Permanent Residence Cards

Permanent residents of Canada must hold a valid Permanent Residence (PR) card to confirm their status when travelling outside the country. The PR card serves as an official document that verifies permanent resident status and is required for re-entry into Canada via commercial transportation.

At Zohil-Morton Law, we assist individuals with PR card applications, renewals, and replacements, as well as permanent resident travel documents (PRTDs), ensuring full compliance with residency obligations.

Am I Eligible for a PR Card?

To be eligible for a PR card, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Be a permanent resident of Canada;
• Be physically present in Canada;
• Meet residency requirements; and,
• Not have lost their PR status.

If these conditions are met, an individual may be eligible for a PR card as proof of their permanent resident status, which is essential for re-entry into Canada after travelling.

PR Card Application

Upon approval of permanent residency in Canada, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) will automatically issue an individual’s first PR card, provided they submit a valid Canadian mailing address and photo within 180 days of becoming a permanent resident.

If an individual is unable to submit their Canadian mailing address and photo within 180 days of becoming a permanent resident, an application will need to be made for a PR card.

PR Card Renewal

PR cards are typically valid for five years and must be renewed to maintain proof of Canadian permanent resident status. PR cards may be renewed up to nine months before their expiration, or after their expiration. Timely renewal ensures that Canadian permanent residents continue to meet residency obligations required by IRCC, allowing individuals to maintain their status as a permanent resident of Canada.

Replacing a Lost, Stolen or Damaged PR Card

Permanent residents who lose their PR card must apply for a replacement and provide supporting documentation. If a PR card is stolen, applications must include a copy of a police report or incident number, if applicable. When applying to have a damaged PR card replaced, the card must be destroyed, and proof of destruction must be uploaded with the application. If an individual wishes to change the gender designation on their PR card, an application must be submitted along with appropriate supporting documentation.

Updating Information on a PR Card

An application is required to update information on a PR card, including changes to a legal name, gender identifier, name change after marriage or divorce, or an updated signature.

Permanent Resident Travel Document (PRTD)

If a permanent resident is outside Canada without a valid PR card, they must apply for a PRTD to return to Canada. To be eligible for a PRTD, an individual must:

• Be a permanent resident of Canada;
• Not possess a valid PR card showing their PR status;
• Be outside of Canada; and,
• Be returning to Canada by airplane, boat, train, or bus.

Legal Assistance for PR Card Applications

Ensuring the timely renewal or replacement of a PR card is essential to maintaining permanent resident status. At Zohil-Morton Law, we offer legal support for PR card applications, renewals, replacements, and PRTD requests, guiding clients through each step to ensure full compliance with immigration requirements.

If you are seeking professional advice on Canadian immigration matters, we are here to offer professional guidance and trusted, personalized support. With expertise in Canadian Immigration Law, we provide tailored legal services to ensure your immigration process is seamless and stress-free. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward your Canadian immigration journey.