Get a free, no obligation personal loan quote with rates as low as 9.99%
Get Started You can apply with no impact to your credit score

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.

FAQ

Will Canada force me to leave the country if my permanent resident card expires?

You are not expelled from Canada immediately when your permanent resident card expires. You maintain your PR status and can stay but you are no longer eligible for certain provincial programs. 

How can I enter Canada if my PR card expires while I travel?

If your PR card expires when you’re out of Canada, you may not be allowed back in. You can’t renew your PR card when you’re outside of Canada. Instead, it must be renewed in Canada.  If you’re out of the country, you’ll need to apply for a permanent resident travel document (PRTD) before returning to Canada. Otherwise, you may not be allowed to get back into Canada. 

Can I travel with a PR card?

Yes, your PR card will show that you’re a permanent resident of Canada when you travel. When you return to Canada after travelling abroad, you’ll need to present your PR card and passport to border officials. Again, if you don’t have your PR card with you or your card has expired, you’ll need to apply for a PRTD before coming back. 

Can I shorten my PR renewal processing time?

If you’re in a rush to have your PR card renewed, you may be able to request urgent renewal processing. In order to qualify for this fast-tracked processing, you must prove that you’re travelling within the next 3 months for the purposes of a serious illness, the illness or death of a family member, a job opportunity, or to carry out tasks for your current job. Keep in mind that even if you’re eligible, there’s no guarantee that your PR card renewal will be processed urgently or that you’ll receive the card by the date you need it.   
Lisa Rennie avatar on Loans Canada
Lisa Rennie

Lisa has been working as a personal finance writer for more than a decade, creating unique content that helps to educate Canadian consumers in the realms of real estate, mortgages, investing and financial health. For years, she held her real estate license in Toronto, Ontario before giving it up to pursue writing within this realm and related niches. Lisa is very serious about smart money management and helping others do the same.

More From This Author

Special Offers

More From Our Experts

https://loanscanada.ca/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Permanent-resident-card.png
What Can You Do With A Permanent Resident Card?

By Bryan Daly
Published on June 12, 2023

Are you looking to get your permanent resident card in Canada? Find out how to get yours and what the process is like.

https://loanscanada.ca/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/OINP.png
How To Immigrate To Canada Through OINP

By Bryan Daly

Looking for a ways to immigrate to Canada? Consider the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) to gain permanent residency.

https://loanscanada.ca/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Immigration-Consultant.png
Do You Need An Immigration Consultant?

By Lisa Rennie

Navigating the complexities involved with Canadian immigration on your own can be stressful. Instead, use an immigration consultant.

https://loanscanada.ca/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Temporary-resident-visa-Canada.png
What Can You Do With A Temporary Resident Visa In Canada?

By Lisa Rennie

Having a Temporary Resident Visa in Canada allows you to do a few things, but what are they? Find out here.

https://loanscanada.ca/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/What-Is-Super-Visa-Insurance-And-Do-I-Need-It-To-Come-To-Canada-1.png
What Is Super Visa Insurance And Do I Need It To Come To Canada?

By Corrina Murdoch

There are many criteria used to consider whether or not you will get approved for a Super Visa, among which is the insurance you get.

https://loanscanada.ca/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/How-To-Move-To-Canada.png
Ways To Immigrate To Canada

By Lisa Rennie

Want to move to Canada but don't know what's the best way? Check out our guide on all the ways you can move to Canada.

https://loanscanada.ca/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/Moving-to-Canada-Documents-Required.png
Moving To Canada: Documents You Need And Services To Use

By Lisa Rennie

Are you new to Canada or looking to move here from another country? Here are all the documents you need and services you should take advantage of.

https://loanscanada.ca/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/Best-Newcomer-Credit-Cards-Canada.png
Best Credit Card For Newcomers In Canada 2024

By Lisa Rennie

As a newcomer in Canada getting a credit card can be difficult. Check out out list of the best credit card for newcomers in Canada.

Recognized As One Of Canada's Top Growing Companies

Why choose Loans Canada?

Apply Once &
Get Multiple Offers
Save Time
And Money
Get Your Free
Credit Score
Free
Service
Expert Tips
And Advice
Exclusive
Offers

Build Credit For Just $10/Month

With KOHO's prepaid card you can build a better credit score for just $10/month.

Koho Prepaid Credit Card