If you are a permanent resident of Canada living in Ontario and your Permanent Resident Card (PR card) is about to expire, it is important to renew it in a timely manner to avoid any complications while traveling or accessing government services.
Here are the steps to renew your PR card in Ontario. Follow these steps to apply for a permanent resident (PR) card. If you forget something, your application will be sent back to you. You will then have to submit a new application.
You can now apply online to renew your PR card.
Step 1
Check eligibility
Before starting the renewal process, make sure you are eligible to renew your PR card. To be eligible, you must:
- Be a permanent resident of Canada.
- Be physically present in Canada.
- Have been physically present in Canada for at least 730 days during the last five years.
- Not be under a removal order.
Step 2
Get the application package
The application package includes a guide and all the forms you need to complete to apply for a PR card. Read the guide to help you fill out the forms correctly.
Visit the official website of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) and download the PR card renewal application package (IMM 5444) and the Document Checklist (IMM 5644).
Step 3
Gather all required documents
Use the Document Checklist (IMM 5644) to make sure you don’t forget anything. Include two passport-sized photos (as per specifications provided by IRCC).
Don’t forget to include all relevant documents if there have been changes in your personal information (e.g., marriage certificate, legal name change documents).
Step 4
Pay your application fees
You must pay the PR card application fee online. To pay your fees online, you need:
- a printer
- a valid email address
- a credit or debit card.
After you pay, print your receipt and include it with your application.
Step 5
Make your application
Ensure that you fill out all the required forms accurately and completely.
Include with your application:
Your PR card:
- If you are applying to renew your card, keep your current card and include a photocopy of it with your application.
- If you are applying to replace a card because it is damaged or the information on it is wrong, send the card with your application.
A clear copy of your valid passport or travel document
Two photos that meet IRCC photo specifications
Any other identity documents listed in the Document Checklist (see the application package)
A copy of the receipt for the processing fee
A solemn declaration if your PR card was lost, stolen, destroyed or you didn’t receive it within 180 days of immigrating to Canada.
Step 6
Submit your application
Gather all the documents and mail them to the appropriate address provided in the application guide. Make sure you:
- answer all questions
- sign your application and all forms
- include the receipt for your payment
- include all the supporting documents
Send your application and payment to the Case Processing Centre in Sydney, Nova Scotia, Canada.
By mail:
Case Processing Centre — PR Card
P.O. Box 10020
Sydney, NS B1P 7C1
Canada
Or by courier:
Case Processing Centre – PR Card
49 Dorchester Street
Sydney, NS
B1P 5Z2
Step 6
Wait for processing
Processing times for PR card renewals can vary. Application processing times start from when IRCC gets a complete application with supporting documents and photos in the right format. It is recommended to check the IRCC website for current processing times. Be patient, as it may take several weeks for your application to be processed.
You can see the average processing times for permanent resident card (PR card) applications or check the status of your application.
If IRCC approves your application, they will mail you a PR card to your address (they don’t send your card to a third-party or non-Canadian address).
If you changed addresses or phone numbers after you submitted your application, contact IRCC to change this for you.
Important tips:
- Start the renewal process well in advance of your current PR card’s expiration date to ensure you have enough time for processing.
- Keep a copy of all documents submitted for your records.
- Notify IRCC of any changes in your contact information to ensure you receive important correspondence.
- In some cases, you may be asked to attend a biometrics appointment at a local Service Canada office. This involves having your fingerprints and photograph taken.
If you have any specific questions or concerns about your individual situation, consider seeking advice from an immigration professional or contacting the IRCC directly.
Remember, it is crucial to maintain your PR status by meeting the residency requirements outlined by IRCC. This includes spending a minimum of 730 days in Canada during the last five years.
