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Permanent Resident Card
Toll Free: 1-866-760-2623
A permanent resident of Canada who wishes to travel requires a PR card. The card also provides proof of your permanent residency in Canada. We at Immigroup offer you three easy ways to apply for a Canadian permanent residence card.

DOWNLOAD PR CARD PDF FORMS
Download Permanent Resident Card Application and choose the options below
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Walk In Services   Do it from home
Come in person to our Toronto office and we will do it all for you. .   Order your kit through our website or give us a call and we will email your package to you.
  • Please call to make an appointment; we have appointments available between 10.00 am and 4.00 pm, Monday through Friday
  • The application for permanent resident card (IMM 5444) will be filled out for you.
  • PR Card photos can be taken at our office.
  • We will make copies of all documentation for your records.
  • We will track your PR Card application.
  • We will notify you when your PR Card for Canada is ready.
Please bring your passport, IMM 1000 , your PR card, another photo ID (driver’s license , provincial photo ID card, or university / college ID card) and one of the following:
  1. Notice of Assessment  
  2. Record of Movement
  3. University transcript (if applicable)
  4. School records (children only)
 
  • Order on-line or call us and receive your Canadian PR Card kit by email.
  • Complete your permanent residence card application (including the IMM 5455) by reading the guide or call our office for support or questions Before sending us your completed permanent residency card application by courier, quickly fax it to us for a fast review.
  • Once we have received your application we will go through all your things and prepare your kit for filing with the government.
  • You can call us for a status update any time. We will let you know what stage your PR Card application is. (On urgent filing please call us in 10 business days) Click here to read more about urgent filing or the other many issues with which we can help.
  • We will call you when your PR Card is ready for pick up at your local PR Card pick up centre.

     
Application Review With Filing On Regular Basis   Application Review With Filing A Request for your Urgent PR Card
First time applicant or renewal of permanent resident card (4-6 months):

Order your service online and receive your PR (Permanent Resident) Card package. We offer advice and full support with respect to preparing and submitting your PR Card application.

Service Fees $249.00 +
HST $32.37
Government Fee $50
Total CDN $331.37



Note:
  1. If you became a Permanent Resident prior to 1978 processing time may be longer.
  2. This service does not include a request for significant amendments to your PR Card. Please contact us for details.
  First time applicants or renewal of permanent residence cards: (submission with in approx. 2-4 weeks)

Order your service online and receive your Permanent Resident Card package. We offer advice and full support with respect to preparing and submitting your PR Card application.

Service Fees $325.00 +
HST $42.25
Government Fee $50
Courier fees $26.00
Total CDN $443.25



Our company assists clients who need to obtain their PR Cards on an urgent basis. In order for a government official to recognize the urgency of your case, the reasons must be compelling and therefore if you need to travel right away, it is recommended that you speak to one of Immigroup’s representatives with respect to the urgency of your case.

Finally, a certified immigration consultant from our company will be your representative from beginning to end and will deal with the government on your behalf.

Note:
  1. If you became a Permanent Resident prior to 1978 processing time may be longer.
  2. This service does not include a request for significant amendments to your PR Card. Please contact us for details.
Quick Index:
Walk in service
Do it from home
Regular Filing
Urgent Filing
Status in Jeopardy
FAQs
What is a Permanent Resident?
Filling out the Permanent Resident Card Application Form
Timeline for a Permanent Resident Card
History of the Permanent Resident Card


How to Fill out a PR Card Application


Get a Canadian PR Card


Canadian PR Card


Eligible to apply for a Canadian PR Card


Apply for a Canadian PR Card


Process a PR Card Application


Canadian PR Card Cost


Residency Obligation for a Canadian PR Card Application


Canadian PR Card cause Problems


New PR Card If I have lost or Damaged my original


Primary and Secondary ID for a Canadian PR Card Application


Urgent Canadian PR Card Application


Canadian Record of Landing Or IMM1000 form

 

Status in Jeopardy

Permanent Residency that is in jeopardy is a serious matter, requiring a significant amount of work. If you do not solve your Permanent Residence issue, you could lose your status in Canada. Prices reflect the severity of the problem and the work load required to solve it.

* Please Note: If your permanent resident status in Canada is in jeopardy there will be a $75 consultation and assessment fee to answer any questions in this matter. The appointment will take approximately 10 – 30 minutes, booked at your convenience. Fees will be credited towards any future service you retain us for.

Order your service online and receive your Permanent Resident Card for Canada package. We offer advice and full support with respect to preparing and submitting your PR Card application.

Service Fees $550.00 +
HST $71.50
Government Fee $50
Courier fees $26.00
Total CDN $697.50



Note:
  1. If you became a Permanent Resident prior to 1978 processing time may be longer.
  2. This service does not include a request for significant amendments to your PR Card. Please contact us for details.
What are the issues we can help you with?
  • Request for urgent processing of your PR Card.
  • Name change or date of birth issues.
  • Lack of sufficient documents to apply for a Card.
  • Your Embassy or Consulate will not provide your passport before you obtain your Permanent Residence Card in Canada first.
  • Your application has been returned to you by the processing centre.
  • You need to check the status of your Permanent Resident Card application.
  • You have already submitted your application to Citizenship and Immigration Canada but you urgently need to go on a trip and need your application expedited  .
To be eligible for a PR Card, you must:
  • Be a permanent resident of Canada be physically present in Canada.
  • Not be under an effective removal order.
  • Not be a Canadian citizen or a registered Indian under the Indian Act.
FAQs

If you don’t see your PR Card question in the FAQs, ask us! We will respond to any question within one business day.

Your email address:  
Type your question below:



What is the Permanent Resident Card?

