Permanent Resident Card
Permanent residents who need to prove their status and re-enter Canada by commercial transport.
The Permanent Resident Card is a Canadian settlement & citizenship visa. This guide covers who it's for, the key eligibility criteria, the indicative 2025 cost (~CA$50) and processing time (~1-2 months for a first card; renewals can take longer), the route to permanent residence, common pitfalls and FAQs.
Who the Permanent Resident Card is for
Permanent residents who need to prove their status and re-enter Canada by commercial transport.
Confirms existing PR status; maintaining residency days leads to citizenship eligibility.
Permanent Resident Card - eligibility criteria
- Be a permanent resident of Canada
- Meet the residency obligation (730 days in 5 years)
- Be physically in Canada to apply
- Provide acceptable photos and identity documents
- Not have lost or renounced PR status
Permanent Resident Card cost & processing time (2025)
The indicative government fee for the Permanent Resident Card (Canada) is ~CA$50, with an indicative processing time of ~1-2 months for a first card; renewals can take longer. Figures are for 2025 and may change - confirm at IRCC (canada.ca).
| Type | Settlement |
|---|---|
| Where you apply | Online or by mail to IRCC from inside Canada |
| Length of stay | Card valid 5 years (status is ongoing) |
| Work rights | Full work rights (as a permanent resident) |
| Study rights | Full study rights (as a permanent resident) |
| Government fee | ~CA$50 |
| Processing time | ~1-2 months for a first card; renewals can take longer |
| Route to PR | Confirms existing PR status; maintaining residency days leads to citizenship eligibility. |
Pathway & next steps
Confirms existing PR status; maintaining residency days leads to citizenship eligibility.
Many applicants also compare Citizenship · Canadian Citizenship (Grant), Express Entry · Express Entry (Economic Immigration System). Run a free VisaChief check to see which Canadian route best fits your profile, then prepare an application reviewed by a registered migration agency in our partner network.
Common Permanent Resident Card pitfalls we fix
Permanent Resident Card - frequently asked questions
How much does the Permanent Resident Card cost?
The Permanent Resident Card government fee is ~CA$50. Figures are indicative for 2025; always confirm current fees at IRCC (canada.ca) before applying.
How long does the Permanent Resident Card take to process?
Indicative processing time is ~1-2 months for a first card; renewals can take longer. Actual timeframes vary with caseload, completeness and your circumstances.
Does the Permanent Resident Card lead to permanent residence?
Confirms existing PR status; maintaining residency days leads to citizenship eligibility.
Can I work on the Permanent Resident Card?
Work rights: Full work rights (as a permanent resident).
Who can apply for the Permanent Resident Card?
Permanent residents who need to prove their status and re-enter Canada by commercial transport.
Sources & official references
This guide is compiled from official Canada government sources and is updated periodically. Eligibility, fees and processing times change - always confirm the current rules with the issuing authority before you apply:
- IRCC (canada.ca) - official Canada immigration authority