Permanent Resident Card Documents
Law Office of Kalina & Tejpal · Updated October 6, 2026
The correct documents depend on whether you are renewing a PR card, replacing a lost or damaged card, correcting information, or obtaining a first card. An expiring card and a concern about permanent-resident status are different issues.
Choose the correct process
Follow IRCC’s current PR-card application instructions and Guide 5445. A new permanent resident’s first card is usually handled through the confirmation process when the required address and photo are provided; do not automatically file a renewal application. If a separate application is needed, use the applicable checklist and online or approved alternate-format instructions.
Identity and application records
The completed application and required checklist for the relevant process.
An accepted passport, travel document or other primary identity evidence under the instructions.
The existing card copy for renewal, or the required evidence and explanation for a lost, stolen or damaged card.
Requested residence, work or education history, and accurate absences for the applicable period.
Proof of residency-obligation compliance and any supporting evidence for qualifying time abroad.
A photo meeting the correct specifications, fee receipt, and any applicable name-change, translation or representative documents.
These are document groups, not a universal requirement to provide every item in the old office list. A driver’s licence, birth certificate, tax assessment or landing record may have a particular role, but should not be treated as mandatory in every case merely because it appears on a generic list.
Use PR-photo specifications, not visa-photo dimensions
The former 35 mm by 45 mm instruction was incorrect for printed PR photos. IRCC’s current PR-photo page specifies 50 mm by 70 mm for printed photos and separate dimensions, file limits and information for digital submissions. Online applications currently use one digital photo with the required photographer/back-of-photo information; paper instructions differ. Follow the chosen route’s current specifications.
Residency obligation is a separate legal assessment
IRPA section 28 generally requires 730 qualifying days in the relevant five-year period. Certain time outside Canada may count. For a person who has been a permanent resident for less than five years, the statutory assessment considers whether the obligation can be met in the first five-year period. Do not assume that every day abroad is excluded or that a card’s expiry date determines compliance.
If the travel history raises a residency concern, obtain advice before relying on a simple date count. The evidence for any claimed overseas credit or humanitarian considerations must address the actual statutory rules.
Travel and an expired card
IRCC explains that expiry of a PR card does not itself end PR status. However, returning to Canada by commercial carrier requires the appropriate valid documentation. A person abroad without a valid card may need a permanent resident travel document, not an in-Canada card application. Check the current travel-document instructions before planning a return.
Related reading
Speak with counsel
Contact the Law Office of Kalina & Tejpal or call 416-900-6999 to discuss the appropriate application and supporting evidence.
This article provides general information only, not legal advice. Follow the current official checklist and any instructions issued for your application.