Once you’ve become a Canadian permanent resident, you have a few obligations, and one of them is ensuring your PR card is always valid when residing in Canada. To do this, it’s important to know the basics such as when and how to renew PR card, and the permanent resident card renewal requirements. In this complete guide, you will find answers to the top-asked questions about renewing your Canadian PR card renewal.
Eligibility for PR Card Renewal
When you travel abroad, you should present a valid PR card when you return to Canada. A Canada PR card serves to prove your legal permanent resident status. Therefore, it is essential that you make sure your PR card is valid by renewing it timely. You are eligible to renew a PR card if you meet the requirements:
- You hold a valid permanent residency in Canada.
- You must submit your PR card renewal application within Canada.
- You have physically resided in Canada for at least 730 days within the past 5 years, except that you are traveling with a Canadian citizen spouse or parent; or that you are employed full-time by a Canadian government or business.
When to Renew PR Card
If you are eligible for a PR card renewal, please keep in mind that only under the following circumstances should you apply for a PR card renewal, otherwise your application may not be processed:
- Your PR card has expired or will expire in no more than 9 months.
- Your PR card is lost, stolen, or destroyed, and you want to replace it.
- You didn’t receive your PR card 180 days after immigrating to Canada.
- You need to update your PR card if you have changed your name, citizenship, and gender designation.
- You need to correct the date of birth on your PR card.
How Can I Renew My PR Card
If you need to renew your PR card, you need to prepare the following documents for the PR card renewal application:
- Completed and signed application form IMM 5444.
- Completed form IMM 5644.
- Printed receipt of the fee payment.
- Two pieces of proof of your residency in Canada for 5 years such as employment records and bank statements.
- A copy of your PR card.
- A copy of one valid identity document such as a passport, or travel document.
- A photocopy of your birth certificate if you are under the age of 18.
- One 50x70mm digital photo taken within 12 months if you apply online.
- Two identical 50x70mm photos taken within 12 months if you apply by paper.
Please note that for documents that are not in English or French, you should include a certified or affidavit translation of the documents.
Once you have all the documents at hand, you may follow the guide on how to renew PR card online:
Step 1. Access the Permanent Residence Portal and sign in to your account using a valid e-mail address.
Step 2. Select one program you’d like to apply for and click “Apply for a PR card”.
Step 3. Fill out the form IMM 5444 in the online portal.
Step 4. Upload the required documents on the page and click “Submit your application”. If your request is urgent, check “Yes, my request is urgent” and include a supporting document.
Step 5. If your application is properly completed, you will get your card in the mail or a notification on when and where to pick up your card by e-mail.
If you are renewing permanent resident card for your minors, you can check out this dedicated guide. PR card renewal for minors can provide more relevant information.
Where to Submit Your PR Card Renewal Application
If you can’t apply online, instead you can submit a paper application:
- If by mail, you may send your application and all the required documents mentioned in a stamped envelope to this address: Case Processing Centre — PR card, P.O. Box 10020, SYDNEY, NS B1P 7C1, Canada
- If by courier, to this address: Case Processing Centre – PR card, 49 Dorchester Street, Sydney, NS, B1P 5Z2, Canada
If you request urgent processing on your application, write “Urgent” on your envelope. Additionally, provide your date of travel and attach a supporting document.
If your application is properly completed, you will get your card in the mail or a notification on when and where to pick up your card by letter.
How Long Does It Take to Renew PR Card
The PR card renewal process generally takes about 73 days. The processing times may vary depending on how easily your information can be verified and how long you can respond to any requests or concerns. You may be eligible for an urgent permanent resident card processing if you must travel within the next three months due to the following:
- Work that is relevant to your current job.
- A job opportunity.
- Serious illness of your own or a family member.
- Death of a family member.
How Much Does It Cost to Renew PR Card
It costs $CAN 50 to renew a permanent resident card. You must pay the application fee with a bank card online. After that, print two copies of the receipt and attach one to your application. You need to provide a valid e-mail address when paying the application fee on the portal.
How to Check Your PR Card Renewal Status
Once you submit the renewal application, it is essential that you check the process from time to time in case of any new requests. There are two ways to check the process. You can check the application processing status on the IRCC website. Or you can use the Client application status tool to get updates using your personal information. Another way is to call the IRCC office at 1-888-242-2100 and provide the application details and any relevant information.
What Do I Do If I Haven’t Received My PR Card?
Generally, it takes at least six weeks for your PR card to be mailed to you. Beyond this timeframe, if you have not received your renewed PR card yet, you may contact the IRCC office at 1-888-242-2100 for the status of your PR card renewal application. Provide the application details and any relevant information at the time of inquiry. The IRCC representative will guide you on the appropriate steps to solve the issue.
How to Create a Photo for PR Card Renewal
A 50x70mm PR card photo is required if you renew PR card online. Taking a photo at photo studios can be money-consuming, so why not create one at home instead? It is just as easy as getting one in pricey photo studios but cost-free! Use a smartphone to take pictures for the best results. Then use AiPassportPhotos to make a compliant photo for your PR card renewal. It is an online biometric photo editor backed by advanced AI tech. Such a professional photo tool comes in handy whenever making biometric photos. Here is a step-by-step guide:
Step 1: Take a photo
Set the smartphone camera 1.5 to 2 meters from you. Ask your assistant to take multiple shots. If you are taking photos yourself, use a tripod and turn on the burst mode on your phone. After that, select the best picture.
Step 2: Crop the photo with AiPassportPhotos
Upload the picture you just took to the AipassportPhotos website. It will run a quick compliance test based on the official requirements. If the picture can’t be used as a PR card photo, you will receive detailed feedback via email.
If the picture passes the compliance test, AipassportPhotos will convert the photo size to 50x70mm and remove unwanted backgrounds automatically to meet the photo requirements 100% compliant.
Step 3: Download the photo
Download the digital image and printable photograph template of your PR card photo. If necessary, print it on high-quality photo paper with a printer, or print it at a photocopy store nearby.
FAQs
How do I maintain Canadian PR outside Canada?
As a Canadian permanent resident, it is your obligation to ensure that your PR card remains valid. If you know your PR card will expire when traveling, you should renew PR card before leaving the country. If you’re outside Canada and don’t have a valid PR card, you should apply for a permanent resident travel document before returning, and apply for a PR card when you return to Canada.
Can a Canadian PR work in the US?
Yes, you can work in the US if you have a job offer from a US employer and have a valid US work visa. During your stay in the US, you need to ensure your Canadian PR card is valid by renewing it timely.
How many countries can I visit with Canadian PR?
With Canadian PR status, you have the privilege of visa-free access to 35 countries as of 2024. Before planning your trip, however, it is vital to check the entry requirements and travel restrictions, and more importantly, check your PR card validity. Head over to Canadian PR visa free countries guide and check if your destination country allows you to travel without visa.
Conclusion
This complete guide covers everything about the Canada PR card renewal, including when and how to renew a PR card, the permanent resident card renewal requirements, and eligibility. If you are required to renew your PR card, it is essential that you file the correct and necessary documents for a smooth Canada PR card renewal process. If any issues, contact the IRCC office timely and ask for assistance.
Erin Lo