The Permanent Resident Card (PR Card) is a required document for permanent residents, including children, who travel abroad and then return to Canada by any commercial carrier (i.e. a plane, train, boat or bus). When you are returning to Canada you will be asked to present the Permanent Residence Card before you board the carrier that will take you back to Canada. Also, you will need to show your PR Card to the Border Services Officer at the Canadian port of entry to prove your permanent residency status. It is therefore imperative to have your PR Card in hand prior to leaving Canada.

Click here if you want to read more about the history of the PR Card.

If you are outside Canada and you do not have a valid Permanent Resident Card to return to Canada, you will need to obtain a travel document  from a Canadian visa office. Immigroup provides assistance in obtaining a travel document  for our clients.

The PR Card is not a permanent card in Canada, so you must renew your Permanent Resident Card every five years provided you meet the requirements to retain your permanent Canadian residence status.

Who is eligible for a PR card?

In order to be eligible for permanent residence cards, people must be:
  • Permanent residents of Canada.
  • Physically present in Canada.
  • Not subject to a removal orders.
  • Not Canadian citizens or registered Indians under the Indian Act.
Who is a Permanent Resident?

A permanent resident is a foreign national who has immigrated to Canada and plans to live there permanently. To keep Canadian resident status permanently, a permanent resident must live in Canada for at least two years in a five-year period. For more information on permanent residency, please see What is a Permanent Resident?

How to be a Permanent Resident in Canada?

In order to become a permanent resident, you must first immigrate to Canada through either the federal  or provincial immigration  programs. If you are allowed to immigrate to Canada, you are on your way to becoming a permanent resident. Once you are in Canada, you will be given your permanent resident card. If you are here on a temporary resident visa or permit you are not a permanent resident. If you are living in Canada temporarily but wish to become a permanent resident, you must meet certain requirements. Once these are met, then you must apply for permanent residence. Becoming a permanent resident is only one step in the immigration process. To apply to be a permanent resident you must either be allowed to immigrate to Canada through federal or provincial immigration programs or you must be allowed through government refugee sponsorship  or private refugee sponsorship . When applying for permanent residence you should make sure you are eligible under one of these programs. Please see How to Apply for Permanent Residency in Canada .

In Canada, to keep your permanent residency status it is not necessary to fill out an application for a pr card. It is only necessary to fill out an application for the PR Card if you plan on traveling outside of Canada. You do not have to renew your permanent residence status; you just have to renew your card.

How do I get a Permanent Resident Card?

To get a permanent resident card, you should go onto CIC’s website  and read the guide (IMM 5445 ). Then you should complete the application forms and pay your fees (making sure you get your fee receipt and submit it with your application). Your application needs to be mailed to the Case Processing Centre in Sydney, Nova Scotia.

If you want to use Immigroup to file your PR Card application, download the forms  and submit them to our office by fax (416-640-2650), email, mail, courier, or in person . If you are using a service like Immigroup’s, you will need to complete a "Use of Representative" (IMM 5476 ), included in our package.

Where do I mail my Permanent Resident Card (PR Card)?

This depends on how you are sending your application.


If you are sending it by regular mail, you should  send it to the Case Processing Centre at :

P.O. Box 10020
Sydney, NS
B1P 7C1


However, if you are sending it by courier, you must send your application to:


210 George Street
Sydney, NS
B1P 1J3

View Larger Map


What shall I do if I am outside Canada and I have no valid PR Card?

If you are outside Canada and you do not have a valid Permanent Resident Card to return to Canada you will need to obtain a travel document  from a Canadian visa office. Immigroup provides assistance in obtaining a travel document  for our clients.

What is the cost for a Canada Permanent Resident Card?

The cost of a PR Card is $50 CDN. The cost of the PR card through Immigroup depends on the processing time. For a regular filing that takes about 4-6 months, Immigroup charges”$225 + $50 government fee. For urgent filings (3-8 weeks) we charge $325 + 50$ government fee. The fees are greater for more serious problems.

How do I pay the Parmanent Resident Card fee?

All CIC fees must be paid in Canadian dollars. You can pay the $50 fee in one of two ways:
  • Online  with
    • A Visa, Mastercard or American Express credit card
    • A printer and
    • An email address
  • In person at a Canadian financial institution. In order to do so you must get a fee receipt (IMM 5401 ) first
How long does it take to get a PR Card?

You should get your PR card within a month of moving to Canada, as long as you have provided an address. Sometimes it can take slightly longer than that. It can a very long time to get a replacement or renewal PR card. Applications with no proof of urgency take at least 4-6 months. Please see Timeline for Permanent Resident Card .

What are the PR Card photo requirements?

The PR card photo should measure 35 mm x 45 mm (1 3/8″ x 1 3/4″) . The photos can be either back and white or color. Photos must have been taken within the last 12 months to ensure an up-to-date likeness. Your face must be facing the camera directly, with a neutral expression. The back of the photo should bear the date the photo was taken. You should take the photo specifications from Appendix B with you to the photographer.

How to obtain a PR Card in Toronto?

All PR card applications (IMM 5444s ) are submitted by mail to the Citizenship and Immigration Canada  (CIC) office in Sydney, Nova Scotia. If you would like us to help you with your PR card application, you can visit our Toronto Office:

Address:

1180 Danforth Ave,
Toronto, Ontario
M4J 1M3

Tel: 416-962-2623
Toll Free: 1-866-760-2623
Fax: 416-640-2650

View Larger Map

Or, alternatively, Download the PR card Kit and fax (416-640-2650), mail or courier it to the above address.


How do I keep my Parmanent Resident status?

