The permanent residents returning to Canada by plane, train, bus or boat need a valid permanent resident card (PR card) or permanent resident travel document (PRTD). Without one, they may not be able to return.
Further, if the PR card has expired, you will have to apply for its renewal. Note that this PR card has nothing to do with your Canadian residency. That is, you will remain a permanent resident even after the expiration of your card.
Eligibility
For eligibility for a PR card:
- You must be a permanent resident,
- You must submit your application in Canada
Note that if your PR card isn’t ready before you leave Canada or you are outside Canada without a valid PR card, you must apply for a permanent resident travel document (PRTD) then apply for a PR card after returning to Canada.
You need to apply for a PR card if:
- Your current PR card has expired or will expire within the next 9 months,
- You have lost your card,
- You didn’t get your PR card within 180 days of entering Canada,
It's important to update your PR card to:
- Legally change your name in the future,
- Change your citizenship,
- Change your gender designation,
- Correct your date of birth.
Time lived in Canada
You must have lived in Canada for at least 730 days during the last five years to keep your permanent resident status intact. However, these 730 days don’t need to be continuous with some days spent in any foreign country eligible in these 730 days.
You can either use a travel journal to help you track your time in Canada or:
- Ask a Canadian border officer when you enter Canada,
- Apply for or renew your PR card. We will tell you if you’re eligible.
