Key takeaways
- Your PR card is mailed to a Canadian address after you land
- Your first card is free if IRCC has your photo and address within 180 days of landing
- Most cards are valid for five years; your PR status doesn’t expire with the card
- To keep PR status, live in Canada at least 730 days in every five years
- Travelling without a valid card? You may need a PR travel document to fly back
Getting your first card
When you land, the border officer confirms your permanent residence. Your PR card is produced afterwards and mailed to your Canadian address. If you landed without a Canadian address, give it to IRCC online as soon as you have one.
The 180-day address rule
Your first PR card is free if you send IRCC your photo and Canadian address within 180 days of becoming a permanent resident. After that, you’ll have to apply and pay for the card. Update your address whenever you move, too.
Tip: Use an address where you can reliably receive mail, even a friend’s or relative’s, if you’re still in temporary housing.
Card validity and your status
Most PR cards are valid for five years. The expiry date is for the card only: your permanent resident status continues as long as you meet the residency obligation and don’t lose status another way.
Apply to renew a few months before your card expires, since processing takes time. Check IRCC’s current processing times.
The residency obligation
To keep permanent resident status, you must be physically present in Canada for at least 730 days (two years) within every five-year period. The days don’t need to be continuous. Some time abroad can count, for example accompanying a Canadian citizen spouse.
Keep a simple record of your travel dates. You’ll need them for renewals and for citizenship later.
Travelling outside Canada
- Airlines usually need to see a valid PR card before you board a flight to Canada
- If your card has expired or is lost while you’re abroad, apply for a permanent resident travel document (PRTD) to return
- Plan renewals before long trips, not during them
General information, not legal advice. Check current rules on IRCC.
