The Importance of Keeping your Permanent Resident Card Renewed

Last week, we looked at fulfilling your PR residency obligation and I mentioned that one of the times that residency obligation will be evaluated is when applying for a new permanent resident card. Today we’ll look more in-depth at the PR Card.

Permanent Card Validity

Permanent resident cards are valid for 5 years from issuance. It is the permanent resident’s responsibility to renew their card every 5 years.

Status after PR Card Expiry

When a permanent resident card expires, the individual has not lost their permanent resident status in Canada.

Importance of Maintaining a PR Card

Permanent resident cards allow the holder to return to Canada after travelling. PR Cards may be required to apply for certain documents or identifications (such as OHIP) and they can also be used as a piece of photo ID.

Traveling with an Expired PR Card

It is not impossible to travel without a valid PR Card, but it can certainly make your trip more complicated and costly. Those who are traveling with an expired PR Card will need to apply for permanent resident travel document (PRTD). The PRTD grants the holder one entry to Canada via plane, boat, train or bus.

COVID Considerations

If you are traveling during COVID without a valid PR Card, obtaining a permanent resident travel document may be particularly difficult as embassies, consulates and VACs are functioning at lesser capacities. Please reach out if you find yourself in this situation.

Difficulty Renewing Permanent Resident Card

For many, the process to renew a permanent resident card is straightforward; however, that is not the case for everyone. There are some cases where individuals fear they may not qualify for a new PR Card and renounce their status or postpone applying (preventing them from traveling and seeing family). We’ve helped clients with complicated cases to obtain their new PR Card and we’ll gladly assess your situation.