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PR Card Renewal in Canada: Step-by-Step Guide for 2025


pr-card-renewal-canada

Last Updated On : March 18 , 2025


Are you a permanent resident of Canada with a PR card that's about to expire in 2025? Don't worry - We've got you covered with this comprehensive guide to renewing your PR card.

Renewing your Permanent Resident card is a crucial process that ensures you maintain your status and travel privileges in Canada. Let's walk through everything you need to know to make this process as smooth as possible.

When Should You Apply for Renewal?

The ideal time to apply for your PR card renewal is within six months of its expiration date. However, you can apply for renewal at any time. Keep in mind that processing times can vary, so it's always better to start early rather than waiting until the last minute.

If your card has already expired, you can still apply for renewal, but you won't be able to use air travel to return to Canada until you receive your new card. If you need to travel urgently, you may need to apply for a Permanent Resident Travel Document instead.

Eligibility Requirements

Before starting your application, ensure you meet these basic requirements:

  • You are a permanent resident of Canada
  • You have fulfilled your residency obligations (physically present in Canada for at least 730 days within the five-year period before applying)
  • You have not become a Canadian citizen
  • You are not subject to a removal order from Canada

Step-by-Step Renewal Process For PR Card

There are several steps for Canada PR card renewal, from submitting the required documents to tracking your application's final status. How much fee is required for the process, physical presence (hours) requirements, multiple application methods and more steps are described below: 

  1. Gather Your Documents
  2. Fill Out the Application
  3. Calculate Your Physical Presence in Canada
  4. Prepare Your Supporting Documents
  5. Submit Your Application
  6. Biometrics Appointment
  7. Track Your Application

Step 1: Gather Your Documents

You'll need to prepare:

  • A completed application form (IMM 5444)
  • Two identical photos meeting IRCC specifications
  • Proof of payment of the processing fee ($50 as of 2025)
  • Supporting documents to prove your residency in Canada
  • Your current PR card (if not expired)
  • Any additional documents specific to your situation

Step 2: Fill Out the Application

The application form (IMM 5444) can be downloaded from the IRCC website. Be sure to:

  • Complete all required fields
  • Sign and date the form
  • Include your email address for correspondence
  • Double-check all information for accuracy

Step 3: Calculate Your Physical Presence in Canada

You'll need to demonstrate that you've met the residency obligation of being physically present in Canada for at least 730 days (2 years) within the 5-year period before applying.

The application includes a travel history section where you must list all trips outside Canada in 2025. Be thorough and accurate, as any discrepancies could delay your application.

Step 4: Prepare Your Supporting Documents

Include evidence of your time spent in Canada, which might include:

  • Tax returns and notices of assessment
  • Employment records
  • Housing leases or property tax statements
  • Provincial health insurance records
  • Bank statements showing activity in Canada
  • Academic records if you studied in Canada

Step 5: Submit Your Application

You can submit your application:

  • Online through the IRCC portal (fastest method)
  • By mail to the Case Processing Centre in Sydney, Nova Scotia
  • In person at a designated Service Canada location

For online applications, you'll need to scan all documents and upload them according to the instructions provided.

Step 6: Biometrics Appointment

New for 2025: Most PR card renewal applicants are now required to provide biometrics (fingerprints and photo). After submitting your application, you'll receive instructions on how to book an appointment at a biometrics collection center.

Step 7: Track Your Application

After submission, you'll receive an acknowledgment letter with a unique application number. You can use this number to track the status of your application through your online IRCC account.

How Long Does It Take to Renew a Permanent Resident Card?

It will take 68 days for your card to be processed. To smooth out this process, submit a total application bundle and ensure that you’ve satisfied the residency necessity.

Important Tips for a Successful Renewal

  • Start early – processing times can take 3-4 months or longer
  • Be honest and thorough in your travel history
  • Ensure your photos meet all requirements
  • Keep copies of everything you submit
  • Update IRCC if you change your address during processing
  • Consider using tracked mail services if applying by post

What If Your Application Is Refused?

If your application is refused, you'll receive a letter explaining the reasons. Common reasons include:

  • Not meeting residency requirements
  • Incomplete documentation
  • Concerns about your permanent resident status

You may have options including:

  • Submitting a new application with additional documentation
  • Filing an appeal with the Immigration Appeal Division
  • Consulting with an immigration lawyer or consultant

How to Renew Your PR Card on an Urgent Basis

Under certain circumstances, such as a family emergency, a business meeting, or an urgent seminar, you may need to travel outside Canada on short notice. In such cases, you may apply for urgent processing of your PR card renewal . Follow the instructions provided by IRCC (Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada) for expediting the PR card renewal process.

Final Thoughts

Renewing your PR card is an important process to maintain your status in Canada. By following these steps and being prepared, you can navigate the renewal process with confidence.

Remember, permanent residency is a significant step on your Canadian journey. Whether you're planning to apply for Canadian citizenship or maintain your PR status long-term, keeping your PR card valid ensures you can continue to enjoy the benefits of living in Canada.

Have you started your PR card renewal process yet? The sooner you begin, the more peace of mind you'll have knowing your status in Canada remains secure.

Frequently Asked Questions: Canadian PR Card Renewal (2025)

It is recommended to apply for your PR card renewal within six months of its expiration date.
  • Gathering required documents (application form, photos, proof of payment, supporting residency documents, current PR card), 
  • Completing the application form (IMM 5444) , 
  • Calculating and demonstrating your physical presence in Canada, Preparing supporting documents as proof of residency, 
  • Submitting your application online, by mail, or in person, attending a biometrics appointment (fingerprints and photo), and last 
  • Tracking your application status online.
You need to provide evidence demonstrating you have met the physical presence requirement. This can include tax returns and notices of assessment, employment records, housing leases or property tax statements, provincial health insurance records, bank statements showing activity in Canada, and academic records if you studied in Canada.
The processing fee for PR card renewal is $50.
You must have been physically present in Canada for at least 730 days (two years) within the five-year period immediately before the date you sign your PR card renewal application.
If your PR card has already expired, you can still apply for renewal, but you will likely not be able to use air travel to return to Canada. For urgent travel, you may need to apply for a Permanent Resident Travel Document (PRTD) from a Canadian visa office abroad.
If your application is refused, you will receive a letter explaining the reasons for the refusal, which could include not meeting residency requirements or incomplete documentation. Your options may include submitting a new application with additional documentation, filing an appeal with the Immigration Appeal Division, or consulting with an immigration lawyer or consultant to understand your specific situation and available recourse.