Correct a mistake on your PR card

If the wrong information is on your permanent resident (PR) card, you can fix it by getting your card reissued or by applying for a new one. The method you choose depends on the reason for the error.

If you are correcting your name, the name on your PR card must match your foreign passport. There is limited space for your name on a PR card. If we shorten your name, it is not a mistake, and we will not update your PR card. For cards issued before November 21, 2015, names are limited to:

• first name: 15 letters or less
• last name: 20 letters or less

For cards issued on or after November 21, 2015, names are shortened to:

• first name: 28 letters or less
• last name: 28 letters or less

Get your card reissued

When we make a mistake or miss something on your permanent resident (PR) card, you can apply for a reissued card. However, this only applies when we make the mistake.

Apply for a new card

If you need to correct something for another reason, you have to apply for a new PR card. Other reasons may include:

• legal name change
• name change after marriage or divorce
• updated signature