Losing your Permanent Resident (PR) card can be stressful, especially if you have upcoming travel plans. PR card is proof of your status in Canada and is required to re-enter the country. If you find yourself in this situation, don’t panic! You can take clear steps to resolve the issue and continue your travels.
Step 1: Report the Lost or Stolen PR Card
If you lose your PR card or it gets stolen, the first thing you should do is report it. This helps prevent fraud and misuse. Here’s what to do:
- Fill out the Solemn Declaration Concerning a Lost, Stolen, Destroyed, or Never-Received Permanent Resident Card form (IMM 5451).
- Submit the form to IRCC.
- Keep a copy of the form for your records.
Reporting the loss is essential because someone else could try to use your PR card illegally. Once it’s reported, it becomes invalid.
Step 2: Apply for a New PR Card
To replace your lost or stolen PR card, you must apply for a new one as soon as possible. Here’s how:
1. Download and Complete the PR Card Application (IMM 5444)
- You can find the application form on the IRCC website.
- Fill it out carefully to avoid delays.
2. Gather Required Documents
You will need to include several documents with your application, such as:
- A copy of your passport or another travel document.
- Two recent passport-sized photos that meet IRCC’s photo specifications.
- A copy of your old PR card (if you have one).
- Proof of your residence in Canada, such as utility bills, tax documents, or rental agreements.
3. Pay the Processing Fee
- The PR card replacement fee is $50 CAD.
- Payment can be made online through the IRCC website.
4. Submit Your Application
- Mail your application package to the correct IRCC processing center.
- Double-check that all required documents are included to avoid processing delays.
Processing times can take several weeks, so if you need to travel soon, you may have to apply for a temporary solution.
Step 3: Apply for a Permanent Resident Travel Document (PRTD)
If you are outside Canada and don’t have your PR card, you won’t be able to board a flight back to Canada. Instead, you must apply for a Permanent Resident Travel Document (PRTD).
How to Apply for a PRTD
Download and Complete the PRTD Application (IMM 5524)
Available on the IRCC website.
Prepare Supporting Documents
- Passport copy (including pages with stamps and visas).
- Proof of PR status (copy of your lost PR card, Confirmation of Permanent Residence, or landing papers).
- Travel itinerary or plane tickets.
- Proof of residency in Canada (tax documents, rental agreements, employment records, bank statements, etc.).
Pay the Processing Fee
- The PRTD application fee is $50 CAD.
Submit the Application to a Visa Office
- Locate the nearest Canadian visa office or embassy and apply there.
PRTD processing times vary depending on location, but in urgent cases, you can request expedited processing. Keep in mind that some visa offices may experience delays, so apply as soon as possible.
Step 4: What to Do While Waiting?
If you’re inside Canada and waiting for a new PR card:
- You cannot travel outside Canada unless you have a PRTD to return.
- Regularly check the status of your PR card application online.
- If it’s urgent, you can request urgent processing through IRCC, but you must provide proof of your travel plans.
If you’re outside Canada, waiting for a PRTD:
- Stay in touch with the visa office handling your application.
- Avoid booking non-refundable flights until you receive your PRTD.
- If necessary, contact the visa office for updates on processing delays.
Preventing Future Issues
To avoid problems in the future, consider these tips:
- Always keep your PR card in a safe place when traveling.
- Renew your PR card at least six months before it expires.
- If you travel frequently, apply for a PR card with a longer validity (up to 5 years).
- Use a secure wallet or passport holder to protect your important documents.
- Keep digital and physical copies of your PR card and important documents in case of emergency.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I leave Canada without my PR card?
Yes, you can leave Canada, but you will need a PRTD to return by plane, train, bus, or boat. Without a valid PR card or PRTD, airlines will not allow you to board.
2. How long does it take to get a PRTD?
Processing times vary by country, but it usually takes a few weeks. If urgent, you can request expedited processing, but approval is not guaranteed.
3. Can I apply for a PR card from outside Canada?
No, you can only apply for a PR card while in Canada. If you are outside Canada, you must apply for a PRTD to return.
4. What happens if my PR card expires while I’m outside Canada?
If your PR card expires while you’re abroad, you must apply for a PRTD before returning to Canada. Once back, you should renew your PR card as soon as possible.
5. Is there a way to track my PR card application?
Yes! You can check the status of your PR card application online through the IRCC website.
Final Thoughts
Losing your PR card is inconvenient, but it’s not the end of the world! By following the right steps, you can replace it or apply for a PRTD if you’re outside Canada. Just make sure to act quickly, follow the correct procedures, and always have a backup plan when traveling.
If you’re in a rush, apply for a PRTD as soon as possible.
