How to Renew Your Canadian Permanent Resident (PR) Card

If you’re a permanent resident of Canada, ensuring your PR card stays valid is very important especially if you plan to travel or prove your status when accessing services. In this post, you’ll find a practical, step-by-step guide to renewing your PR card, avoiding delays, and knowing what to do if you’re outside Canada when it expires.

What Is a PR Card & Why It Matters

A Permanent Resident (PR) card is the official document showing your status as a permanent resident in Canada. Although your status itself does not expire when the card does, the PR card is necessary to travel back to Canada by commercial means (plane, train, bus, etc.).

If you’re travelling in a private vehicle, you can use your PR card or other documents to return to Canada.

A private vehicle can be a car, truck, motorcycle, or recreational vehicle that you:

• Own

• Borrow, or

• Rent

If your PR card expires and you’re abroad, you’ll need a Permanent Resident Travel Document (PRTD) to re-enter Canada.

Because of that, renewing the card before expiration is wise.

When and Who Should Renew

• You should apply for renewal if your PR card will expire in less than 9 months or has already expired.

• You must be physically in Canada when you apply.

• You need to meet the residency obligation: having been physically present in Canada for at least 730 days (2 years) in the last 5 years (with some exceptions).

• You cannot be under a removal order or have certain criminal convictions.

Step-by-Step: How to Renew Your PR Card

Here’s a roadmap of what you need to do:

1. Gather Required Documents

   1. Your current PR card (if you still have it)

   2. Proof of identity (passport, national ID, etc.)

   3. Recent photos meeting IRCC’s specifications (size, background, etc.)

   4. Documents showing you met the residency requirement (bank statements, tax assessments, utility bills, lease agreements, employment records, etc.)

   
   

2. Complete the Application

   1. Use form IMM 5444 (Application for a Permanent Resident Card) for renewal or replacement.

   2. Fill out the checklist (IMM 5644) to confirm you have all supporting documents.

   3. If someone is helping you (a representative), include IMM 5476; or to let someone check status, include IMM 5475.

      
      

3. Pay the Fee

   1. The renewal fee is CAD $50.

      
      

4. Submit Your Application

   1. Make sure your application is complete. Missing items lead to delays.

If You’re Outside Canada When Your Card Expires

• You’ll need a Permanent Resident Travel Document (PRTD) to return to Canada.

• Once you’re back in Canada, you can apply for the PR card renewal as usual.

Final Thoughts

Renewing your PR card doesn’t have to be stressful. If you start early, stay organized, and follow each step carefully. The key is to ensure your application is complete and meets all IRCC requirements.

If you ever feel unsure or have questions about eligibility, documentation, or the renewal process, you can contact Visa Vlogs – Rajan Jain Immigration Consulting Inc. for professional assistance. Our licensed consultants can guide you through the process, ensuring your application is accurate, complete, and compliant with current immigration regulations.

References:

• Get a Permanent Resident (PR) Card

• Document Checklist

• Travelling outside Canada as a Permanent Resident

Disclaimer:

This blog is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as legal or immigration advice. Every case is unique, and we recommend consulting a licensed immigration professional for personalized guidance.

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