Apply for, renew or replace a PR card: About the process
Returning to Canada without a permanent resident (PR) card
You need a valid PR card to return to Canada by plane, train, bus or boat.
What to do if you don’t have a valid PR card or your card is about to expire
- If you’re outside Canada: apply for a Permanent Resident Travel Document (PRTD) to return to Canada
- If you want to leave Canada: renew your PR card before you leave
- If you don’t get your card in time, apply for a PRTD from outside Canada
Fees
PR card: $50
Processing time ?
Renew or replace: Error loading the number of days. Try again.
New PR card: Error loading the number of days. Try again.
Travelling with your PR card
Permanent residents must have a valid permanent resident card (PR card) or permanent resident travel document (PRTD) to return to Canada by plane, train, bus or boat. Without one, you may not be able to board.
Your PR card needs to be valid when you show it. If your card expires, you will have to apply for a new one. You are still a permanent resident if your card expires.

Top questions about the permanent resident card
- What happens if my PR card expires while I am outside Canada?
- I’m a new permanent resident of Canada. Do I need to apply for a PR card?
- How long will it take to process my PR card?
- I need to leave Canada and I do not have a PR card. Can I later re-enter Canada?
- How do I renew my permanent resident card?
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