Re-entering Canada with an Expired or Lost PR Card

You must have a valid PR card or a single-entry Permanent Resident Travel Document (PRTD) in order to return to Canada via commercial transportation such a bus, train, aeroplane, or boat. Commercial workers will refuse to let you board if you do not have one of these two documents. All commercial transportation companies are subject to this rule, which is enforced by Canadian immigration authorities.

You should renew your PR card before departing Canada if it is about to expire and you intend to travel. PR cards cannot be renewed overseas; they can only be renewed domestically.

Why You Need a PR Card

Since their Permanent Resident (PR) card is the formal document proving their legal status, Canadian permanent residents should ideally be obliged to show it when they return to Canada. However, some people could find themselves abroad with an expired PR card, or in other situations like unexpected travel, delayed renewal, or lost PR card.

Driving across the Canadian border

Compared to the other options, it will be simpler to return to Canada if you are in the United States without a valid PR card. A private vehicle, such as a car, truck, or motorcycle, that you either own, borrow, or rent, can be used to cross the border from the United States. Public buses and other commercial transports are not included in this.

Even if you do not have a valid PR card, Canadian officials will check your status as a permanent resident at the border and may grant admission if they so choose. You can drive to the Canadian border after flying into the United States if you are not in the country. However, this alternative is neither highly recommended nor advised in light of the present immigration environment.

Getting a Permanent Resident Travel Document (PRTD)

In contrast to renewing your PR Card within Canada, you must apply for a PRTD from outside of Canada if you must travel back to Canada by bus, train, boat or aeroplane. A PRTD attests to your status as a permanent resident and permits re-entry once, or occasionally more than once.

A valid passport, documentation attesting to your ties to Canada, and proof of permanent resident status—such as an expired PR card or a Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR)—are required in order to apply. These could include bills, a leasing agreement, or correspondence with a name and mailing address. The application form must also be filled out, and a $50 processing fee must be paid. Processing fees are subject to change, so be sure to check the Government of Canada website. It is recommended to apply early with complete, if not more, documents because processing periods vary depending on your location and the backlog or volume of applications at the visa office.

U.S. Citizens Who Are Canadian Permanent Residents

Your re-entry is quite simple if you are a U.S. citizen and a permanent resident of Canada. Without a Canadian PR card or PRTD, you can enter Canada by land, air, or sea using your U.S. passport. Nonetheless, in the event that border security officers request it, it is still crucial to have documentation of your status as a Canadian permanent resident, such as a COPR or an expired PR card.

Once You Are Back in Canada

If your prior PR card has expired, been misplaced, or never arrived, you should apply for a new one as soon as you get back to Canada. Applications might take up to several weeks to process, and they must be submitted from within Canada.

It can be distressing to travel without a current PR card, but it is possible with careful preparation and can be completely prevented if you renew your card before your trip. Applying for a new PR card is essential, regardless of how you enter Canada again.

We can assist you if you are currently outside of Canada and your PR card has expired or been lost. If you need help getting a PRTD or renewing your PR card once you return to the country, get in touch with us.