Permanent resident (PR) card - IRCC

This IRCC page offers essential information for permanent residents (PRs) in Canada. It covers issuance and renewal of the PR card, the residency obligation, how time outside Canada affects status, how status may be lost or renounced, travel documents, and how permanent resident status interacts with citizenship eligibility.

PR card, first issue, renewal and replacement

After you become a permanent resident, you normally receive your first Permanent Resident (PR) card automatically. You must ensure your Canadian address is provided within 180 days of your arrival. To renew or replace a PR card (for example if it is lost, stolen, expired or damaged) you must apply through the PR Portal and meet eligibility including meeting the residency obligation.

Residency obligation and maintaining status

As a PR you must live in Canada for at least 730 days (2 years) within every 5-year period. Time spent outside Canada may count in certain circumstances—such as working full-time for a Canadian employer or accompanying a Canadian citizen spouse—but generally extended absences may put your status at risk. If you fail to meet the obligation, you may face loss of PR status after reassessment.

Travelling outside Canada and return

If you travel outside Canada, you must carry a valid PR card (or travel document if you are outside without one) to return by commercial carrier. Failing to have valid documentation may complicate your re-entry. Time outside Canada still counts toward the residency obligation only under specified conditions.

Renouncing or losing PR status

You may voluntarily give up (renounce) your permanent resident status if you choose. IRCC also has the authority to remove status if you do not meet obligations, misrepresent information, or become inadmissible for reasons such as security or criminality. Understanding when status may be lost helps you plan ahead.

Interaction with citizenship eligibility

Holding PR status is a crucial prerequisite for applying to become a Canadian citizen. Your time as a PR (and sometimes time spent as a temporary resident) counts toward the physical presence requirement for citizenship. Therefore maintaining proper status and meeting residency rules is vital for future citizenship applications.

Practical tips

• Keep a detailed record of your travel entries and exits, including dates and reason for travel.
• Apply to renew your PR card well before expiry; avoid long absences from Canada unless you meet the special conditions.
• If you plan extended travel outside Canada, verify that your absence will not breach the residency obligation.
• If you receive a “record of landing” or confirmation of permanent residence, retain it as part of your file.
• Be aware of your tax-filing obligations, address changes and other administrative tasks which may affect your status.

Why this matters

Permanent resident status gives you many rights in Canada, but also important obligations. Failing to respect these can jeopardize your legal status, ability to travel, and eligibility for citizenship. This page serves as a reliable official reference for understanding how to maintain your PR status effectively.