Citizenship and Immigration Canada issues the Permanent Resident card and it acts as a valid identity document for persons traveling abroad and returning to Canada by car, bus, boat, airline or any other means of commercial transportation. Hence, it is always advised to renew your Permanent Residence Card on time to avail its full advantage.
The Canadian permanent resident (PR) card was first introduced in June 2002 in order to heighten Canada’s border security and provide immigrants with secure and convenient proof of their status in Canada. Once a person has been approved for Canadian permanent residence, they become eligible to receive a permanent resident card.
This card can be used as a valid travel document for entering Canada’s borders. It is advised that permanent residents obtain their PR card, since this card allows permanent residents to travel outside of Canada’s borders and show proof of status when required.
To apply for a PR card renewal, you will have to fill out an application consisting of a form IMM 5444e along with requisite documents.
Eligibility for PR Card Renewal:
In order to be eligible for a PR card renewal you must be:
- A permanent resident of Canada.
- Be physically present in Canada.
- Not under an effective removal order.
- Free of conviction for any type of offense.
- Not a Canadian citizen or registered Indian under the Indian Act.
- Having proof of a lost or stolen PR card (if applicable).
Permanent resident cards are valid for up to 5 years. If your PR card is about to expire or will expire in less than 9 months you can apply for a new one. You will remain a permanent resident even if your card expires. A person can only lose their PR status if they go through an official process. You can lose your PR status in the following situations:
- A removal order is made against you and comes into effect
- An officer determines you are no longer a permanent resident
- You voluntarily renounce your permanent resident status
- You become a Canadian citizen.
If you do not have proof that you are meeting the residency requirements of PR status means two years of residence in Canada in the last five years. In case you are not meeting the residency requirements or not sure whether you met the PR residency obligation and are eligible for PR Card Renewal and need to learn more about the PR Card Renewal Process, get in touch with us.
Our team of expert can help, who has years of experience in handling complex immigration applications.