Permanent resident card (new, renew, replace)
Apply for your first PR card, renew an expiring card, or replace a lost, stolen, or damaged card while you are in Canada (or as directed by IRCC for your situation).
The PR card proves your status as a permanent resident in Canada. You may apply for your first card after you become a permanent resident, renew it before it expires, or replace it if it is lost, stolen, or damaged.
Most applicants submit online through the Permanent Residence Portal when IRCC directs you there. Use the document checklist and instruction guide that match your situation—requirements differ for a first card, renewal, replacement, or updates to personal information.
Processing times change. Plan travel carefully: airlines usually require a valid PR card (or other accepted document) for commercial flights to Canada. If you are outside Canada without a valid card, review the Permanent Resident Travel Document (PRTD) guide.
Fees and forms are updated on Canada.ca. Always confirm the current instructions before you apply or pay.
- Application for a permanent resident card (IMM 5444)Often required
Use the current form and instruction guide on Canada.ca; many applicants use the Permanent Residence Portal where available.
- Digital photosOften required
Meet IRCC photo specifications for PR card applications (size, background, date stamp rules).
- Valid passport or travel documentOften required
Copy of the biographical page and any pages IRCC lists in the document checklist for your case.
- Previous PR card (if you have one)
For renewal or replacement, include your current or most recent card if it exists.
- Proof of legal name and other identity documents
As required for your application type (for example name change or gender identifier updates—see IRCC).
- Police report or statutory declaration
If your card was lost or stolen, IRCC may require a police report or other proof—follow the checklist.
- Urgent processing request (if applicable)
Only when you qualify under IRCC urgent criteria; extra fee may apply in Canada.
- Government fees apply for a new PR card, renewal, or replacement. Confirm the current fee on the IRCC fee list before you pay.
- Urgent processing in Canada, when you qualify, has an additional fee—see IRCC for eligibility and current amounts.
- Biometrics are not typically required for a standard PR card application in the same way as many temporary resident applications—follow your personalized checklist from IRCC.
- You must be a permanent resident of Canada to apply for a PR card (with limited exceptions described by IRCC).
- You must meet your permanent resident residency obligation unless you qualify for an exemption or humanitarian considerations as described by IRCC.
- Apply to renew before your card expires if you plan to travel; processing times vary—check IRCC estimates.
- If your card is lost, stolen, or damaged, follow IRCC instructions for replacement and any required police report or declaration.
- If you are outside Canada without a valid PR card, you generally cannot use the PR card application alone to board a commercial flight to Canada—you may need a Permanent Resident Travel Document (see the PRTD guide).
- Informational only—not legal advice. Use official IRCC instructions for your application type.
Disclaimer
This guide is for general information only. Immigration rules change frequently. Always confirm requirements with Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) or a regulated Canadian immigration consultant or lawyer before submitting an application.