Canada Permanent Resident (PR)

A person who has been awarded permanent residence status by immigration to Canada is known as a Canadian permanent resident.

Many of the advantages enjoyed by Canadian citizens are also available to permanent residents. They must, however, fulfil specific conditions, such as the residency obligation, in order to keep their status, unlike citizens.

Benefits of Canadian PR status

For those looking to start a new chapter in their lives, becoming a Canadian Permanent Resident (PR) provides access to a host of benefits. It provides access to Canada’s top-notch healthcare and educational institutions, the freedom to live and work anywhere in its vast and diverse terrain, and the chance for financial success through a range of job choices.

Additionally, having PR status opens the door to citizenship in Canada, facilitating a more thorough assimilation into the country’s diverse community. Additionally, it allows family members to be sponsored, guaranteeing that loved ones can benefit from Canada’s stability and advantages.

A visit to our page Benefits of acquiring a Canadian Permanent Residency (PR) will give anyone interested in these chances a thorough grasp of why acquiring Canadian PR is a portal to a new world of options rather than merely a change in legal status.

What is a Permanent Residence Card?

People who have been awarded permanent residence status in Canada are officially issued a Permanent Residence Card (PR Card) by the Canadian government. When they enter and exit the nation, it acts as documentation of their status.

Permanent Residence Card Renewal

While some PR cards are only valid for a year, the majority of them are valid for five years. Within six months of their card’s expiration, permanent residents are encouraged by the Canadian government to seek to renew their card and keep note of when it expires.

What is a Permanent Resident Travel Document (PRTD)?

If a permanent resident does not have a valid PR card and is outside of Canada and wants to enter, they can apply for a permanent resident travel document (PRTD). The PRTD is typically good for one entry into Canada, so the permanent resident can come before submitting an application for a new PR card or renewing an existing one.

Canadian Permanent Residency Obligations

A person must fulfil a residency requirement in order to keep their status as a permanent resident of Canada. A person’s actual presence within Canada for a predetermined period of time is referred to as their residence duty. A person must be physically present in Canada for at least 730 days within a five-year period in order to meet Canada’s residency requirement for permanent residents, unless they qualify for one of numerous exceptions.

From Permanent Resident to Canadian Citizen

For foreigners residing in Canada, obtaining citizenship is an important milestone. People must first have proper permanent resident status in order to start this adventure. This fundamental prerequisite guarantees that candidates are legitimate residents of Canada.

But retaining permanent resident status is only one step on the road to citizenship. Residency requirements for permanent residents who wish to apply for citizenship in Canada are different from those required to renew their status. These requirements are intended to make sure that candidates have a close bond with Canada and have lived there for a significant period of time, contributing to its culture and comprehending its values.

Our guide, How to Get Canadian Citizenship, provides information on eligibility requirements, key considerations for potential applicants, and other components of the application process for people who are interested in learning more about the requirements and process for becoming a citizen of Canada. A crucial first step in comprehending the process of obtaining Canadian citizenship and getting ready for the trip ahead is to consult this resource.

Renouncing permanent resident status

When a Canadian permanent resident’s PR card expires, they do not immediately lose their status. Only a formal procedure can result in the loss of a permanent resident’s status. An application to voluntarily give up permanent residence status may be submitted by anyone who wishes to do so. If someone plans to visit Canada but knows they haven’t fulfilled their residence requirement, this could save them time.

Is permanent residence the same as citizenship?

Permanent residents in Canada are not Canadian citizens. Among other privileges enjoyed by citizens, Canadian permanent residents are not eligible to apply for a Canadian passport. In contrast to Canadian citizens, a PR must also meet specific standards in order to maintain their status.

Can Canadian permanent residence be revoked?

The Canadian government may revoke permanent resident status for one of the following reasons:

·       serious criminality;

·       if an individual achieved PR status by means of misrepresentation; or

·       they are unable to meet their residency obligations

How long is Canadian permanent residence valid?

Permanent residency status in Canada is perpetual, in contrast to temporary status. A Canadian PR will keep their status as a PR as long as they fulfil their residency criteria and the government does not cancel it.

Can a permanent resident leave Canada?

A permanent resident can leave Canada at any time but must continue to meet their physical presence obligations.

How can I become a Canadian permanent resident?

There are many immigration pathways that will enable a person to become a Canadian permanent resident. For example, permanent residence can be achieved through economic immigration, business immigration, sponsorship, or refugee/humanitarian programs.

Complete our free online assessment to find out if you’re eligible for Canadian immigration.