Your permanent resident status allows you to live in Canada, and travel freely outside of the country, but there is also a time limit on how much time you can spend outside of Canada. To keep your status as a permanent resident in Canada, you must live in Canada for at least two years within any given five-year period. If your status as a permanent resident in Canada is questionable because of the number of days you have been abroad, it could be risky to complete the PR Card application; better to remain within Canada until you are less at risk of losing your status.

What if my Permanent Resident Card is lost, destroyed, stolen?

If this happens you should immediately call Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) . If you had it stolen or lost it, we also advise that you call the police to prevent identity theft. Immigroup can help replace a lost, damaged or stolen PR Card.

What if I have applied for my Permanent Resident Card but never received it?

If it has been longer than the average wait time , you should contact CIC immediately. If you haven’t waited the full length of time (usually 4-8 months) you should wait and see. But once the standard wait time has passed you should contact CIC immediately if you still haven’t received your pickup notice.

Do I have to have a Permanent Resident Card?

It is mandatory for all Canadian Permanent Residents to present a valid PR Card to flight, bus, boat, or train personnel before boarding any flight, bus, boat or train returning to Canada. A valid PR Card must be presented to an immigration officer when you enter Canada at any port of entry. If you are a permanent resident living in Canada and intending to travel outside of the country for any length of time, you need a permanent resident card.

Do my children need one?

Yes, if they are traveling outside of Canada. All Canadian Permanent Residents, including children, must show a valid PR Card in order to re-enter Canada. Children of a Canadian Permanent Resident who were born in Canada are Canadian Citizens and only need a valid Canadian Passport  for re-entry to Canada.

The name that appears on my Canadian Permanent Resident Card is not complete

There is only space for 20 letters for a last name and 15 letters for first and middle names on a PR Card. If your name is longer than this it will be incomplete on your PR Card. But it is completely acceptable and will not present a problem, even if the name that appears on you SIN card is complete, and therefore different from the name that appears on your PR Card.

If, however, your name – or the first 15 or 20 letters of your name – is spelled incorrectly, you should contact CIC immediately. Immigroup helps people fix these spelling mistakes regularly and we can be reached at 1-866-760-2623. We will arrange for a replacement card to be sent with your name spelled properly. If there is a problem with your Record of Landing  you should contact CIC ASAP. Immigroup also helps people with spelling errors on Records of Landing and we would be glad to help, just call 1-866-760-2623.

Do I need my PR Card if I’m returning to Canada by car?

No. The PR Card is only required for a return to Canada by commercial carrier, such as a boat, bus, train or airplane. We do advise, however, that you have it with you whenever you travel as you may avoid hassle and delays at the border if you carry it with you when you travel to the US by car.

I hold a Record of Landing (IMM 1000 ); do I still need a Canadian Permanent Resident Card?

Yes, if you plan to travel outside of Canada. As of December 30, 2003 the IMM 1000 is no longer considered a valid document for return to Canada. This includes certified copies of IMM 1000 forms, IMM 1000 forms stamped “Not valid for travel” and “Confirmation of Permanent Residence ”, or IMM 5292, forms. These documents will continue to be valid while you are outside of Canada, however in order to return to Canada you will need a PR Card or a Temporary Travel Document.

What do I do if I’m outside Canada and I don’t have my card?

Canadian Permanent residents who are outside of Canada and wish to return, but do not have a PR Card, should apply for a temporary Travel Document . The application must be downloaded and submitted to the applicable Canadian visa office. Immigroup can help with this process.

In section B of the PR Card Application it asks for a work history for the last five years – I haven’t been in Canada for that long, do I have to give a work history prior to immigrating?

No, you are only required to provide a work history for the years that you have been a Canadian Permanent Resident.

Will I ever need a Canadian Permanent Resident Card inside Canada?

It is possible that certain Canadian agencies will ask to see your PR Card to verify whether or not you are eligible for certain programs and services so it is a good idea to have a PR card even if you don’t intend to travel outside of the country as this can simplify many applications.

For new immigrants is the cost of a PR Card included in the overall fee for an application for permanent residence?

Yes. However, if you are already a landed immigrant in Canada and do not have a PR Card, the government fee to obtain one is $50 per applicant. if you use Immigroup to process and submit your application, or to advise you on your status, there will be additional charges, displayed above.

What if I change my name?

If you change your name you should change your name on all your identity documents. To change the name on your PR Card, you must include a notarized copy of the change of name (divorce certificate , marriage certificate , recognition of legal change of name ) and you must include your Record of Landing .

There is a typo on my landing paper (example: Birth date, first or last name)

If you wish to correct this mistake, the process can be very simple or extremely complicated. How easy it will be to amend it will depend on what has to be changed and what caused the mistake to happen. Please contact CIC  as soon as you can. If you would like assistance with this, please contact us at 1-866-760-2623.

I have a criminal record can I apply for a PR Card?

If you have a criminal record, this does not affect the PR Card, but it could cause problems if you decide to travel, especially to the United States. Also, a criminal record may affect your Canadian citizenship application whenever you choose to apply. If you have concerns about becoming a Canadian Citizen because of a criminal record you should contact Canadian Citizenship and Immigration  or you can call us for a consultation at 1-866-760-263.

I am traveling; How can I get my Permanent Resident Card (PR Card) fast?

CIC will process applications on an expedited basis , if you have proof of travel, such as a plane ticket or an itinerary. You must include this proof with your application. Immigroup can help you apply for expedited processing

My application was sent back what do I do now?

The government should have sent you a cover sheet explaining the problem(s) with your application. Carefully read this cover sheet and follow all instructions included (remember this is only a standard letter) and adjust your application to meet requirements. It a good idea to courier your new application package to CIC (210 George Street, Sydney, NS B1P 1J3 ) in order to get the application processed as quickly as possible. Remember to obtain a tracking number. You should not use Canada Post’s registered mail as it will take too long. Call CIC 5-10  business days after your package has arrived in order to make sure it can be processed.

