Replace or Renew a Permanent Resident Card (PR Card)

Who is Eligible for a PR Card Renewal?

Individuals eligible to apply for Permanent Resident Card renewal must be permanent residents within Canada who would like to apply for:

• an initial (first) PR Card
• renewal of a PR Card that has or will soon expire or
• replacement of a PR Card that has been lost, stolen or damaged.

Eligibility Criteria for a Permanent Resident Card:

The applicant

• must be a permanent resident of Canada
• must be physically present in Canada
• should not be under an effective removal order
• should not be a Canadian citizen or a registered Indian under the Indian Act, and
• should not be convicted of an offense related to the misuse of a Permanent Resident Card.

How to Apply for a PR Card Renewal

The application process to renew a PR Card for Canada requires individuals to file form IMM 5444 and submit the required documents in order to replace the card that has expired or will soon expire. Lost, stolen, destroyed or expired immigration documents issued by the Government of Canada can be replaced. To have a PR Card renewed, individuals must complete an application and pay the applicable processing fee.

There is no need to contact the IRCC (formerly known as CIC) if your card has expired (or is due to expire).

Documents required with your application:

• Your Permanent Resident Card (if your card has expired). If it is due to expire, you can keep it with you and return it to the IRCC (formerly known as CIC) officer at a local IRCC (formerly known as CIC) office when you go to collect your new card.
• A copy of your valid passport or travel document, or a copy of the passport or travel document you held at the time you became a permanent resident. Please note that if photocopies are not clear, your application will be returned to you.
• Photos. Consult the Photo Specifications Appendix in the guide for more information. If your photos do not meet the requirements, they will not be accepted.
• Any other identity documents specified in the Document Checklist (which will be part of the application kit).
• should not be convicted of an offense related to the misuse of a Permanent Resident Card.

What Are the Steps in the PR Card Renewal Process?

• Complete your application quickly and correctly with our step-by-step guidance that leads you through each question or download and complete blank forms available directly form the IRCC (formerly known as the CIC).
• Pay he government filing fee online. The fee paid to the Government of Canada is separate from the fee paid to Immigration Direct.
• Upon approval of your application a PR Card will be sent to you.

Permanent Resident Card FAQ’s

What are the eligibility requirements to apply for a Permanent Resident Card?

In order to apply for a Permanent Resident Card, you must have been granted Permanent Resident Status by IRCC (formerly known as CIC). Individuals who have not already been granted Permanent Resident Status must file an application based on family sponsorship, or through an approved business program.

Why do I need to replace my expired Permanent Resident Card?

Permanent Resident Cards are a required to re-enter Canada after international travel. In addition, Permanent Resident Cards serve as proof of status and may be requested by government agencies in Canada to show authorization to live and work, or to establish eligibility for a benefit reserved for Permanent Residents.

Will I lose Permanent Resident Status if I don't replace my expired Permanent Resident Card?

No. The only way that you can lose Permanent Resident Status is by failing to meet the residency requirement, or committing a serious crime. Your Permanent Resident Card is proof of your valid status and should be replaced so that you maintain the ability to travel.

What is the Residence Requirement to maintain Permanent Resident status?

To keep your status as a permanent resident, you must live in Canada for at least two years within a five-year period.

Can I apply for a new or replacement Permanent Resident Card from outside Canada?

Generally you must be physically present in Canada to apply for a new or replacement Permanent Resident Card. If you lose your card or it expires while you are outside Canada, you should contact the Canadian Embassy, Consulate or High Commission closest to you.

What is the difference between a Permanent Resident and a Landed Immigrant?

The terms "Permanent Resident" and "Landed Immigrant" both refer to individuals who have been granted authorization to live and work in Canada on a permanent basis. Historically these individuals were referred to as "Landed Immigrants," but that term was replaced by "Permanent Resident" when IRCC (formerly known as CIC) introduced the Permanent Resident Card in 2002.

Forms you may also need to file