PR card renewal, step by step
Updated
What is a PR card, and what does it show?
A quick, sourced answer: what the card is for, what IRCC prints on it, how long it lasts, and what changes the day it expires.
What a PR card is
IRCC's own words: "A permanent resident (PR) card shows that you're a permanent resident of Canada. You need it to return to Canada after travelling."1
It is a status document, not the status itself: it is "automatically issued upon permanent residence being granted", and its job is to let you "demonstrate PR status to facilitate a return to Canada by commercial carrier."2
Your first card is automatic if you give IRCC your photo and a Canadian address within 180 days of becoming a permanent resident. After that, you apply yourself for a renewal or a replacement.2
What is on the front and back
IRCC describes the photo on the card as "a laser-engraved primary photograph, as well as a secondary photograph presented in a transparent window."3
On the back, a Unique Serial Number is "used for tracking the card if it is lost or stolen", alongside a bar code that "contains the photo and personal data of the cardholder." That data is encrypted and "may only be read using software that is accessible to Canadian officials."3
Note: Your PR card number
The number in the top right corner on the back of the card is the PR card number. It starts with two letters, for example RA0302123456 or PA0123456.4
IRCC does not publish a full map of every field on the card, so beyond the card number this page does not guess at exact positions. The card's security features "comply with International Civil Aviation Organization requirements."3
How long a PR card is valid
A PR card is valid for "five years from the date of issue" in the standard case.2
| Length | When issued |
|---|---|
| 5 years | The standard card, on a first application, renewal or replacement. |
| 1 year | Exceptional circumstances only, under the regulations, on a renewal or replacement application. |
"All versions of the Permanent Resident Card are valid until their date of expiry", and IRCC's advice is direct: check that date before you travel.3
When your card expires
One paragraph, in IRCC's own words: "When your permanent resident (PR) card expires, you still have your PR status and can stay in Canada. You may still need your valid PR card for some services in your province. If you leave the country, you'll need a valid PR card to return to Canada by commercial vehicle. If you want to travel outside Canada and don't have a valid PR card, you can apply to renew or replace your card."6
Renew if your card will expire in less than 9 months, or if it has already expired.7
Using it to travel
If you're travelling in a commercial vehicle, you need a valid PR card, along with a valid passport or travel document, to return to Canada. If you're travelling in a private vehicle, you can use your PR card or other documents to return to Canada.8
Important: Abroad without a valid card
You can apply for a permanent resident travel document (PRTD) from outside Canada. It can only be requested while you are abroad.8
Not your UCI or application number
The card number on the back (two letters, then digits) is not your UCI. Your UCI has 8 or 10 digits only, and IRCC prints it on every document it sends you, the PR card included.
Note: Don't mix them up
PR card number: 2 letters then 10 or 7 numbers, top right on the back, one per card. UCI: 8 or 10 digits only, the same number across every IRCC application you make.4
When to get help
None of this changes if your situation is complicated, for example a question about your status, a long time outside Canada, or a card that never arrived. Speak to a licensed professional before you rely on anything here for that.
Note: Who can advise you
Only lawyers and paralegals in a Canadian law society, Quebec notaries, and consultants who are members of the College of Immigration and Citizenship Consultants can charge you to represent you. prcard.ca explains IRCC's own instructions; it doesn't give advice on your case.9
Card expiring in the next few months?
The renewal pack turns your situation into every IMM 5444 answer, in portal order, with your files renamed and ready. The interview is free.
Quick answers
What is a PR card?
A card that shows you're a permanent resident of Canada. IRCC says you need it to return to Canada after travelling.
How long is a PR card valid?
Usually 5 years from the date of issue. In exceptional circumstances, IRCC issues a 1-year card instead.
Where is my PR card number?
Top right corner on the back of the card. It starts with two letters, for example RA0302123456 or PA0123456.
What happens when my PR card expires?
You keep your PR status and can stay in Canada. You'll need a valid card to return by commercial carrier if you travel, so renew before you go.
Do I need my PR card to stay in Canada?
No. IRCC is clear that an expired card does not end your PR status; some provincial services may still ask for a valid one.
Is my PR card number the same as my UCI?
No. The card number is two letters then digits, printed once per card. Your UCI is 8 or 10 digits and stays the same across every IRCC application.
Keep reading
Sources
- 1.canada.ca, permanent resident card. canada.ca
- 2.canada.ca, PR card departmental policy. canada.ca
- 3.canada.ca, Permanent Resident Card (video transcript). canada.ca
- 4.IRCC Client Application Status, Identification number. services3.cic.gc.ca
- 5.canada.ca, PR card renewal, replacement. canada.ca
- 6.IRCC Help Centre, What happens if my PR card expires?. ircc.canada.ca
- 7.canada.ca, get, renew or replace a PR card. canada.ca
- 8.canada.ca, travelling outside Canada as a permanent resident. canada.ca
- 9.canada.ca, Learn about representatives. canada.ca