Frequently Asked Questions about the Permanent Resident Card

Here are some general answers to frequently asked questions about the Permanent Resident Card.

How long will I have to wait before I receive my PR Card?

The current processing time for new PR cards is about 25 days once Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) receives your complete application package.

When you renew your PR card, it generally takes 71 days once IRCC receives your application and you have met the residency requirements.

You can find up-to-date application processing times on the IRCC website.

It is a good idea to allow a lot of time for your PR application to be processed. The processing times are updated weekly, and depending on the number of applications received, it can suddenly take several months to process PR card applications.

How will I receive my PR Card?

If this is your first PR card as a new permanent resident, IRCC will mail it to you once you arrive in Canada It will be sent to the address you provided. Sometimes, IRCC will ask you to pick up your card at their nearest office.

If you did not provide a mailing address when you landed, you must send your address to IRCC through IRCC’s online tool within 180 days of becoming a permanent resident. If you do not do this, IRCC will cancel the PR card, and you will have to apply for another one and pay the processing fees.

If you do not receive your PR card within six weeks of the date IRCC mailed your card, you must let IRCC know.

If you are a permanent resident renewing or replacing your PR card, you will most likely receive your renewed PR card by mail. However, you may be randomly selected to pick up your PR card at an IRCC office.

If you are randomly chosen to pick up your PR card, IRCC will contact you to schedule an appointment. You may reschedule your appointment if needed. However, you must pick up your PR card within 180 days. If you do not, your card may be cancelled, and you must apply again.

I received my PR Card, but there was a mistake. How can it be fixed?

Names - PR cards have limited space for names. If your surname is longer than 20 characters, or if your given names (first and second) are longer than 15 characters, your name will be shortened. This is not a mistake.

However, if your name has been spelled wrong, you should contact IRCC to reissue your PR card.

Other Data - If you notice that other data on your card is wrong, you should contact IRCC to have your PR card reissued.

I landed in Canada, but I need to return to my country to finalize my move. Can I travel without my PR card?

The PR card is also a travel document. You should generally wait until you have received your PR card before travelling. If you must travel, contact the IRCC for information on travel and documentation requirements.

What do I do with my valid PR Card when I apply for a renewed card?

You must keep your valid PR card until you receive your new card. If you travel during this period, you can use your valid PR card to re-enter Canada. Once you receive your renewed PR card, you should destroy the old one.

My card expired while I was outside of Canada. What do I do?

You should always be sure your travel documents will be valid for the entire time you plan to be outside Canada. If your PR card expires while you are away, you must apply for a permanent resident travel document (PTRD). You can learn more about this process on the IRCC website.

Where can I get help?

Please visit the IRCC website for further information on renewing PR cards. You can also contact IRCC directly by using their web form or calling the IRCC call centre at 1-888-242-2100.

You can get help from a settlement agency in your area. To look for an agency, go to Services Near Me.

You can also post your questions and read about the experiences of other newcomers on our Discussion Forum.

For More Information

  • Permanent Resident Card - This information page is for permanent residents who are applying for an initial, renewed or replaced Permanent Resident Card. From IRCC.
  • Permanent Resident Travel Document (PRTD) - This application is for permanent residents outside of Canada who need proof of their status so they can return to Canada. From IRCC.
  • 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.
  • Understand permanent resident status - Find out what you need to know about living in Canada as a permanent resident. From IRCC.
  • Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) - The federal department responsible for Canadian immigration, refugees and citizenship. Its website has information on immigration policy, programs and services, application kits, and more.
Last updated: September 24, 2024 4000502