PR Card Renewal in Canada
Renew Your Permanent Resident Card and Maintain Your Status
Renewing your Permanent Resident (PR) card ensures you maintain proof of your status in Canada. This card is essential for travel and identification, and the process must be handled carefully to comply with Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) requirements.
Why Renew Your PR Card?
Your PR card has an expiry date, so renewal is necessary to maintain valid proof of your permanent resident status. Without a valid card, you cannot travel back to Canada or use it as official ID.
- Travel Authorization: A valid PR card is required to return to Canada after traveling abroad.
- Legal Identification: It serves as proof of your permanent resident status in Canada.
- Update Information: Renewal is needed if your card is lost, stolen, damaged, or if you’ve legally changed your name.
Eligibility Criteria for PR Card Renewal
To renew your PR card, you must meet the following requirements:
- Permanent Resident Status: You must be a permanent resident of Canada.
- Physical Presence: You must have been physically present in Canada for at least 730 days (2 years) within the last five years.
- Exceptions: Time outside Canada may count if:
- You were accompanying a Canadian citizen spouse, common-law partner, or parent.
- You were employed full-time by a Canadian business, federal, provincial, or public administration.
- You were accompanying a permanent resident spouse, common-law partner, or parent employed full-time by a Canadian business or public administration.
If you are outside Canada without a valid PR card, you must apply for a Permanent Resident Travel Document (PRTD) to return and renew your card.
When Should You Apply?
You should submit a PR card renewal application in the following cases:
- Your PR card will expire within the next 9 months.
- You did not receive your PR card within 180 days after arriving in Canada as a permanent resident.
- Your PR card is lost, stolen, or damaged.
- You have changed your legal name and need to update the card.
Required Documents for PR Card Renewal
Applicants generally need to provide:
- Current PR card (if available)
- Proof of residency in Canada (travel records, tax documents)
- Valid government-issued identification
- Completed Application for a Permanent Resident Card form
- Payment receipt of applicable fees
PR Card Renewal Application Process
- Step 1: Prepare Documents – Gather all required documents, including your PR card, IDs, and proof of residency.
- Step 2: Complete Application – Fill out the PR card renewal application accurately.
- Step 3: Pay Fees – The government fee for PR card renewal is $50.
- Step 4: Submit Application – Mail your application package to the designated IRCC office.
- Step 5: Wait for Processing – Processing generally takes around 45 days, but delays can occur during peak periods.
PR Card Renewal Fees
- PR Card Renewal: CAD $50
- Permanent Resident Travel Document (PRTD): CAD $50
- Additional Services: Fees may vary depending on the service required
Fees are per individual, so if you are applying for family members, each person must submit a separate application and pay the corresponding fees.
How We Support You
At Shreehari Immigration, we guide permanent residents through every step of the PR card renewal process:
- Eligibility assessment: Determine if you meet residency requirements.
- Document preparation: Ensure all forms and supporting documents are complete.
- Fee guidance: Correctly calculate and submit all required payments.
- Application support: Assist with filling forms and tracking status with IRCC.
Frequently Asked Questions
Typically 45 days, but may vary depending on IRCC workload and peak periods.
No. You must be in Canada to submit the application and pick up your new card. If you must travel, apply for a PRTD.
You may apply on Humanitarian and Compassionate grounds, providing compelling reasons for your absence.
You must report it and apply for a replacement PR card immediately.
Take the Next Step
Book Your Consultation Today – Get personalized guidance from a licensed Canadian immigration consultant.
Get Your Free Eligibility Assessment – Check if you qualify for PR card renewal.