How to Get a Canada Permanent Resident Card

If you’re a foreign national living in Canada and have been approved for permanent residency, congratulations! You’re now one step closer to obtaining a Permanent Resident (PR) card, which is a vital document that proves your status as a permanent resident in Canada. 

The PR card is also necessary if you plan on travelling outside of Canada, as it serves as a form of identification when re-entering the country. 

In this blog post, we’ll walk you through the steps of obtaining a PR card in Canada.

5 Steps of the Process to Get a PR Card in Canada 

Step 1: Ensure You’re Eligible

Before applying for a PR card, you must ensure that you’re eligible. The following requirements must be met:

1. You must be a permanent resident of Canada.
2. You must not be under a removal order.
3. You must not be a Canadian citizen.
4. You must not be convicted of a serious crime.

If you meet these requirements, you’re eligible to apply for a PR card.

Step 2: Gather Required Documents

The next step is to gather all the required documents for your PR card application. These documents include:

1. A completed Application for a Permanent Resident Card (IMM 5444) form.
2. A photocopy of your valid passport or travel document.
3. Two identical passport-sized photographs of yourself.
4. Proof of your current residence in Canada.
5. Proof of your status as a permanent resident in Canada.

Make sure you have all the necessary documents ready before proceeding to the next step.

Step 3: Submit Your Application

Once you have all the required documents, you can submit your application. You can do this online or by mail. If you choose to apply online, you’ll need to create an account on the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website and follow the instructions to complete your application. 

If you choose to apply by mail, you’ll need to download and fill out the Application for a Permanent Resident Card (IMM 5444) form, gather all the required documents, and mail them to the IRCC office.

Step 4: Wait for the Processing

After submitting your application, you’ll need to wait for it to be processed. The processing time varies depending on various factors such as the volume of applications being processed, the completeness of your application, and whether any additional information or documents are required. You can check the status of your application online or by contacting the IRCC.

Step 5: Receive Your PR Card

Once your application is approved, you’ll receive your PR card in the mail. The PR card is valid for five years and must be renewed before it expires if you plan on continuing to live in Canada.

Other Important Facts to Keep in Mind

To provide more comprehensive information on how to get a PR card in Canada, here we go with a few additional facts to consider:

1. Eligibility Criteria for PR Card Renewal

After five years, your PR card will expire, and you will need to renew it. The eligibility criteria for renewal are different from those for the initial application, and it’s essential to know them to avoid any complications.

2. Common Reasons for PR Card Application Rejection

Unfortunately, not all PR card applications are approved. Some common reasons for rejection include incomplete or incorrect applications, insufficient supporting documents, and criminal convictions. Knowing these reasons can help you avoid them and increase your chances of success.

3. PR Card Application Fees

The application fee for a PR card is non-refundable, and it’s important to know how much it costs before you begin the application process. The fees may change over time, and it’s essential to check the current fees before submitting your application.

4. Importance of keeping your PR card up-to-date

Your PR card is a crucial document that proves your status as a permanent resident in Canada. It’s important to keep it up-to-date and renew it before it expires to avoid any complications when travelling outside Canada or applying for citizenship.

5. Tips for a successful PR card application

Applying for a PR card can be a complex process, but there are several things you can do to increase your chances of success. These include ensuring that your application is complete and accurate, providing all the required supporting documents, and following up on your application’s progress.

Obtaining a PR card in Canada can seem like a difficult task, but it’s a crucial step in ensuring your status as a permanent resident in Canada. By following the steps mentioned in this blog post, you can make the process smoother and increase your chances of success. Good luck!

Final Verdict

Obtaining a Permanent Resident (PR) card is a vital step in establishing yourself as a permanent resident in Canada. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can make the process smoother and increase your chances of success.

Canada is a welcoming and diverse country that offers plenty of opportunities for immigrants to thrive and succeed. We hope that this guide has been helpful and wish you all the best on your journey toward becoming a Canadian citizen.

FAQ

Can I apply for a PR card before landing in Canada?

Yes, you can apply for a PR card before landing in Canada. However, you must land in Canada within 180 days of your application being approved, or your PR status may be revoked.

How long does it take to receive a PR card?

It typically takes around 50 to 60 days to process a PR card application. However, processing times may vary depending on the volume of applications and other factors.

What should I do if my PR card is lost or stolen?

If your PR card is lost, stolen, or damaged, you must apply for a new one as soon as possible. You can apply for a replacement PR card online or by mail.

Can I travel outside Canada while waiting for my PR card to arrive?

Yes, you can travel outside Canada while waiting for your PR card to arrive. However, you must have other valid travel documents, such as a passport or travel visa.

Do I need to take a language test to apply for a PR card?

If you are applying for a PR card as a skilled worker, you may need to take a language test to prove your language proficiency. However, if you are applying as a spouse or dependent of a Canadian citizen or permanent resident, you may not need to take a language test.