Permanent residents may need to renew or replace a PR card while in Canada or obtain a Permanent Resident Travel Document (PRTD) when outside Canada without a valid PR card. The expiry of a PR card does not itself end permanent resident status.
At a glance
- PR card renewal and replacement
- Permanent Resident Travel Documents
- Residency obligation evidence
- Urgent travel considerations
PR card versus PR status
A PR card is evidence used for travel and identification; it is not the source of permanent resident status. A person can remain a permanent resident even when the card expires.
Residency obligation
PR card and PRTD applications may require evidence showing that the permanent resident meets the residency obligation or qualifies to count specific time outside Canada.
Location matters
PR cards are issued to permanent residents in Canada. A permanent resident outside Canada without a valid card generally needs a PRTD to return by commercial transport.
Complex absence histories
Long absences, accompanying a Canadian family member, employment outside Canada or humanitarian circumstances can make the residency analysis more complex.
Official government resources
Use these official sources for the current program rules, forms and government instructions.
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