Permanent Resident Travel Document (PRTD)
If you are outside Canada and do not have a valid PR card, you may need a PRTD to travel to Canada by commercial vehicle (air, bus, boat, or train).
The Permanent Resident Travel Document (PRTD) lets you board a commercial carrier to Canada when you are a permanent resident outside Canada and you do not have a valid PR card. Typical situations include an expired, lost, stolen, or damaged card while you are abroad.
PRTD applications are submitted to the Canadian visa office responsible for your area. Use Guide 5529 and the document checklist (IMM 5644) for the exact list of forms and evidence. A PRTD is usually limited to one entry; after arrival, apply for a new PR card as needed.
If you plan to renounce permanent resident status and only visit Canada temporarily, follow IRCC guidance—do not apply for a PRTD for that purpose.
Fees, forms, and office instructions change. Always use the current pages on Canada.ca before you submit.
- Application (IMM 5444) and document checklist (IMM 5644)Often required
Use the current forms and Guide 5529 on Canada.ca; submit to the visa office that serves your country or region.
- Valid passport or travel documentOften required
As listed in your checklist—typically the document you will use to travel.
- Proof of permanent resident statusOften required
Documents IRCC lists for your case (for example copy of former PR card, COPR, or other evidence as instructed).
- Digital photosOften required
Meet IRCC specifications for your application type.
- Proof of meeting residency obligation
If applicable, evidence that you meet PR residency requirements or qualify for an exemption—see Guide 5529.
- Use of a representative (IMM 5476) if applicable
If someone represents you for a fee or other compensation.
- A government fee applies for a PRTD. Confirm the current amount on the IRCC fee list before you pay.
- You pay the fee for your application even if it is refused; verify refund rules on IRCC if applicable.
- A PRTD is for permanent residents who are outside Canada and need to return by commercial transport when they do not have a valid PR card (for example card expired, lost, stolen, or damaged while abroad).
- A PRTD is normally valid for a single entry to Canada. After you return, apply for a new PR card if you need one.
- If you want to give up permanent resident status and visit Canada as a visitor only, do not apply for a PRTD—see IRCC for voluntary renunciation.
- You must meet your residency obligation unless an exemption applies; officers assess your application on the facts and IRCC rules.
- Processing times vary by visa office; PRTD applications are often prioritized, but completeness and verification affect timing.
- Informational only—not legal advice. Follow Guide 5529 and your visa office instructions.
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.