1. When to renew
A permanent resident card is usually valid for 5 years (1 year in some cases). According to IRCC, you must renew it if it expires in less than 9 months or has already expired. The new card has a new expiry date.
2. Who can apply
To be eligible, you must have permanent resident status, be in Canada (IRCC does not mail cards abroad) and not have lost that status, for example through a removal order, becoming a citizen or failing the residence requirement. If you are outside Canada without a valid card, you must apply for a permanent resident travel document to return to Canada.
3. The steps
You apply in IRCC’s Permanent Residence Portal with form IMM 5444. You must also complete the document checklist (IMM 5644) and upload the requested documents. Fees are not paid in the portal: you pay IRCC online, then upload the receipt. No refunds are possible while the application is in progress. Before submitting, answer every question, sign electronically by typing your name exactly as on your passport, and include the receipt and all documents. If a representative helps you, add form IMM 5476. Current fees are on IRCC’s official fee list.
4. Processing times, urgent processing and travel
Times vary with the type of application, its completeness and how quickly you respond: check IRCC’s official processing times tool, as figures on third-party sites differ. Urgent processing is possible in some cases, but the minimum processing time is 3 weeks and IRCC cannot guarantee you will get the card in time. If a trip is coming and your card has expired or is about to, plan for a permanent resident travel document application.
5. Card errors and damaged cards
If the error is IRCC’s and you received the card less than 60 days ago, you can request a free reissue (form IMM 5531). A name shortened to fit the card’s 28-letter limit is not an error. For a damaged chip, IRCC first asks for a web form with photos of the card, and may send a new card for free with the same expiry date.
Sources: IRCC — get, renew or replace a PR card, IRCC — who can apply and IRCC — urgent processing.
See also: residence permanente
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This article is for information only and does not replace personalized advice. Always check current requirements on the IRCC website.