Replacing a permanent resident card
How long will it take to process my PR card?
You can check current processing times for permanent resident cards (PR cards).
If you need your card sooner, you can apply for urgent processing. If you aren’t eligible, we will process your application normally.
See also processing times questions.
What should I do if my PR card has been lost, stolen or destroyed?
Canada’s entry requirements are changing
Permanent residents of Canada must carry and present their valid permanent resident (PR) card or permanent resident travel document when boarding a flight to Canada, or travelling to Canada on any other commercial carrier. If you do not carry your PR card or permanent resident travel document, you may not be able to board your flight, train, bus, or boat to Canada.
It is your responsibility to ensure that your PR card is still valid when you return from travel outside Canada, and to apply for a new PR card when your current card expires.
It depends on whether you are inside or outside Canada. Either way, you have to tell us what happened so we can prevent your card from being used by someone else.
Follow the instructions in the “Replace a lost, stolen or destroyed PR card” section on the page to apply for a PR card.
How do I pay the fee for my permanent resident card?
You must pay for your permanent resident card online. We do not accept other methods of payment. After you pay, print a receipt and include it with your paper application.
What should I do if my new permanent resident card has a mistake or something is missing?
If we made the mistake, you can apply for a reissued permanent resident (PR) card.
If either your given name or your surname has more than 28 letters, the name appearing on the PR card will be shortened. This is not a mistake and the card will not be reissued to change the name.
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 limited to:
- first name: 28 letters or less
- last name: 28 letters or less
Will I get my permanent resident card by mail?
I am a new permanent resident living inside Canada
Yes. If you are a new permanent resident, you will get your permanent resident (PR) card by mail.
I am already a permanent resident living inside Canada
Probably. Most permanent residents in Canada replacing or renewing their PR card will receive it by mail. However, we may ask you to pick it up at a local IRCC office. If you need to pick up your card, we will contact you to schedule an appointment. If you cannot go to your appointment, you can reschedule it with the local office. If you do not pick up your card within 180 days, we will destroy it and you will have to re-apply.
I am a permanent resident living outside of Canada
No. We do not mail PR cards outside of Canada. If you need to return to Canada and your PR card has expired or been lost or stolen, you will need to apply for a permanent resident travel document. It is only valid for one re-entry. You can apply for your PR card when you return to Canada.
How much does a permanent resident card cost?
It costs $50 per person to apply for a permanent resident (PR) card. You will need to pay the fee each time you renew or replace your PR card.
Should I submit photos with my PR card application?
Yes. Your application must include photos that meet our photo specifications. If your photos are in the wrong format, we will return your application.
When should I apply for a permanent resident card?
Canada’s entry requirements are changing
Permanent residents (PR) of Canada must carry and present their valid PR card or permanent resident travel document (PRTD) when boarding a flight to Canada, or travelling to Canada on any other commercial carrier. If you do not carry your PR card or PRTD, you may not be able to board your flight, train, bus or boat to Canada.
It is your responsibility to ensure that your PR card is still valid when you return from travel outside Canada, and to apply for a new PR card when your current card expires.
If you are a new immigrant to Canada, you do not need to apply for a permanent resident (PR) card. We will mail your card to you when you get to Canada.
You should apply for a PR card if:
- you plan to travel outside the country and will return to Canada on a commercial vehicle like an airplane, a bus, a train, or a boat;
- you did not get your PR card after you gave us your Canadian mailing address, and it has been more than 180 days since you provided your address;
- you need evidence of your PR status;
- your card was lost, stolen or destroyed and you want a new one;
- your PR card expires in less than nine months; or
- you have legally changed your name and need to update the name on your PR card.
Consult the processing times to see how long it will take to get a PR card.
How can I avoid delays or refusals in processing my permanent resident card application?
To avoid delays or a refusal, ensure that you:
- properly fill out and sign the application form(s);
- fill out Section H (Solemn Declaration) if your card was:
- lost
- stolen
- destroyed, or
- never received
- include all the documents listed on the document checklist at the end of the form
- pay online with a credit card, and
- include the proof of payment with your application.
See other processing times questions.
I was told that my permanent resident card was sent to me but I did not get it yet. What should I do?
If you did not get your PR card before six weeks have passed
If you are waiting for your PR card, but less than six weeks have passed from the time the card was mailed to you, you must wait until this time has passed.
If you did not get your PR card after six weeks have passed
If you are waiting for your PR card and six weeks have passed from the time the card was mailed to you and you did not get it, you must complete a solemn declaration. Mailing instructions are provided at the bottom of the form.
Note: if 180 days have passed since the PR card was mailed, you will have to apply for a PR card, fill in section G (solemn declaration), and include the fee payment.
Find out how long it may take for you to receive your new card.
I legally changed my name. How do I update my PR card?
You need to apply for a new PR card to change the name on your card. Make sure you include documents that support the change.
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