Can a family member pick up the PR Card on my behalf?

If you have just immigrated to Canada you will receive your PR Card at the address you provided at your time of entry. If you have filed a permanent resident card renewal or replacement application before April, 2012, you will likely have to pickup the card in person. If you did receive a pickup notice, a family member cannot pick up the PR Card even with a letter from you giving them permission to do so. If for some reason you are incapable of picking up your new card in person, you must contact CIC at least one business day before you are supposed to pick up your new card so that something else can be arranged. You should be able to demonstrate to CIC that you cannot pick up the card in person. Note: Even though CIC is now mailing PR cards directly to the applicant’s address, CIC can still request that you pickup your PR card from them for any reason.

I lost my pick up notice how can I get a new on?

You can go to CIC’s website  and get your electronic pick up notice there or give them a call at 1-888-242-2100. If you remember where to go and the date you need to be there, you can still pick up your card without the notice provided you bring with you your Passport, landing paper (IMM 1000 ) and one photo ID; this should be enough for the officer to find you in their system.

What do I take with me at the time of pick up?

In addition to your pickup notice you received from CIC, you must bring with you your Passport, your landing paper (IMM 1000 ), and one other photo ID (such as a driver’s license or provincial photo card). If you do not bring this identification, you may not be able to get your PR card.

How do I check the status on my PR Card?

Please visit https://services3.cic.gc.ca/ecas/?app=ecas&lang=en where you can check the status of your application. You should have at least one of the following with you when you check your status Without at least one of these, you will not be able to check your status. If you are missing the required documentation and / or you would like assistance with this process please contact us at Immigroup at -866-760-263

I called the government a few times and I am told different things on the same question, what should I believe?

It’s most reassuring to get the same question answered the same way twice from a government officer. To do this you may need to call a few times. If this does not work, speak to an immigration consultant, such as the ICCRC-certified consultant at Immigroup, in order to help clarify the situation.

Can I send all my family’s PR Applications at one time?

Yes, but you should be sure to put each application in a separate envelope. Unfortunately, sending all your family’s applications together does not mean that each application will be ready at the same time.

I lost my PR Card what should I do?

Although you are under no obligation to do so, it is a good idea to report a lost PR Card to the police. To replace your PR Card you need to file a PR Card application as if you were getting one for the first time.

I just came to Canada, when would I get my PR Card?

About 30 business days after you arrive, the government will send it to the address you have given them, and so if you are not living there you will need to check that mailbox. Sometimes the pictures that were sent to CIC will be incorrect. You will be notified and asked to go to a local CIC office to have your pictures re-done. This will cause a delay in the delivery of your PR Card so if you have had your pictures re-taken do not expect the PR card within 30 business days of your arrival.

My PR Card is expiring, what now?

You will need to apply for a new PR Card, which you can do by visiting Citizenship and Immigration’s website . You can also use our services  .

Is a Permanent Resident Card a Green Card?

In the United States, Permanent Resident Cards are known as Green Cards because they are sometimes green. Green Card can also refer to the process of becoming a permanent resident in the US. There is no Green Card in Canada. Here, Permanent Residence Cards used to be known as Maple Leaf Cards because of the leaf on the card, but most people in Canada call a Permanent Residency card a PR card instead of a Maple Card. A Canadian Green Card is a Permanent Resident Card.

I got my Permanent Residency status in Canada before 2000 but I heard that the PR Card has changed in the meantime. What do I need to do?

If you became a permanent resident before Jun 28, 2002, and you wish to travel outside of Canada, you need to apply for a PR Card as your Record of Landing (IMM 1000 ) can no longer be used as a travel document.

How do I do renew my Permanent Resident Card?

To renew your permanent residence card you must apply as if it was your first permanent residency card. In Canada, there is no difference between permanent resident card renewal and permanent resident cards for permanent residents who only ever had their Record of Landing (IMM1000). To renew your PR you must complete the IMM 5444  application and the supplementary forms and submit them to Citizenship and Immigration Canada. Renewing your PR Card can also be done through Immigroup .

Is PR Card renewal Permanent Residency renewal?

Renewing a permanent residence card is not renewing your permanent resident status. However, the renewal of your permanent resident card in Canada can create problems for you if you do not have enough days in Canada when you apply for the new card. If you have not spent the required two out of any five years in Canada while you have permanent resident status you could be in danger of having that status revoked.

What is the supplementary form or IMM 5455 and where can I get it?

You can download the supplementary form from CIC’s website  or from Immigroup.

I thought you could not get the IMM 5455 online, only by mail or courier.

That was true until January 2012. Before then, you had to contact CIC and they would mail you a copy of the IMM 5455 in a couple of weeks. As of January 2012, you can now download the IMM 5455  from CIC’s website or as part of the application for a permanent resident card above .

Can you renew your PR Card from outside of Canada?

No, you cannot renew your PR card from outside of Canada. In order to maintain permanent residency status in Canada you must spend two years out of any five year period living in Canada. CIC makes PR card applicants renew from inside the country to help ensure applicants really are permanent residents. As of April, 2012, CIC is now mailing PR cards directly to applicants, but they will only be shipped to addresses within Canada.

How many days outside of Canada are too many?

