Did you know that you have to renew your permanent resident card in Canada? Surprise! Unlike Canadian citizenship, a permanent resident card is not, ahem, permanently valid.
Are you a permanent resident of Canada whose permanent resident card (PR card) is approaching its expiry date? If so, you’ll need to take steps to renew it, especially if you plan to travel any time soon. Read to find out how to renew your PR card, whether it’s expired or will expire soon.
Do Permanent Resident Cards Expire?
Permanent resident cards come with an expiry date. Most PR cards expire after 5 years, though some are only good for 1 year after issuance.
Before you travel outside of Canada, make sure you check the expiry date on your PR card. If it has expired, apply for a new one before leaving the country.
How Do You Renew Your Permanent Resident Card?
You can renew your permanent resident card if it’s already expired, or will expire within the next 9 months. To renew your card, you must be a permanent resident and submit your renewal application in Canada. Your new PR card will have a new expiration date and can be valid for up to 5 years.
If your permanent resident card expires you can still live, work, and go to school in Canada.You have to maintain the residency requirement. You can apply for permanent resident loans and credit cards, and you are still responsible for any debts you owe.
Steps On How To Renew Your PR Card
To renew your PR card, you’ll need to complete and submit a renewal application form, along with several documents. Your application package will include all the forms required and a guide to ensure that you’ve filled everything out accurately and included all required documents.
Follow these steps to renew your PR card.
Step 1. Fill Out Your Application
Complete your application in full, and include the following items upon submission:
- Your PR card. Include either a photocopy of your card if you’re renewing it, or the actual card itself if you’re applying for a replacement card due to damage or incorrect information
- Your passport or travel document, or the passport or document you had when you were approved for permanent residency in Canada
- Two pieces of photo ID
- Other required ID as specified in the application package’s document checklist
- Copy of the receipt
- Solemn declaration if your PR card was damaged, lost, stolen, or you haven’t received it within 180 days of moving to Canada.
Step 2. Pay The Fees
There is a $50 fee associated with renewing your permanent resident card, which you must pay online. You’ll need to pay this fee before applying for card renewal, as the receipt will need to be included with your application.
To pay online, you’ll need a valid email address and a debit card or credit card for payment. Once you’ve paid the renewal fee, print out your receipt and include it with the application.
Step 3. Submit Your Application
Before submitting your application, take some time to carefully review it to ensure it’s been filled out in its entirety and that all information is accurate and up-to-date. Then, sign the application and all required forms. Make sure you include your payment receipt and all the supporting documents with your application when submitting.
You can send your application via mail or courier:
By mail:
Case Processing Centre — Permanent Resident Card
P.O. Box 10020
Sydney, Nova Scotia
B1P 7C1
By courier:
Case Processing Centre – Permanent Resident Card
49 Dorchester Street
Sydney, Nova Scotia
B1P 5Z2
Step 4. Receive Your Card
It takes approximately 67 days for your PR card to be renewed or replaced. Once you receive your new card, make sure you destroy the old one by cutting it in half, then carefully and discreetly discard it.
Can You Renew Your PR Card If You’re Outside Canada?
As mentioned, you must make sure your PR card has not yet expired if you plan to leave Canada, as you’ll need the card to return. And when you come back, your card must be valid. As such, you’ll need to renew your PR card before leaving Canada, as renewing it can only be done in Canada and not abroad.
The only thing you can do outside of Canada if your PR card has already expired is apply for a permanent resident travel document (PRTD), which can only be applied for outside of Canada. Without a PR card or PRTD, you might be unable to travel back to Canada.
What Will Happen If My PR Card Expires?
Your status as a permanent resident of Canada will not expire; only the PR card will expire. Even after your card expires, you still have the right to continue living, studying, or working in Canada. But in order to maintain your PR status, you must remain in Canada for a specific amount of time.
When you receive your PR card after achieving permanent resident status in Canada, make a note of the card’s expiry date to avoid any delays in renewing it, especially if you decide to travel abroad.
Can You Get A Personal Loan In Canada With An Expired Permanent Resident Card?
One of the main qualification requirements for a personal loan is that you must either be a Canadian citizen or a permanent resident of Canada. As such, you’ll need a valid PR card to apply for a personal loan. That said, there are alternative lenders available who may let you apply even with an expired PR card, though you may need to show proof that you’ve already submitted a renewal application.
However, if you have a bad credit score, you may have a tough time getting approved for a personal loan, even with a valid PR card. Your credit score plays an essential role in your ability to get loan approval. It can also affect the interest rate you’re charged.
That’s why it’s so important to build your credit history as soon as you arrive in Canada. Before applying for a personal loan, check your credit score for free using Loans Canada’s CompareHub.
Final Thoughts About Renewing Your Permanent Resident Card
You may be wondering how to renew your PR card if you notice that it’s expired, or close to expiring. Luckily the process is not terribly complicated, though you may have to wait a while before receiving your new card after applying for renewal. Be mindful of your card’s expiry date, especially if you have plans to travel in the near future.
