PR Status and Citizenship

PR card shows that you have permanent resident status in Canada. A permanent resident has the right to get most social benefits that Canadian citizens receive, and live, work or study anywhere in Canada. A permanent resident has the right to protection under Canadian law and the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms. A permanent resident can apply for Canadian citizenship. New permanent residents don’t need to apply for a PR card, which will be mailed to you when you immigrate to Canada. Our services for a permanent resident are:

• • To renew a PR Card — To keep your permanent resident status, you must have been in Canada for at least 730 days during the last five years.

  • To replace a PR Card — If your PR card is lost, stolen or destroyed.

  • To apply for PRTD — If a permanent resident is outside Canada without a valid PR card, he/she needs to apply for a permanent resident travel document (PRTD).

  • Renouncing PR Status — It may apply to those who have not met residency obligations but would like to visit Canada.

  • Apply for Citizenship — You can apply if you: are a permanent resident; have lived in Canada for at least 3 out of the last 5 years; have filed your taxes; pass a citizenship test; prove your language skills in English or French.