In order to meet the permanent residence requirements, you must spend at least two years in five to remain a permanent resident. This means you must spend 730 days out of 1825 days in the country. So the most you can spend outside of the country is 1095. Any permanent resident who has spent more than 1095 days outside of Canada during a five year period will lose their status. However, this is the absolute maximum number of days you could conceivably be outside of the country. We strongly recommend that you ensure that you spend far less than 1095 days outside of the country. Permanent residence status can be revoked at the discretion of CIC and so you could lose your status even though you have spent less than 1095 days outside of Canada within the five year period, if CIC thinks that you are fulfilling the requirements of permanent residency status in Canada. We recommend that you spend as much time in Canada as possible and, if you are from certain countries, you should limit your time outside of Canada to half as many days as the maximum (about 500) to be safe. To find out whether you are in danger of losing your status next time you renew your PR card you can contact us  for a consultation.

What is the processing time for a Permanent Resident Card?

The processing time for the initial PR Card granted you when you enter Canada is supposed to be around a month, though as of February 2012 it was seven weeks.It is around 4-6 months for renewals / replacements, unless you have chosen urgent processing and provided proof of urgency, you may be able to get your Permanent Residence Card within three-four weeks.

Is a Permanent Resident Card a permanent visa to Canada?

Visas are documents countries issue to travelers, students and workers to enter their borders on a temporary basis. Visas are not normally permanent, though they can sometimes allow the holder to apply for a more permanent type of status. Permanent Residency Cards are for those who have already immigrated to Canada and therefore no longer require visas. However, permanent residence is not citizenship and so a permanent resident is technically a visa holder even if he or she is not possession of something called a “permanent visa.”

If I am a Permanent Resident, does that make me a permanent citizen too?

Permanent residents are not citizens. In order to become a citizen of Canada you must either have been born there, been born to a Canadian abroad (and exercised your rights to Canadian citizenship before you 27th birthday) or have been naturalized. In order to be naturalized, you must first be a permanent resident and then you must apply for Canadian citizenship .

What do I do if I can’t find a guarantor for my PR Card application?

As of 2008, you no longer need a guarantor to apply for a permanent residence card.

I have applied for my Permanent Resident Card but I need to travel before it will be ready. Can I travel without it?

It is recommended that you wait until you have received your PR Card before leaving Canada. However, if circumstances do not allow you to wait, you can apply for a Permanent Resident Abroad Travel Document . This Application can be done through our office. You will need this document in order to board a commercial carrier to return to Canada.

If, however, you hold a passport from a visitor-visa-exempt country  most carriers will allow you to travel. Upon returning to Canada you will be required to show proof of your Canadian Permanent Residence.

For those who are not nationals of visitor-visa-exempt countries, you may be able to re-enter Canada if you provide proof of your application and your application date. This is a risky process which could involve some degree of hassle at the port of entry and so we do not recommend attempting it without first discussing it with an immigration consultant.

I have Record of Landing but I haven’t got my PR Card yet. Have I lost my status?

No. Your permanent residency status in Canada hasn’t changed, but you should get a permanent resident card if you have any intentions of traveling or merely to prove your status. You will need your original Record of Landing (IMM 1000)  to apply and you should keep your IMM 1000 in a safe place even after you have received your PR Card.

How long do I have to stay here to remain a Permanent Resident?

You must live in Canada for a minimum of 2 years in any 5 year period. If you have not spent enough time in Canada, and leave the country, you may not be admitted when you attempt to return.

What happens if I return home to my own country and my Permanent Resident Card expires while I am outside I am there?

You should contact the nearest Canadian visa office .They should issue you a special Travel Document, intended specifically for permanent residents in your position, which will let you to return to Canada (provided, of course, that you continue to meet the requirements to maintain permanent residency status). You will have a lot of trouble entering if you do not have this document. Once you are back in Canada, you should replace your PR Card as soon as you can to prevent this from happening in the future.

I have applied for Citizenship and my application is being processed. What should I do with my permanent resident card once I become a Canadian citizen?

When you are granted Canadian citizenship, your PR Card will be cancelled and so will be invalid. As part of the process of becoming a Canadian citizen, you should be required to turn your card over to authorities so it can be destroyed. If for some reason this does not happen, you should destroy it yourself (ensuring that it cannot be used by anyone attempting to steal your identity) as it is unlawful to have duplicate photo IDs (in this case, a PR Card claiming you are a permanent resident and a citizenship card claiming you are a citizen).

Do I need to show my Permanent Resident Card when I return from the US?

No, you do not have to, but it is a good idea. You must prove to Canadian Border Services that you are a permanent resident. CIC and CBS recommend the PR Card as the best proof , though it isn’t mandatory at land crossings with the US only (all other ports of entry require you to show your PR Card). If for some reason you cannot bring your PR Card with you, CBS will accept one of the following: If you are re-entering Canada with one of these documents instead of your PR Card, you will likely be subject to an interview, so it is best to bring your PR Card with you or, if you don’t already have one, you should get one before you travel to the US.

I need to replace my PR Card ASAP. Can I do this immediate?

It depends upon the reasons you need the new PR Card. If you need this new card because your old one is expiring, you will have to apply the usual way. If you need it as a piece of ID for some kind of application process, you will also have to apply the usual way. The only reason CIC  accepts for urgent processing is if you have already made travel plans. In this case, you must submit proof of your impending travel with your application. Proof can be a plane ticket, an itinerary purchased from a travel agent, or something similar.

Do I need to submit anything else with the application form?

You need to include the following documentation with your application. If you do not your application may be delayed or rejected.
  • A good copy of the ID page in your valid passport OR a good copy of the ID page and the entry stamp in your passport at the time of your landing in Canada
  • A good copy of your Record of Landing (IMM 1000) OR your Confirmation of Permanent Residence
  • Two PR Card photos taken in accordance with the CIC photo specifications .
  • A good copy of your Driver’s License, your provincial photo ID, or your university / college ID
  •  Copies of all pages in all passports held over the last five years
  • A good copy of one of the following
    • Your notice of assessment from Revenue Canada  OR
    • Your Record of Movement OR
    • Your university transcript (if applicable) OR
    • Your school records (children only)
  • Your current or expired PR Card
  • Proof of urgency (if applicable)
  •  If you have changed your name (or the spelling of your name) since your last PR card, you must include a Marriage Certificate or Legal Name Change
Please Note: All documents which are not in English or French must be translated into either English or French
Please Note: The only original document you need is your current or expired PR Card. All other documents can be photocopied, provided the copies are legible.

