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Do I really need a PR card to travel back to Canada?

If you are a permanent resident, you need to prove that you have valid permanent resident status when you return to Canada.

Your Permanent Resident (PR) card is the best proof of your status at a border.

According to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), no matter how you travel back to Canada, you must prove to the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) officer that you have valid permanent resident status. This applies to all family members who are permanent residents, including children.

You require a valid PR card or a valid Permanent Resident Travel Document (PRTD) to re-enter Canada by commercial carrier (train, plane, boat or bus). You will not be permitted to board a commercial carrier, if you cannot prove you can enter Canada.

If you are entering Canada in a private vehicle, such as your own car, and you cannot present your PR card, you may be able to show other immigration documents (see answer to "If you return in a private vehicle, like your own car").

If you have applied for a new PR card, you can still travel with the old card as long as it is still valid.

If your PR card expires while you are outside Canada, you need to apply for a permanent resident travel document from a Canadian visa office abroad.

Find more information about renewing a PR card.

If You do not Have a PR card

If you are a permanent resident but do not have a PR card, you may be able to apply for a travel document. You can find more information in I need to leave Canada but I do not have my PR card yet. What should I do?

What about Canadian Citizens?

If you are a Canadian citizen, you do not need a PR card. You need a Canadian passport for international travel.

If you are in Canada, you can call the IRCC Call Centre for more information about your situation at 1-888-242-2100.

You can also get assistance from a settlement agency. To find a settlement agency in your area, go to Services Near Me.

For More Information

Permanent Resident Card Guide and Application Form - This application is for permanent residents who are applying for an initial, renewal or replacement Permanent Resident Card (PR Card).
Travel Document (Permanent Resident Abroad) Guide and Application form - This application is for permanent residents outside of Canada who need proof of their status so they can return to Canada.
Rights and Responsibilities for Permanent Residents - Find out what you need to know about living in Canada as a permanent resident.
IRCC Help Centre - A tool that helps answer frequently asked questions on immigration matters. It offers several ways of searching through the information available, including search by keyword. From Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada.