Permanent Resident (PR) card
Statutory definition
IRPR ss 53–58 govern the issuance, renewal, and revocation of PR cards. A PR card is issued to every person who obtains permanent residence in Canada and is valid for 5 years. IRPR s 55 requires a PR entering Canada on a commercial vehicle to produce a valid PR card. Renewal requires meeting the residency obligation during the current 5-year period.
Explanation
The PR card is the primary travel document for permanent residents returning to Canada. A PR who does not have a valid PR card and is outside Canada must apply for a Permanent Resident Travel Document (PRTD) from the nearest Canadian visa office — this is a single-entry document allowing return while a new PR card is prepared. PR card renewal requires meeting the residency obligation; if the obligation has not been met, IRCC may issue a shorter-validity renewal or refer the matter to an admissibility hearing.