investigation for misrepresentation or fraud

• Comply with residency obligations (at least 730 days in Canada during the last 5 years)

Steps to Apply for a Permanent Resident Card

1. Prepare Your Application Package

Before applying, ensure you have:

• IMM 5444 form (Application for a PR Card)

• Photocopy of your Record of Landing (IMM 1000) or Confirmation of Permanent Residence (IMM 5292 or IMM 5688)

• Two passport-sized photos meeting the PR card photo specifications

• Copy of a valid passport or travel document

• Proof of residency in Canada, such as tax documents, lease agreements, utility bills, or employment records

If you’re renewing your card, include your previous PR card with the application.

2. Pay the Processing Fee

The current application fee for a PR card is CAD 50. You must pay it online through the IRCC payment portal and include the receipt in your application.

3. Submit the Application to the Correct Address

Mail the complete application package to the PR Card Processing Centre in Sydney, Nova Scotia, Canada. Always double-check the latest mailing address on the IRCC official website before submission.

PR Card Renewal Process

When Should You Renew Your PR Card?

• If your PR card is expired or will expire within 9 months

• If your card is lost, stolen, or damaged

• If your legal name has changed

To renew, follow the same steps as a first-time applicant. However, ensure you provide evidence of your residency in Canada for at least 730 days out of the last 5 years.

Processing Times for Permanent Resident Cards

PR card processing times vary depending on application volume. As of the latest data:

• Initial PR card after landing: 1 to 2 months

• Renewal or replacement: 2 to 6 months

• Urgent processing (if you need to travel soon): Must provide proof of urgency, such as medical appointments or family emergencies

How to Replace a Lost, Stolen, or Damaged PR Card

If your PR card is lost, stolen, or destroyed, you must:

1. Report the loss to IRCC using IMM 5445 (Solemn Declaration Form)

2. Fill out IMM 5444 for replacement

3. Include any police reports or supporting documents

4. Pay the CAD 50 fee

5. Submit your application to the PR Card Processing Centre

Urgent Processing of PR Card

To request urgent processing, you must demonstrate valid reasons such as:

• Imminent international travel with a fixed date

• Family emergency (e.g., illness or death)

• Work-related obligations abroad

Provide supporting documents like flight itineraries, letters from employers, or medical records. Note: Urgent processing is not guaranteed and is assessed on a case-by-case basis.

Residency Obligation: Key to PR Card Renewal

To maintain your PR status, you must meet the residency requirement:

• At least 730 days (2 years) of physical presence in Canada over the past 5 years

IRCC may also count time spent abroad if you were:

• Accompanying a Canadian citizen spouse or parent

• Employed full-time by a Canadian business

• Accompanying a PR employed by a Canadian business overseas

Provide supporting documentation if you are relying on these exceptions.

Traveling Without a PR Card

If you’re outside Canada and your PR card is lost or expired, you must obtain a Permanent Resident Travel Document (PRTD) from the nearest Canadian visa office.

To Apply for PRTD:

• Fill out the IMM 5524 application form

• Submit proof of PR status and residency compliance

• Pay the CAD 50 fee

• Attend an interview or biometric collection (if required)

A PRTD is a one-time entry document, and you should apply for a new PR card immediately upon your return to Canada.

Common Reasons for PR Card Application Refusal

• Incomplete application

• Insufficient residency days

• Missing documentation

• Misrepresentation or fraudulent documents

• PR status under review or appeal

To avoid rejection, double-check your documents, follow IRCC instructions precisely, and consider consulting a licensed immigration consultant for assistance.

How to Check Your PR Card Application Status

You can check your application status via:

• IRCC online account

• Client Application Status (CAS) tool

• By calling the IRCC Call Centre at 1-888-242-2100 (from inside Canada)

Have your application number or UCI (Unique Client Identifier) ready when checking.

Permanent Resident Card vs. Canadian Citizenship

While a PR card confirms your status, it does not grant citizenship rights. You must maintain your PR status and meet residency, language, and tax requirements before applying for Canadian citizenship.

PR Card Holders Cannot:

• Vote in federal or provincial elections

• Hold a Canadian passport

• Run for political office

However, PR cardholders enjoy:

• Access to healthcare

• Right to work and study

• Protection under Canadian law

Final Thoughts on Obtaining a PR Card in Canada

Getting a Permanent Resident Card in Canada is a straightforward yet essential process for newcomers and long-term residents alike. Whether you’re applying for the first time, renewing your card, or replacing a lost one, understanding each step ensures you maintain your legal status and enjoy full access to the benefits of Canadian residency.