We Can Support Your PR Card Renewal Application
PR Card renewal is important to maintain proof you have met the requirements for permanent residence. Your Permanent Resident (PR) Card is also essential for travel inside and outside of Canada, and as proof of your identity when applying for documents such as Canadian driver’s license and healthcare cards.
Outlined below are the steps to apply for, renew or replace your PR Card, and frequently asked questions about the process and the card itself.
Right then, let’s get started!
What Is a PR Card and Why You Need It
Your Permanent Resident (PR) Card is a credit card sized piece of identification used by the Canadian government to help them keep track of the time you spend in Canada in order to meet your residency obligation.
To keep up this obligation you must spend two years out of every five in Canada. Essentially, it proves you’ve been living and filing taxes in Canada; the basic things that are required to maintain permanent resident status.
A PR Card is essential for when you re-enter Canada by commercial transportation after traveling overseas, you won’t be able to board a flight without it.
Lastly, it is also required when applying for government services and programs in Canada such as getting your Canadian driver’s license, health care, social benefits, and more. It is therefore crucial to ensure you always have a valid PR Card.
What Is the Residency Requirement… and Why Is It Important When Renewing My PR Card?
The residency requirement is a rule that you must meet inorder to apply for a renewal of your PR Card.
The rule says that you should have resided in Canada for at least 730 days out of the past 1825 days or meet one of the exemptions.
Put another way you need to be physically present in Canada for 2 years in each 5 year period. Or inversely you can spend up to 3 years or 1095 days outside of Canada in each 5 year period.
Making an application to renew your PR Card without meeting these requirements can trigger a residency determination and risks possible loss of Permanent Residency, so it is important to calculate your residency accurately before you apply.
Your Steps for PR Card Renewal
To renew your PR Card in Canada, you must submit the application to Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). This handy step-by-step guide will walk you through how to renew your PR Card:
- Gather Required Documents: Before starting your application for PR Card renewal, ensure you’ve got to hand all the documents you need. These include proof of meeting your residency obligation and identity documents like a passport, health card, or driver’s license.
- Complete the Application Form: You can access the application form online at the IRCC’s website. Be sure to fill it out correctly to avoid it being sent back to you for resubmission. This will double the time it takes and its cost!
- Pay the Fees: Pay the appropriate processing fee online.
- Submit Your Application: Mail your completed application form along with your supporting documents to the IRCC office closest to you. It is also possible to renew your PR Card online. It usually takes about 100 days (three months) for PR Card renewals, but it is crucial to check for the current processing times, as events like the recent labor dispute can affect them.
- Keep a Copy and Check Your Application Status: It’s always a good idea to keep a copy of your application and supporting evidence. You can also check your status online using your application number.
It’s important to apply for PR Card renewal before it expires to avoid difficulties when traveling or accessing government services in Canada. If you need assistance or have any questions during the application process, you can contact IRCC or consult an immigration professional.
How Much Does It Cost to Renew a PR Card?
The cost to renew your PR Card is CAD $50. However, keep in mind that this is subject to change, so it is best to check the latest information on the government website.
What Type of Documentation Is Needed for PR Card Renewal?
To renew your PR Card in Canada, you’ll need the following documents:
- Proof of residency in Canada such as a utility bill or bank statement, notice of assessment, rental agreements, bank statements, paystubs.
- You must provide proof of identity. These can be documents such as a passport, driver’s license, birth certificate, and others. These documents must show your photo and name to confirm your identity.
- Recent Photographs: Your photos must meet the IRCC’s size and quality requirements.
- Evidence of Permanent Residence Status: This is normally your Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR) or Landing Document.
- The Application Fee: Once you’ve paid your $50 fee, submit a copy of the receipt with your application.
- Your PR Card.