Does my Permanent Resident Card expire?

Yes it does. A PR Card has an expiry date which is five years after it was issued. However, this does not mean your permanent residence in Canada is terminated when the card itself expires. As long as you have not violated any of Canada’s laws and you have met the residency requirement of remaining in Canada for 730 days in a five year period, you can renew you PR card.

Do I need a Permanent Resident Card if I have my Record of Landing (IMM 1000)?

No, you do not need a PR Card in addition to your record of landing if you intend on never leaving Canada while a permanent resident. If you would like to travel, though, you will need a PR Card in order to re-enter the country.

I am a Canadian Permanent Resident with a PR card. However, I only have a Certificate of Identity (Brown Book), not a passport. Do I need a visa to visit the EU?

You should not need a visa to enter the EU for a period of less than 90 days provided you are not from a Schengen area country. One of the requirements of carrying a Canadian Certificate of Identity is that you cannot return to your country of citizenship, which failed to give you a passport.

I am a Permanent Resident. Can I get a FAST Card?

Yes, you can get a FAST Card, provided you meet other eligibility requirements. Please see http://immigroup.com/FASTCardFaqs.aspx  for details.

I am a Permanent Resident in Canada for only one year but my child was born in Canada. Does my kid get Canadian citizenship? Can I become a Canadian Citizen too?

Your child is a Canadian Citizen as anyone born in Canada is a Canadian. If you registered your child’s birth and received a birth certificate you do not need to do anything else for your child at the moment, though it is important to make sure you get them a Social Insurance Number (SIN) before they are old enough to work. To apply for your own Canadian Citizenship, your permanent resident status must not be in jeopardy and you must wait till you have lived here three out of four years before you can apply.

Hello I am applying for my Permanent Resident Card from as a Convention refugee. My passport expired last year and I haven’t been able to renew it because I am a refugee. Can I still get my PR Card?

Yes you can, but you need to provide your expired passport as part of the application process.

What do I do if I don’t have enough IDs with pictures on them?

You need is your passport, your driver’s license, your current / expired PR card, your Record of Landing , other current passports (if applicable), and your Notice of Assessment or your Record of Movement. But if you don’t have these, proof of your identity can be established using other identification. First, all Canadian provinces and territories have provincial / territorial photo ID cards now, which you can use as your ID in case you do not drive. As of April 2012, CIC is also accepting Canadian university or college student ID cards, if you are a student, as well. If you don’t have your Notice of Assessment or your Record of Movement, you can supply a university transcript, provided you are a student. In place of your child’s Notice of Assessment or Record of Movement, you can submit their school records.

How many pictures do I need and what are the requirements?

You need two identical photos taken and certified by a professional photographer. The photos must clearly show your full facial features, with a plain white background, and they must have been taken within the last 12 months. The size of your head must be made to measure between 25 mm and 30 mm from chin to crown; the size of the entire photo must have the measurements of 35 mm x 45 mm. They must be on photographic paper that has a backing which accepts and retains the date. Photos without this backing are not acceptable.

How long do I have to pick up my card once it has been issued?

Your card will stay in the local CIC office for 6 months. If you fail to pick the card up in this time frame you will have to begin the process from the beginning. As of April 2012, CIC is now mailing PR Cards to applicants; if you have submitted your application after this time, you may not have to pick it up in person.

I have more than 1095 days outside of Canada in the last five years, what should I do?

Do not leave Canada again until you are safely well under the maximum. Depending upon where you are from, it may be advisable to wait a year or more before you renew your PR Card.

I want to apply for my PR card and I am outside of the country but I have not met the days requirement.

Your status is in Jeopardy. You must prove when you are outside of Canada you were either with a Canadian Citizen spouse or you were working for a Canadian company. You must show evidence of this in order to retain your status, for example:
  • Photographs of you and your Canadian spouse.
  • Bills that show both your name and your spouse’s name.

  • Or, if you are working abroad, bills with the Canadian companies name.
  • Any other evidence you can provide to show you were outside of Canada with your Canadian spouse or in the employ of a Canadian firm.
If you cannot prove this, you will likely lose your Canadian permanent residency status and be unable to re-enter Canada for the foreseeable future. If you would like a consultation please contact us at 1-866-760-2623. If you lose your status but need to re-enter Canada for some reason, Immigroup may be able to help you get a temporary resident permit  or authorization to return to Canada.

I landed in Canada before 1973 and I have never got around to applying for a PR Card, what should I do?

You can apply for a PR Card like any other permanent resident. However, you should know that your application will take longer as it will involve a search of paper archives and records that could significantly lengthen the process. If you intend to travel outside of Canada any time soon, you should apply immediately.

Are there any exceptions to the 1095 day rule?

There are very specific exceptions to this rule, but they do not apply to most permanent residents. If you spend more than 1095 days outside of the country in the employment of a Canadian-owned business, your status will be maintained. However, you and your employer must prove to Canada Border Services  and CIC  that you were on business. Proof includes receipts, tickets, contracts and the like. We cannot stress enough that you should check with CIC before working long-term outside of Canada as a permanent resident in order to make sure you do not lose your status.

What nationalities are at risk of losing a PR card when outside of the country for close to but not over 1095 days?

