How to Apply for PR Card Renewal in Canada: Step-by-Step Guide
A permanent resident card is very important for foreign nationals who are living in Canada permanently. Generally, the permanent resident card of Canada is valid for five years; on the other hand, some have a validity of only one year. Anyway, you should renew your permanent resident card once it has expired or will expire within nine months. Now, we will discuss the step-by-step procedure for Canada PR card renewal.
What is a PR Card?
A PR card is an official document issued by Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada to signify an individual as having permanent residence status in Canada. If you are traveling outside Canada and will be returning by airplane, boat, train, or bus, you would need either a PR card or a PRTD, under the Immigration and Refugee Protection Regulations, accompanied by a valid passport or a refugee travel document.
Note: If you are outside Canada and your PR card has expired, you can apply for a PRTD to help facilitate your return. You can also apply for a replacement in the case of a lost, stolen, or damaged PR card.
Who is Eligible to Apply for a PR Card?
To be eligible for a PR card, you must:
Be a permanent resident of Canada.
Physically reside in Canada
Meet the residency requirement.
Not be under an active removal order.
Not be a citizen of Canada.
Not have been convicted of any offense associated with the misuse of a PR card.
PR Card Renewal in Canada Required Documents
It goes without saying that you must have all of the necessary documents ready to properly submit your PR card renewal application. And here's the whole list of all the necessary documents for you:
Application Form (IMM 5444): Fill and sign an application form for the permanent resident card.
Photos: Two latest photos should be submitted according to the specified requirements in IRCC.
Primary Identification Document: You will be asked to provide a photocopy of your primary identification document, such as your passport.
Current/Previous PR Card issued: Attach one photocopy of the previous PR Card issued.
Other Supporting Documents: If there are any, these may be documents establishing your physical presence in Canada, or can be related to exceptions in respect of residence obligations.
How to Apply for Renewal or Replacement of PR Card?
After checking all of your documents and confirming that you are eligible, you should apply through the following steps:
Complete Form (IMM 5444) Application: There must be adherence to the instructions in the application to avoid a mistake.
Collect all documents: Scanned copies of your photograph, identity document, and supporting documents.
Fee: The renewal fee is currently $50 CAD, which must be paid through a credit card on the IRCC site.
Sending Application by Post: Mail the application form, supporting documents, and payment proof to:
PR Card Processing Center
Sydney, Nova Scotia
You can also apply for the PR card renewal online using the IRCC PR portal, which is a more convenient option for some applicants.
PR Card Renewal Processing Time
The IRCC estimates that the processing time for an application to replace or renew a PR card takes approximately 66 days. However, if you are an applicant for the first time, then it takes less, with approximate days being 35.
PR Card Fees
There is a $50 CAD fee for renewing or replacing a PR card. Similarly, the application fee for a Permanent Resident Travel Document (PRTD) is $50 CAD.
Cost:
Permanent Resident Card: CAN $50 per application.
Permanent Resident Travel Document: CAN $50 per application.
Additionally, you should know that the fees are subject to change; therefore, you can check the current fee structure at the IRCC website before applying.
Important Note:
The information provided here is intended to provide basic guidelines and shouldn't be taken as legal advice. Regulations and procedures may change; hence, it's always best to consult an immigration consultant if you have questions regarding whether or not you qualify to renew your PR card or more detailed assistance.
Also Read:- Canada Visa Processing Time Explained: Simple Guide For 2024
Conclusion
It is important to renew your Canada PR card in order to show proof of permanent residence, and if you plan on traveling, you must renew your card. If all of the papers and the renewal application process are completed correctly, the process will be quick and easy. Knowing about the changes that are made to the application method or eligibility requirements will always keep you prepared. Most importantly, do not forget to consult with a professional Canadian immigration consultant, it will make your application process much more smoother and efficient.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What should I do in case my PR card expires while I’m outside Canada? In case your permanent resident card expires while you are out of Canada, you will need to apply for Permanent Resident Travel Document (PRTD) prior to re-entering Canada.
2. How to check the PR renewal status? You can check your Canada PR renewal status on the official website of IRCC (Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada).
3. How long before my PR card expires should I apply for renewal? It’s recommended to apply for renewal if your PR card will expire in nine months or less, as the processing time can vary.
4. Can I renew my PR card online? Yes, you can submit your PR card renewal application online via the IRCC PR portal, making the process more convenient for many applicants.
5. What do I do if my PR card is stolen or lost? In the case of a loss or stolen PR card, you are required to apply for a replacement through a new application with relevant supporting documents and pay the renewal fee.
