Permanent Resident Card Applications & Renewals
The PR card is official proof of permanent resident status and is required to board commercial travel back to Canada. New PRs receive a first card after landing or in-Canada approval; existing PRs renew or replace expired, lost, or damaged cards.
Renewal generally requires 730 days physically present in Canada in the five years before applying, unless exceptions apply (e.g. accompanying a Canadian citizen spouse abroad or certain employment abroad). Non-compliance can trigger status review.
Cohen Visa advises on residency days, exceptions, and complete renewal applications.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about PR card applications and renewals
You should apply before your card expires if you plan to travel commercially into Canada, or promptly if your card is lost, stolen, or damaged. Processing times vary; plan travel with a valid card or understand alternative documentation rules when appropriate.
Generally, you must have been physically present in Canada for at least 730 days within the five years immediately before you apply, unless exceptions such as accompanying a Canadian citizen spouse abroad or certain employment abroad apply. Officers assess compliance with supporting evidence.
You may still be a permanent resident, but renewal can be refused or referred for in-Canada residency determination or removal proceedings in serious cases. Cohen Visa helps assess risk and documentary strategy before you apply.
New PRs usually receive a first card after landing from abroad or after in-Canada approval, through the process IRCC prescribes. Address and photo requirements must be followed.
Travel plans depend on whether you have a valid PRTD if outside Canada, or valid status and documents. We advise on timing and risks before you leave Canada without a valid card.
We review residency days and exceptions, prepare renewals or replacements, advise on humanitarian or exceptional cases where relevant, and align submissions with IRCC expectations.