Though CIC does not officially identify any groups of people as more at risk of losing their status than others, and though the official policy is that a permanent resident must spend 730 days in Canada within 5 years, many people have lost their PR status for spending far less than 1095 days outside of Canada within 5 years. Nationals from countries with a poor track record of meeting permanent residency requirements are unfortunately more likely to be at risk. There is no definitive list of which nationalities have been targeted, and the best thing to do as a permanent resident is to spend far more than 730 days within Canada during any five year period, regardless of nationality.

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What is a Permanent Resident?

In any country there are citizens and there are foreign nationals who are not citizens. In order for these foreign nationals to enter this country, they require special permission, a visa (in some cases the visa may be waived, such as Canadians entering the US and vice versa). Most countries have many types of visas to accommodate the different reasons foreign nationals may have to visit. Some countries allow foreign nationals to reside within their borders permanently, either for the purposes of becoming a citizen in the future or for some other reason, such as commerce. Only about one quarter of the countries in the world have some kind of official permanent resident designation, so in other countries you must either be a citizen or on a temporary visa. Permanent resident status – and its requirements – differs amongst these 50 or so countries. Some common restrictions to permanent residence status include
  • They cannot vote - they cannot run for office
  • They cannot apply for government jobs
  • They cannot apply for any jobs involving national security clearances
  • They cannot own certain types of property
  • They must keep the passport of the country where they are a citizen and cannot get one for their country of residence
  • They are not protected by their country of residence’s diplomatic service
These are privileges usually only available to full citizens.

There are also certain obligations that permanent residents must meet in order to retain their status or to move from being a permanent resident to becoming a citizen of that country. This can include keeping a job or keeping a business, or serving in or registering for military service, or remaining in the country for a designated period of time, as in Canada . Lost of status can result from failing to comply with the obligations or restrictions for permanent residents, for because of criminal convictions.

Permanent residency is usually part of a process that leads to citizenship. Most countries allow permanent residents to apply for naturalisation after a given period of time. In some countries, though, naturalization is not merely based on duration of permanent residency but also on so-called “character” grounds. In those countries it is possible for people to remain permanent residents indefinitely, without ever becoming citizens (it is possible for most permanent residents to do this, but in many cases people become permanent residents in order to later become citizens).

In many countries Permanent Residents are required to carry proof of their status, whereas citizens may not. This proof of status can be a stamp in or attachment to the national’s home passport, but is more commonly a photo ID card. In Canada, there are two types of proof of status, the Record of Landing (IMM 1000)  and the PR Card. The Record of Landing is sufficient proof of status within Canada; however permanent residents traveling outside of Canada have required the PR Card since 2003. Permanent residents who emigrated to Canada before the PR Card  was required may still only hold their Record of Landing as proof of status within the country, as long as they do not travel overseas.

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Filling Out the Permanent Resident Card Application Form

If you are applying for a new PR Card, you must fill out form IMM 5444 . While parts of this form are straightforward, there may be areas that may cause some confusion to the applicant.

Date you became a Permanent Resident of Canada: This is the date when you first entered Canada as a permanent resident. Check your Record of Landing for this date.

Section A.5: Name Change: This applies if you have legally changed your name since you first came into the country. Examples of this can include a woman who got married and adopted her husband’s last name or of someone from another country who adopted an anglicized name. You need to provide evidence of the change to show that you are the same person.

Section C.19: Address History: You must list all your addresses where you have lived for the past 5 years or since you became a permanent resident. This includes any addresses outside of Canada. If you returned to your native country for a few months, you must list the address where you were living.

Section C.20: Educational and/or work experience: You must list all of your educational and/or work experiences since becoming a permanent resident of Canada. This includes any experiences you had even if you were outside of Canada.

Section C.21: Travelled or lived outside of Canada: If you have travelled outside of Canada or lived outside the country at any point since becoming a permanent resident, you must list all the places that are applicable.

Section D: Residency Obligation: In order to receive a new PR Card, Citizenship and Immigration must verify that you are still eligible to be a permanent resident of the country. The law stipulates that if you have been outside of Canada for 1095 days or more (3 years) in a period of five years since receiving your residency, then you have lost your PR status.

However, the law does regulate that a person who has left the country under certain conditions will not have the days that they were absent count against their residency obligation. These conditions are:
  1. If you left in the company of Canadian spouse or guardian. You will have to provide proof of that person’s citizenship (passport, birth certificate, or citizenship card) as well as proof of your relationship (marriage certificate or guardianship papers) and that you were in their company.
  2. If you were sent overseas by a Canadian business or by a Canadian federal or provincial public service. You must provide evidence of your employment overseas.
  3. If you were in the company of a Canadian spouse or guardian who was sent overseas by a Canadian business or employed by either a provincial or federal agency. You must both prove that you are related to or in the guardianship of the person and that the person was employed by a Canadian business or governmental agency abroad.
  4. If you were absent while in possession of a valid “Returning Resident Permit” (RRP). An RRP is a document that will allow you to keep your residency while you are outside of Canada. The document states that you have no intention of abandoning your residency even though you are outside Canada. You can apply for this permit at a Canadian consulate.
Section F:Solemn declaration concerning a lost, stolen, destroyed, or never received PR Card: You must only fill this part out if you lost your card, had it stolen, destroyed, or you never received the PR Card. Citizenship and Immigration will want to know what happened to the PR Card and what measures you have taken to find it.
  1. If you lost your PR Card: You should write where you normally keep your PR Card and what caused it to be lost. Also indicate the steps that you took to find the card.
  2. If your PR Card was stolen: Indicate at what time and place the theft took place. You should also notify local police of the theft and include a copy of the police report in your submission.
  3. If your PR Card was destroyed: Indicate what caused the PR Card to be destroyed and if you can still produce your card, include it in the application.
  4. If you never received your card: If you have yet to receive your PR Card, indicate when you applied for it, and (if possible) provide proof that the application was received by Citizenship and Immigration. Also indicate that you have waited the regular time to receive the card and that you have contacted Citizenship and Immigration to find out the status of your card.
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Timeline for receiving a Canadian Permanent Resident Card

A PR Card will be mailed out to all new immigrants usually within 30 business days of entry. The processing time for replacements for lost or stolen PR Cards, or PR Cards for applicants who entered Canada before June 28, 2002 is currently 137 calendar days as of February, 2012, but is subject to change at any time. For updates in processing times for Canadian Permanent Resident cards, please check the Citizenship and Immigration Canada website .

