Permanent Residence Renewal​

What Happens When Your Permanent Resident Card Expires?

When your permanent resident (PR) card expires, your status as a permanent resident in Canada remains unaffected, meaning you can stay in the country. However, certain provincial services may require you to present a valid PR card, depending on where you live. 

If your card has expired and you plan to travel outside Canada, you must renew your card before leaving. A valid PR card is essential for returning to Canada via commercial transportation such as planes, trains, buses, or boats. Without it, you will need a Permanent Resident Travel Document (PRTD) to re-enter Canada.

How to Apply for a Permanent Residence Renewal

Renewing your PR card is simple but requires attention to detail. Follow these steps to avoid delays:

• Fill Out the Application (IMM 5444): Start by completing the Application for a Permanent Resident Card. This form is available online and must be filled out accurately.

• Prepare Supporting Documents: Gather necessary documents, including proof of your permanent residency, recent photos that meet immigration guidelines, and your current or expired PR card (if applicable).

• Pay the Processing Fee: You’ll need to pay a CAN$50 fee online. Make sure to keep the receipt as you’ll need it for your application.

• Double-Check Your Application: Before submitting, verify that all forms are complete and that you’ve included all required documents to avoid rejection.

• Submit Your Application Online: Once your forms and documents are in order, submit everything through the online portal. Remember, processing times begin once your complete application is received.

• Wait for Processing: It typically takes at least three weeks to process a PR card renewal, though this may vary based on current demand. Keep track of your application status online.

What is the Fastest Route to Get PR in Canada?

If you find yourself in an urgent situation, such as needing to travel for work or dealing with a serious illness, you may qualify for urgent processing of your PR card renewal. However, to qualify, your reason for travel must be within the next three months and relate to specific circumstances, like a job offer, illness (yours or a family member’s), or the death of a close relative. 

It’s important to note that even if you qualify for urgent processing, there are no guarantees your card will be issued in time, as processing still takes a minimum of three weeks. 

Checking the current processing times and eligibility requirements on the Canadian government’s website is a smart first step before applying.

How Long Will it Take to Renew/Replace my PR Card?

About 108 days. Keep in mind that the processing time is calculated based on how long it took IRCC to process most applications, in the past.

You can also apply for urgent processing if you need your PR card sooner.

Do I Lose my PR Status if my PR Card Expires?

No. If your permanent resident (PR) card expires, you still have your PR status and can stay in Canada. However, if you travel outside Canada, you’ll need a valid PR Card to return to Canada by a commercial vehicle.

What Happens If my PR Card Expires When I’m Outside Canada?

It depends on how you plan to return to Canada.

If you’re returning by plane, train, bus or boat or any other commercial vehicle, you’ll need a valid PR card.

If you’re returning by a private vehicle, such as a car, truck, motorcycle, there are other documents you can use to re-enter the country. These documents include:

• Canadian passport
• Canadian birth certificate
• permanent residence card
• citizenship card
• Secure Certificate of Indian Status (SCIS) card or valid Certificate of Indian Status (CIS) card

How Can I Avoid Delays/Refusals in Processing my PR Card Application?

To avoid delays or a refusal, you must:

• fill out and sign the application form(s) properly
• include all the necessary documents
• pay the application fee

If your card was lost, stolen, destroyed or never received, fill out Section H (Solemn Declaration).

What Proof of Residency is Required for PR Card Renewal?

At least two documents showing your physical presence in Canada over the last five years are necessary. Bank statements, pay stubs, tax assessments, and utility bills are examples that usually work. You don’t have to cover every single month but do need to show a consistent pattern.

What Happens If I Haven’t Met the 730-Day Residency Requirement?

If you haven’t been in Canada for 730 days out of the last five years, your PR status could be at risk. Still, it’s possible to request renewal under Humanitarian and Compassionate grounds if you have strong reasons for your absence, like family emergencies abroad. Each case is reviewed individually.

What Should I Do If I Haven’t Received My PR Card After Six Weeks?

Sometimes, cards get lost in the mail. If you haven’t seen yours after six weeks, you’ll need to contact IRCC and may have to fill out a solemn declaration. After 180 days with no update, you’ll need to apply for a new card and pay the application fee again.

Can I Travel While My PR Card Renewal is in Process?

If your PR card is still valid, you can travel. But if it expires while you’re away, returning becomes tricky. You’d need to apply for a Permanent Resident Travel Document (PRTD) from outside Canada, and that process can take time.

What Are the Photo Requirements for PR Card Renewal?

Photos must be very specific: 50mm x 70mm dimensions, taken within six months, with a plain white background. Photos that don’t meet these standards could cause your application to be delayed or rejected.

Can I Renew My PR Card Online?

Yes, renewal applications can now be submitted online through the Permanent Residence Portal. This method lets you upload forms, supporting documents, and payments directly without having to print anything.

What Should I Do If My PR Card Is Lost, Stolen, or Damaged?

You must apply for a replacement immediately. Along with your application, you’ll need to include a solemn declaration explaining what happened. If theft was involved, a police report should also be attached. Damaged cards should be destroyed, and evidence of destruction may be required.

Can I Update Personal Information on My PR Card, Such as a Name Change?

Absolutely. If you’ve changed your name or other details legally, you can apply for a new PR card reflecting those changes. Supporting legal documents like marriage certificates or name change certificates must be included in your application.

Why Choose SEP Immigration for Your PR Card Renewal?

At SEP Immigration, we provide reliable and stress-free guidance throughout the entire PR card renewal process. 

Our expert team ensures your application is filled out correctly and submitted with all the necessary supporting documents. This prevents common issues like incomplete applications or missing information, which could delay the process. 

We also help clients navigate the urgent processing route, ensuring their documents meet the criteria for faster approval when time is critical. By choosing SEP Immigration, you get peace of mind knowing that the PR card renewal process is in good hands.