Permanent Resident (PR) Card

What is a PR Card?

The Permanent Resident (PR) Card is a wallet-sized identification card for individuals holding permanent residency in Canada. The PR Card serves as an official travel document, allowing Canadian permanent residents to re-enter Canada by commercial carrier (plane, bus, train, or boat). It is an essential document for international travel, as it verifies the holder's PR status upon returning to Canada.

Who Needs a PR Card?

All Canadian permanent residents traveling outside Canada need a valid PR Card to re-enter the country via commercial transportation. If you don’t have a valid PR Card while outside Canada, you’ll need to apply for a Permanent Resident Travel Document (PRTD) to return to Canada.

Eligibility for a PR Card

You are eligible to apply for a PR Card if you:

Received permanent resident status on or after June 28, 2002
Have not yet obtained a PR Card or need to replace a lost, stolen, or expired PR Card.
Have met the residency obligations, requiring you to be physically present in Canada for at least 730 days (two years) out of the last five years.

Types of PR Card Applications

First-Time PR Card: For new permanent residents who received PR status and have not previously obtained a PR Card.
PR Card Renewal: For individuals whose PR Cards are expiring or have expired.
Replacement of Lost or Stolen PR Card: For permanent residents who have lost their PR Card or had it stolen.
Urgent Processing: Available for permanent residents who need a PR Card quickly for urgent travel reasons and can provide documentation supporting their need for expedited processing.

Application Process for a PR Card

Complete the Application Package: Gather all required forms and supporting documents, including proof of residency, identification, and photographs.
Submit the Application: Send your completed application to the designated IRCC processing center.
Processing Time: Processing times vary depending on demand, but urgent applications are typically processed faster if the need for urgency is proven.
Receive the PR Card: Once approved, your PR Card will be mailed to your address, or you may be asked to collect it from an IRCC office.

Maintaining Residency Obligations

To retain PR status, individuals must meet residency obligations, requiring physical presence in Canada for at least 730 days in the last five years. Failure to meet these obligations can lead to the loss of PR status, but exceptions are made in cases where individuals must travel outside Canada for work, accompany a Canadian citizen spouse, or under humanitarian circumstances.

LevLaw assists with all types of PR Card applications, including gathering necessary documentation, ensuring compliance with residency requirements, and preparing applications for urgent processing.

Our overview

Why Choose LevLaw?

With years of experience and a deep understanding of Canada’s immigration laws, we are the trusted choice for those seeking expert immigration support. Our firm is known for its hands-on approach, reliable legal strategies, and commitment to delivering successful results. We are proud to serve as advocates and advisors, ensuring that each client feels supported, informed, and empowered every step of the way.

Our Mission

Founded with a passion for immigration law, LevLaw is committed to providing comprehensive and client-centered legal services. We believe that everyone deserves a fair chance at success and opportunity, and our mission is to guide our clients through the immigration process with skill, empathy, and dedication.