How to Renew Your Canada PR Card
The Canadian Permanent Resident Card is an official document that proves that the person has permanent residency status in Canada.
The person allowed to live and work in Canada permanently with the help of this document. It is a wallet-sized card with your photo, name, and a unique PR Card number.
This card is also required when a permanent resident travels outside Canada to enter again in the country.
What are the Eligibility Criteria to get the Canada PR Card?
- You must be a permanent resident of Canada.
- When you are applying, you must be living in Canada.
- You need to be physically present in Canada for at least 2 years in the past 5 years.
- The Candidate must not be facing any legal problems related to their immigration
- The Candidate’s application must have all the necessary documents attached with correct information.
What is the Validity of this PR Card?
- It is usually valid for 5 years
- In some cases, like for a newly landed immigrant, the card may be valid for only 1 year
- The expiry date is mentioned on the card.
- Your permanent residency status does not end even if your card expires.
- You will not be able to re-enter Canada via plane, bus, train, or boat with an invalid PR Card
How Long Does It Take in Canada PR Card Processing? (2026)
- Once you apply, it takes 45 to 65 days to receive your PR card.
- The timing are same for new applications or renewals
- However, processing timing may vary according to the number of applications or any personal situation of the applicant
- Your current processing time status can be checked on the official IRCC website
What are the Advantages of Having a Canada PR Card?
- A verified proof of you being a permanent resident of Canada.
- Allows you to travel freely and return to Canada without any issue
- You can live, study or work in any part of Canada.
- You get healthcare, public education, and other government benefits
- If you meet the required conditions, you can even apply for Canadian citizenship
- Provides you protection under the Canadian law and the Charter of Rights and Freedoms
When Should One Renew their PR Card in Canada? (2026)
You should get your PR Card renewed if
- It gets expired or is about to expire within 9 months
- Your card gets lost, damaged, or stolen
How to Renew Your Card?
These are the steps to be followed
- Go to the IRCC website and get the IMM 5444 form downloaded.
- Fill in the necessary personal details, travel history, etc.
- Collect all the necessary documents like your current PR card, travel documents, and proof of residence
- Get the passport-style photos according to the specifications of IRCC
- Pay the renewal fee, ie., $50 CAD currently
- Mail or courier your application to the address mentioned in the guide.
- Wait for any further instructions
What Documents are Required for the Renewal of the PR Card in Canada?
These are the basic documents you may require
- A photocopy of your expired or soon-to-expire Canadian PR card
- A photocopy of your traveling documents or passport(s), covering the last 5 years.
- Documents to prove your residency in Canada. It could be utility bills, tax returns or rental agreements.
- 2 photographs according to the PR card photo requirements
- The receipt of fee payment
- Any other documents may be required if you stayed outside Canada for a long period
How Much Does it Cost to Renew the PR Card ?
- The current fee for the renewal of the PR Card is $50 CAD
- Online payments using a credit/debit card are accepted
- Once you make the payment, you will receive a receipt which must be attached to your application.
- Your fees are non-refundable even if your application is not accepted.
How Should One Re-Enter Canada with an Expired PR Card?
- You can not board any commercial vehicle, like a train, bus, plane, or boat
- You must apply for a PRTD, ie, Permanent Resident Travel Document, from the nearest Canadian visa office or embassy. However, it will allow you to enter Canada only once.
- The renewal of the PR card must be applied for as soon as possible.
Can I renew PR Card Canada Online?
- You cannot completely apply for the PR Card renewal online yet
- However, you can download the forms, pay fees, and check your application status online
- You might be asked for additional documents by IRCC via their online portal
- A full online application system is being developed but not live as of early 2026
What is the Canada PR Card Number?
- Canada PR card number is a unique number printed on the back side of each card.
- It starts with 2 letters and is followed by 10 numbers (for eg, RC0987654321)
- This number is required for any PR Card-related application or status check
