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Permanent Resident Card: Key to Staying in Canada

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by Kathy Watkins

How to Obtain Your Canadian PR Card

If you’re a new permanent resident in Canada, there’s no need to apply for a PR card initially. Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) will automatically issue one to your Canadian mailing address. After you arrive in Canada, you have 180 days to provide your address to the IRCC.

In case you fail to submit your Canadian address within this timeframe, you will need to apply for the PR card yourself.

Processing Times The processing duration for your PR card varies depending on the specific immigration program through which you obtained your permanent residency. It may take from 14 to 27 months. The timeline also depends on whether you’re applying for your first PR card or renewing an existing one.

Permanent Resident Card

Eligibility Requirements Before you apply for a PR card, ensure you meet these criteria:

Payment Details The processing fee is $50, and payment must be made online, as the Canadian government will not accept any alternative methods. After payment, print the receipt and attach it to your physical application before submission.

Validity of PR Cards PR cards are typically valid for five years, although some may only last for one year. Check the expiry date printed on your card. To avoid any disruptions, apply for a renewal six to nine months before your current PR card expires.

Guiding You Through the Canadian PR Card Application Process

At Immigration to Canada, we help you understand the essentials of acquiring a Permanent Residence Card (PR Card), a crucial document issued by the Canadian government to individuals who have obtained permanent resident status. This card plays a vital role in confirming your residency status, especially when traveling internationally to and from Canada.

Essential Functions of the PR Card:

Verification of Permanent Residency:

The PR Card serves as proof of an individual’s status as a permanent resident in Canada, particularly necessary when re-entering the country via commercial transportation like airplanes, boats, trains, or buses.

Travel Necessity:

Although not a standalone travel document, the PR Card is often required when returning to Canada using commercial means. It should be presented alongside the passport issued by your home country.

Renewal and Validity:

Typically, PR Cards are valid for five years but may be issued for just one in certain circumstances. It’s crucial to renew your PR Card before it expires to avoid any travel inconveniences.

Residency Requirements:

Maintaining your permanent resident status requires meeting specific residency obligations. Your PR Card helps in monitoring these requirements, especially important if you frequently travel outside Canada.

At Immigration to Canada, we aim to simplify the immigration process for you, ensuring that you are well-informed and prepared throughout your journey to becoming a permanent resident.

Permanent Resident Card Application Process

At Immigration to Canada, we understand how important it is for new permanent residents to have their PR cards. Fortunately, if you’ve recently become a permanent resident, you don’t need to worry about applying for a PR card right away. A PR card will be mailed to you automatically once you’ve immigrated to Canada and provided your Canadian mailing address.

However, certain situations require individuals to apply for a PR card. You need to submit an application if: 

New immigrants to Canada automatically receive a Permanent Resident (PR) Card after providing their Canadian mailing address. However, certain situations require individuals to apply for a PR card themselves. Consider applying if: 

To replace or renew your PR card, you must submit a physical application to one of the Case Processing Centers designated by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).

Permanent Resident Card

Handling Lost or Expired Permanent Resident Cards

Dealing with a Lost PR Card
If your Permanent Resident (PR) card is lost, destroyed, or stolen, it’s crucial to notify the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) right away. Taking immediate action can prevent misuse of your card. You can report this issue by following the online guidelines provided by IRCC. After reporting, you can proceed to apply for a replacement card, which involves a process similar to renewing a PR card in Canada.

Renewing an Expired PR Card
Having an expired PR card does not affect your status as a permanent resident. However, a valid card is necessary for travel purposes and to access specific services and benefits in your region. If your card is expired or is set to expire within the next nine months, it is advisable to renew it before any travel plans.

Guiding You to Canadian Permanent Residency
There are numerous pathways to attaining Permanent Residency in Canada, with over 100 different visa and immigration options available. Our expert Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultants (RCICs) at Immigration to Canada are ready to guide you in selecting the most suitable route for your journey to Canadian PR. Let us help make your Canadian dreams a reality.

Expedited Processing for Permanent Resident Cards

In specific circumstances, the Canadian government may offer expedited processing for permanent resident (PR) cards. To qualify for this fast-tracked service, applicants must have travel plans within the next three months due to:

Embark on Your Path to a Wonderful Life in Canada

Keep in mind that even if you meet the eligibility requirements for urgent processing, there is no guarantee that the Canadian government will be able to fast-track your application or ensure delivery of PR cards on time. Therefore, it’s always advisable to keep a valid PR card in case of emergencies.

If your permanent resident card is nearing its expiration date and you haven’t yet applied for Canadian citizenship, you should consider applying for a PR card renewal.

For more information on immigration programs and services, consult “Immigration to Canada” to ensure a smooth transition and stay compliant with all requirements. 

FAQ
How Long Do You Need to Spend to Keep Your Permanent Resident Status in Canada?

If you are a permanent resident, you must spend at least two cumulative years within a five-year period in Canada. If you reside outside of Canada for more than three years, you risk losing your permanent resident status.

How Long to Obtain Permanent Resident Status?

The timeline to become a permanent resident varies based on the immigration program. For instance, Express Entry typically takes 6 to 8 months, while Family Sponsorship can extend to a year or more. The processing also hinges on Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) having all necessary documents.

On average, new PR cards take about 45 days to process once IRCC has all required information. Renewed cards may take approximately 104 days.

Can You Remain in Canada While Awaiting PR Approval?

Yes, you can, provided your legal status is maintained. Temporary residents can stay in Canada for a specified period, but this status must stay valid while you await your PR approval.

Is a Visa Required for Canadian PR Holders?

No, with Canadian PR, you don’t need an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) or visitor's visa to enter Canada. However, it is advisable to carry your PR card when traveling.

Is PR Possible After One Year?

Yes, it is. One effective method is to obtain a Canada work visa or enroll in a 1-year course and then apply for a PGWP. With at least one year of Canadian work experience, you can apply for permanent residency through the CEC program.

Is PR Possible After a 2-Year Study Program?

Not directly, but studying in Canada can lead to permanent residency. Completing at least an eight-month program at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) may make you eligible for a PGWP, allowing you to gain the Canadian work experience needed to apply for permanent residence through programs like the CEC.

Can Canadian PR Holders Visit the USA?

All Canadian permanent residents require a nonimmigrant visa to enter the US, unless they are from a Visa Waiver Program (VWP) country, meet VWP requirements, and plan to visit for 90 days or less.

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