Can my application be processed faster?

In urgent cases it is sometimes possible to speed up the processing time for a PR Card. The Citizenship and Immigration Canada will evaluate the need on a per-case basis. Here’s what you can do to speed up your Canadian Permanent Resident Card application process:
  1. If you have not yet sent your application, be sure to do so as quickly as possible and include whatever proof of urgency you have (purchased plane tickets, purchased itineraries, etc.). If you would like help to ensure your application is as good as it could be and you have the required proof of urgency, contact Immigroup’s office  as quickly as possible. We will quickly send you all related Permanent Resident Card application forms or you can come to our Toronto location and have everything done on the spot.
  2. If you have sent your PR Card application without proof of urgency but need your PR card sooner than CIC processing times show it will be processed fax the following information to Immigroup at 416-640-2650: Your surname and given name, your client ID number (if you have one), your birth date, your home address, your telephone number, your e-mail address (if you have one), a copy of your plane ticket and a copy of the pages in your passport showing your name, photograph and birth date. Once this information has been received by our office, you will be contacted within the same day to let you know whether you have a chance to speed up your PR Card application process . Remember that you are sending your information to our company first. In turn, we review it to make sure it is in order. The Immigroup representative will deal with the government on your behalf. If processing of your PR Card application has not begun then you may want to apply for a temporary travel document if you must travel before you will receive your PR Card. You can get one through Citizenship and Immigration Canada  or by calling Immigroup.
Canadian Permanent Resident Card Delivery

PR Cards for new immigrants will be sent by mail  to the address given at the time of entry – if you did not give an address at that time, you should provide one as soon as possible to CIC or an immigration representative, such as Immigroup, who will deal with CIC on your behalf.

Current Canadian Permanent Residents who request a card will have to pick up their cards at the nearest Citizenship and Immigration Canada office. A notice will be sent to you when your PR Card is ready. PR Cards must be picked up within 180 days of issue or they will be cancelled and you will have to reapply.

If the Citizenship and Immigration Canada Office is too far away from me, can my Canadian Permanent Resident Card be mailed to me?

Before April 2012, existing Canadian Permanent Residents who request a PR Card were required to pick it up in person in order to confirm their identities. CIC is now mailing PR Cards to permanent residents, however this process has not been fully implement at all offices at the time of this writing, so you may receive your card in the mail or you may receive a pickup notice. If you receive a pickup notice, it cannot be mailed to you. However, if you are unable to appear at your appointment you can contact the CIC to make alternate arrangements. Within Toronto, if you miss your first appointment a second one will be automatically rescheduled for you within 90 days. A letter will be sent to you telling you the time of the new appointment. If you miss your second appointment a third one will be scheduled for you. If you do not attend the third, and final, appointment, your card will be destroyed and you will have to reapply. Outside of Toronto if you miss your first appointment you must call to reschedule yourself. If you do not reschedule your appointment a notice will be sent to you near the end of the six-month (180 day) period instructing you to reschedule. After 180 days a PR Card that has not been picked up will be destroyed.

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History of the Canadian Permanent Resident Card

The Canadian Permanent Resident Card  became the legal proof of status document required for Canadian Permanents Residents to re-enter Canada on any commercial carrier (i.e. airplanes, boats, trains or buses) on December 31, 2003. The PR Card was created as a replacement for the IMM 1000 Record of Landing Document previously issued to new permanent residents of Canada upon arrival.

The Canadian Permanent Resident card was introduced in an effort to increase Canadian border security after the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks in the United States. The US government was worried that potential terrorists could be using Canada as a means to enter the United States and wanted the Canadian government to equip their permanent residents with an ID card instead of the government-issued piece of paper they had used as proof of status previously. This standard has been applied to Canadian citizens as well as permanent residents, as Canadian citizens now must present their passport – or at land borders their enhanced driver’s license, which contains similar security features to the PR Card – to US Customs and Border Protection in order to enter . The Canadian government complied in order to ease travel between the two countries and to assist the US with its security concerns. It is now easier for both the US CBP and Canadian Border Services Agency to determine who travelers are – and whether or not they could pose a risk – regardless of citizenship.

In addition of being a photo ID card instead of a piece of paper, the PR Card has many security features and is designed to provide Permanent Residents of Canada with a more secure, convenient means of proving their status. The PR Card is designed to protect the privacy of the cardholder as well as being more difficult to tamper and duplicate illegally. Security features include:
  • Only non-secure personal information is printed on the card. Personal information that was previously included on the IMM 1000 Record of Landing document, or the Confirmation of Permanent Residence document, is encoded on the card and available only to authorized officials with the appropriate equipment.
  • The photograph and signature of the PR Card’s holder is laser engraved in the card.
  • Security features aimed at preventing duplication and tampering include ultra-violet images, tactile lettering and micro-text printing.
Canadian Permanent Residents who do not have a PR Card, are outside of Canada and wish to return via commercial carrier must contact there nearest Canadian visa office to apply for a limited use travel document.

   
 
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