PR process — card application

PR Card Application Step-by-Step 2026 — Renewal + Replacement Guide

Renewing or replacing a Permanent Resident card is one of the most common PR process tasks. This page walks through the full application — eligibility, residence obligation evidence, photo specifications, fees, processing times, and how to avoid the most common refusal grounds.

When you need to apply

First PR card (after landing)

Issued automatically by IRCC after you provide photo + signature post-landing. No separate application form needed for first PR card. See Landing at Pearson for landing day process.

Renewal (5-year cycle)

When current card expires or has 6 months or less remaining. Use IMM 5444 form.

Replacement (lost/stolen/damaged)

When card lost, stolen, or damaged. Use IMM 5444 + Solemn Declaration (IMM 5009).

Eligibility (residence obligation)

To renew/replace PR card, you must meet the 730-day residence obligation under IRPA s.28:

Physically present in Canada for 730+ days in past 5 years, OR
Accompanying Canadian-citizen spouse abroad (days count), OR
Working full-time for Canadian business abroad (days count), OR
Accompanying PR parent meeting one of above (for minors)

Step-by-step online application

Step 1: Gather documents

Current PR card (or notice of lost/stolen if replacement)
Passport (current + valid)
Two passport-style photos meeting IRCC specifications (see below)
Residence obligation evidence (see below)
Signature card (IRCC system provides instructions)
Fee payment ready (CAD $50)

Step 2: Photo specifications

IRCC has STRICT photo requirements:

Photo size: 50mm x 70mm (2" x 2.75")
Face: 31mm-36mm from chin to crown
Plain white/off-white background
Neutral facial expression, mouth closed
No hats, sunglasses, or head coverings (religious exceptions)
Recent (within 6 months)
Professional photographer recommended — they know IRCC specs
Two identical photos required

Step 3: Residence obligation evidence

Document 730+ days physical presence in past 5 years:

Passport stamps + travel history — every entry/exit from Canada
Canadian employment records — T4s, paystubs, employment letters
Canadian tax returns for each year (NOA from CRA)
Canadian residence proof — lease, mortgage statements, utility bills, property tax
Canadian school records (if applicable — your own or children's)
Canadian healthcare records — OHIP/MSP/etc.
Canadian banking activity — bank statements showing Canada-based transactions
Canadian phone bills + addresses

The more comprehensive your evidence, the smoother the application. Officer wants to see a clear pattern of Canadian residence.

Step 4: Complete IMM 5444

Online portal walks you through the form:

Personal information (name, date of birth, UCI)
Marital status + spouse/CLP information
Children
Address (current Canadian address)
Travel history (in/out of Canada in past 5 years)
Employment history
Other PR/citizenship status (if you have other countries' status)

Step 5: Pay fee + submit

Online: pay CAD $50 via credit card. Submit application. Receive submission confirmation.

Step 6: IRCC processes

Standard processing: 60-90 calendar days
If issues: IRCC requests additional documents (extends timeline)
If refusal: appeals options (IAD for some scenarios)

Step 7: Receive new PR card

Mailed to your Canadian address. Verify spelling + photo accuracy. Sign the back. Keep safe.

Family members applying together

Family members each file separately (each with own IMM 5444 + photos + fee). Can be submitted in batch for processing efficiency but each is separate case.

Urgent processing

For genuine emergencies (medical, business, family event abroad), submit separate urgent processing request with documented justification. IRCC may prioritize to 2-4 weeks. Not guaranteed. See PR Card Processing 2026 for urgent details.

Common PR card application mistakes

Photos not meeting IRCC specifications — application returned
Insufficient residence obligation evidence
Inaccurate travel history (forgotten trips)
Wrong fee or missing payment
Outdated forms (use current IRCC version)
Applying immediately at expiry (no buffer for processing)
Letting card expire while planning international travel

FAQ

When should I apply for PR card renewal?

When your current card has 6 months or less remaining (or it's already expired). Renewing 6 months early gives buffer for processing (60-90 days). If currently expired, file ASAP if you plan to travel internationally.

Can I apply online?

Yes — since 2022, PR card applications are filed via IRCC online portal. Most PR card transactions are now online. Paper application still available but slower.

What residence obligation evidence do I need?

Documents proving 730+ days physical presence in Canada in past 5 years: passport stamps + travel history, Canadian employment records (T4s, paystubs), Canadian residence (lease/mortgage, utility bills), Canadian tax returns, Canadian school records (if applicable). The more comprehensive, the better.

What if I'm short of 730 days?

Depending on shortfall + reason, options include: H&C consideration in application, residence obligation appeal at IAD if refused, accept reduction (if minor) + provide explanation. Significant breach (e.g., 400 days) typically results in refusal unless strong H&C grounds. See PR card refused page.

How much does it cost?

CAD $50 processing fee. Pay online when submitting application. If applying for multiple family members, fee applies per applicant.

PR card application support

Halani Immigration Services Inc. (RCIC-IRB R711322) handles PR card renewals, replacements, urgent processing requests. Free 15-min review.

Free PR Card Review →

PR Card Application Step-by-Step