What Happens If You Return to Canada with an Expired PR Card?

Learn the steps to re-enter Canada if your PR card is expired, including applying for a Permanent Resident Travel Document (PRTD).

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If you return to Canada with an expired PR card, you may face difficulties at the border. To avoid issues, apply for a Permanent Resident Travel Document (PRTD) from outside Canada. This document allows you to re-enter Canada as a PR. Ensure your application is complete and submitted well in advance of your planned travel to avoid potential delays. Remember, maintaining your PR status requires you to be in Canada for at least 730 days within a five-year period.

FAQs & Answers

  1. What should I do if my PR card expires while I am outside Canada? You should apply for a Permanent Resident Travel Document (PRTD) from outside Canada to allow you to return as a permanent resident.
  2. How long must I live in Canada to maintain my PR status? You must be physically present in Canada for at least 730 days within a five-year period to maintain your permanent resident status.
  3. Can I return to Canada without a valid PR card? Returning without a valid PR card can cause issues at the border, so it is recommended to apply for a PRTD before traveling.