Your relatives can live, study and work in Canada if they become permanent residents of Canada. You can sponsor certain relatives to come to Canada if you’re at least 18 years old and a:
Immigration, citizenship & Visa consultants
Title: Can I Leave Canada While Waiting for My PR Card? Risks & Solutions Explained
Author: Sanjay Prasher (SP), M.B.A, CICC
Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant (RCIC) | Member, College of Immigration & Citizenship Consultants (CICC)
Licensed by the Immigration Consultants of Canada Regulatory Council (ICCRC) | Gold Member, Canadian Association of Professional Immigration Consultants (CAPIC)
Becoming a Canadian permanent resident (PR) is a thrilling milestone, but it comes with responsibilities, especially regarding international travel. A burning question for many new or renewing PRs is: “Can I leave Canada while waiting for my PR card?”
The short answer? Yes—but with caveats. Let’s unpack the risks, rules, and smart strategies to ensure your journey doesn’t jeopardize your status.
Airlines, cruise lines, and commercial transporters require a valid PR card to let you board. Without it, you risk being stranded abroad.
If you must return urgently, you’ll need a Permanent Resident Travel Document (PRTD)—a process that takes days or weeks and costs $50.
Extended absences could impact your PR status if you’re already close to falling short of the 730-day residency requirement.
A PRTD is a single-entry visa issued by Canadian embassies abroad. Here’s how to apply:
Step 1: Gather Documents
Completed IMM 5444 form
Passport, proof of PR status (e.g., COPR), 2 passport photos
Proof of Canadian residency (utility bills, lease agreements)
Step 2: Submit Application
Online: Use the Permanent Residence Portal.
Paper: Mail to a Visa Application Centre (VAC).
Step 3: Await Approval
Processing times: 2–8 weeks (varies by country).
Urgent requests: Submit proof of travel within 5 days (e.g., flight tickets).
⚠️ Note: PRTDs are not replacements for PR cards—apply for a new card once back in Canada.
If you’re in the U.S., drive to Canada in a private car. You’ll need:
Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR)
Passport, driver’s license, or other ID
Prepare for CBSA questions about your residency.
| Document | Processing Time |
|---|---|
| New/Renewed PR Card | 25–71 days |
| PRTD | 2–8 weeks (varies by country) |
Pro Tip: Avoid travel during PR card renewal. Delays could leave you stuck abroad.
No. As a PR, you cannot re-enter Canada with a visitor visa or Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA). These are for temporary residents only.
Delay Travel if possible.
Consult an RCIC for urgent solutions.
Apply Early—submit renewal applications 6 months before expiry.
Yes, but ensure you have a valid PR card or PRTD to return.
Typically 2–8 weeks. Urgent cases may expedite with proof (e.g., medical emergencies).
Apply for a PRTD. Maintain residency records to avoid status issues.
No. IRCC only delivers PR cards to Canadian addresses.
While travel might be tempting, staying in Canada until you receive your PR card:
Avoids PRTD hassles.
Ensures smooth delivery to your Canadian address.
Protects your residency obligations.
Navigating PR travel rules can feel overwhelming. At CTIVCI, we guide clients through:
PRTD applications
PR card renewals
Residency compliance
Contact Sanjay Prasher, RCIC, for a Free Consultation:
“Don’t let travel plans risk your Canadian status—plan wisely.”
Your relatives can live, study and work in Canada if they become permanent residents of Canada. You can sponsor certain relatives to come to Canada if you’re at least 18 years old and a:
Are you a Canadian citizen or permanent resident dreaming of reuniting with your parents or grandparents for extended stays? The Super Visa Canada is your solution! This long-term visa allows loved ones to visit for up to 5 years per entry and stay in Canada for nearly a decade with renewals. In this guide, we’ll break down the 2024-2025 Super Visa requirements, fees, processing times, insurance, and FAQs to simplify your journey.
