The Permanent Resident (PR) Card is the official document that proves your permanent resident status in Canada. It is a credit card-sized photo ID issued by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). All permanent residents who live in Canada need a valid PR card to re-enter Canada by commercial vehicle, flight, bus, or train after travelling abroad.
What Is the PR Card Used For?
Your PR card proves your permanent resident status in Canada. You need it to re-enter Canada after international travel when travelling by plane, ship, bus, or train. It also serves as a valid government-issued photo ID for many purposes within Canada including opening bank accounts, applying for provincial health cards, and accessing government services.
The Residency Obligation
As a permanent resident you must meet the residency obligation to keep your PR status. You must be physically present in Canada for at least 730 days (2 years) out of every 5-year period. Days spent outside Canada accompanying a Canadian citizen spouse, working for a Canadian company, or accompanying a PR spouse can sometimes count toward the 730 days.
Important: Your PR status is separate from your PR card. Your status does not expire even if your card does. However, you cannot board a plane to Canada without a valid PR card or a Permanent Resident Travel Document (PRTD). Renew your PR card before it expires.
Applying for Your First PR Card
After Landing in Canada
Your first PR card is applied for automatically or through your initial PR application. IRCC mails your card to your Canadian address within 6 to 8 weeks of landing. Ensure you provide a permanent Canadian mailing address.
If You Did Not Receive Your Card
If your PR card did not arrive within 8 weeks of landing, log in to your IRCC account to check status or contact IRCC to update your address and request your card.
Renewing Your PR Card
When to Apply for Renewal
Apply to renew your PR card 6 months before it expires. Do not wait until it expires as you will be unable to board international flights back to Canada. Processing typically takes 4 to 6 months.
Eligibility for Renewal
You must have met your residency obligation (730 days in Canada in the last 5 years) to renew your PR card. If you have not met this obligation IRCC may initiate a process to determine if you should lose your PR status.
How to Apply Online
Log in to your IRCC secure account at canada.ca and complete the PR card renewal application (IMM 5444). Upload digital photos meeting IRCC specifications, pay the $50 fee, and submit. Your card is mailed to your Canadian address.
If Your PR Card Expires While You Are Abroad
If you are outside Canada and your PR card has expired or been lost, you cannot board a commercial flight back without travel documents. Apply for a Permanent Resident Travel Document (PRTD) at the nearest Canadian visa office or embassy. You must demonstrate you have met your residency obligation to receive a PRTD. Processing takes 2 to 4 weeks.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I work in Canada with an expired PR card?
Yes. Your PR status does not expire when your card does. You can continue working in Canada with an expired PR card. However you cannot re-enter Canada from abroad without a valid card or PRTD.
How long is a PR card valid?
PR cards issued to adults are valid for 5 years. Cards issued to children under 14 may be valid for only 1 year as children change appearance quickly.
When can I apply for Canadian citizenship?
You can apply for Canadian citizenship after being physically present in Canada for 1,095 days (3 years) out of the last 5 years as a permanent resident.
Written and reviewed by the GuideCAN Editorial Team
Editorially reviewed against IRCC guidance. This article is general information, not immigration or legal advice.
Official sources
Official rules, fees, deadlines and program availability can change. Confirm the current details before acting.