PR Card in Canada: How to Get, Renew or Replace Yours
A PR card costs $50 each time you apply and lasts 5 years in most cases. You apply online with form IMM 5444. To renew, you must show you met the residency obligation of 730 days in Canada.
since 1991
What is a PR card?
A PR card is the standard identity document for a permanent resident. It is valid for 5 years, and in some cases for only 1 year.
You need a valid card, or a travel document, to board a flight to Canada. Your PR status does not end when the card expires.
Do I need to apply for my first PR card?
Normally no. IRCC mails your first card after you land if it has your Canadian address and a photo. See our landing and COPR guide.
When you apply
- Renew: your card is about to expire
- Replace: it was lost, stolen or damaged
- Update: you need to change your name or gender identifier
Is it time to apply?
A quick check before you start.
Apply if you
- Have a card that is expiring
- Lost your card or it was stolen or damaged
- Need to update personal information
Do something else if you
- Are outside Canada with no valid card: get a PR travel document
- Have just landed: IRCC mails your first card
- Doubt you met the residency rule: get advice first
See travel as a PR, landing and COPR and the after you get PR guide.
What to prepare before you apply
You apply online, so scan your documents first. Details come from IRCC. Source: IRCC.
Application form
Form IMM 5444, plus the document checklist IMM 5644.
Photo
A photo that meets IRCC specifications.
Identity documents
Supporting identity documents listed in the guide.
Proof of residency
Two pieces of evidence that you met the residency obligation. See our Appendix A guide.
Fee receipt
Pay the $50 fee to IRCC online, then upload the receipt in the portal.
Not sure your file is ready?
We check your days in Canada and your documents before you apply.
Rules to know before you apply
Residency obligation
To be eligible you must meet the residency obligation: 730 days in Canada within the past 5 years.
Under 5 years as a PR
If you have been a PR for less than 5 years, show you will meet the 730 days within 5 years of becoming a PR.
Two pieces of evidence
Provide copies of 2 documents that show you met the residency obligation.
Fee each time
The $50 fee applies every time you renew or replace your card. IRCC cannot refund it while processing.
Processing time
IRCC says the minimum processing time is 3 weeks, even for urgent requests.
Check the page date
IRCC updated its PR card page on 4 August 2026. Check it before you apply.
Related pages
These pages cover programs, points and the Express Entry process.
How to apply for your PR card
Five actions take you from documents to your card.
Check the rule
Confirm you met 730 days in the past 5 years.
Gather your documents
Collect your photo, identity documents and proof of residency.
Pay the fee
Pay $50 to IRCC online and keep the receipt.
Apply online
Submit IMM 5444 and your documents in the Permanent Residence Portal.
Track your file
Check your status in the IRCC tracking system.
Want your application checked?
We review your proof of residency before you submit.
PR card renewal, step by step
Six steps from your first check to your new card.
Count your days
Add up your days in Canada in the past 5 years.
Pick your evidence
Choose two documents that show you met the residency obligation.
Get a photo
Use a photo that meets IRCC specifications.
Pay the fee
Pay $50 to IRCC online and save the receipt.
Submit online
Upload your form, documents and receipt in the portal.
Track and wait
Check your status online. The minimum time is 3 weeks.
Five mistakes with PR card applications
These mistakes slow your file down.
Weak proof of days
Two clear documents beat a pile of unclear ones.
Forgetting the receipt
You pay the fee outside the portal and must upload the receipt.
Waiting too long
Renewal takes time, so apply before your card expires.
Travelling with an expired card
You need a valid card or a travel document to board a flight to Canada.
Ignoring a shortfall
If you are short of 730 days, get advice before you apply.
Want a second set of eyes?
We review your proof of residency before you apply.
PR card facts at a glance
Key facts from IRCC, checked October 2026.
Why clients choose Amir Ismail & Associates
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A strategy built for your profile
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PR card FAQs
How much does a PR card cost?
The fee is $50 each time you apply to renew or replace your card. You pay IRCC online and upload the receipt in the portal (IRCC, page updated 4 August 2026).
How long is a PR card valid?
A PR card is valid for 5 years in most cases. In some cases it is valid for only 1 year.
How do I apply for a PR card?
You apply online in the Permanent Residence Portal using form IMM 5444 and the document checklist IMM 5644. You also upload a photo, identity documents, proof of residency and your fee receipt.
Do I need to apply for my first PR card?
Normally no. IRCC mails your first card after you land if it has your Canadian address and a photo.
What is the residency obligation for a PR card?
You must have been in Canada for at least 730 days within the past 5 years. If you have been a PR for less than 5 years, you must show you will meet the 730 days within 5 years of becoming a PR.
What proof of residency does IRCC ask for?
IRCC asks for copies of 2 pieces of evidence that show you met the residency obligation. Our guide to Appendix A at PR card renewal explains the document list.
How long does a PR card take?
IRCC says the minimum processing time is 3 weeks, even for urgent requests, and it gives no guarantee of faster delivery. See our processing times page for how to read IRCC estimates.
What if my PR card expires while I am abroad?
You need a PR travel document to board a commercial flight to Canada. See our travel guide.
Can Amir Ismail help with my PR card renewal?
Yes. We check your days in Canada and your proof of residency before you apply. Book a Strategy Consultation to start.