Lost Your Canadian PR Card Abroad? Here’s How to Get Back to Canada

Losing your Canadian Permanent Residency (PR) card while abroad can be a nerve-racking experience. Whether you're traveling or temporarily living outside Canada, being without this critical document can complicate your journey back home. Since Canadian permanent residents are required to present a valid PR card when traveling to Canada by plane, train, bus, or boat, its absence can leave you feeling stranded and uncertain about your next steps.

Fortunately, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has put systems in place to help you return to Canada without a valid PR card. In this guide, we’ll walk you through what to do if you lose your Canadian PR card while abroad, explain the purpose and process of applying for a Permanent Resident Travel Document (PRTD), and help you prepare for a smoother return.

What is a Canadian Permanent Resident Travel Document (PRTD)?

A Permanent Resident Travel Document (PRTD) is a one-time, temporary travel document issued by IRCC to allow Canadian permanent residents to return to Canada without a valid PR card. This document is especially critical for PRs outside Canada who cannot re-enter the country through a commercial vehicle (such as an airplane) due to their missing or expired PR card.

The PRTD is typically issued as a counterfoil (visa-like sticker) placed in your passport and is valid for a single entry. Once you return to Canada, you can apply to replace your lost PR card.

Eligibility For a PRTD

Not every permanent resident qualifies for a PRTD. IRCC outlines several conditions that must be met:

  1. You must be a Canadian permanent resident.
  2. You must be outside Canada and unable to return because you don’t have a valid PR card.
  3. You must meet the residency obligation, which requires you to have been physically present in Canada for at least 730 days during the last five years.

Even if you do not meet the 730-day requirement, you may still be eligible if you meet one of the exceptions, such as accompanying a Canadian citizen spouse or working abroad for a Canadian business.

IRCC will assess your application based on your travel history, reasons for being outside Canada, and ties to the country.

Who Should Not Apply for a Permanent Resident Travel Document?

A PRTD is only for those who meet specific residency and legal criteria. You should not apply for a PRTD if:

  • You are already in Canada.
  • You are not a permanent resident.
  • You intend to renounce your permanent resident status.
  • You are inadmissible to Canada on grounds of security, criminality, or human rights violations.

In these cases, you may need to explore alternative legal or immigration options with the help of a lawyer or immigration consultant.

Requirements For a Canadian PRTD

To apply for a PRTD, you must submit several documents to IRCC. These include:

  • A Complete Application Form (IMM 5524): This form can be found on IRCC’s website and must be filled out accurately.
  • Proof of Permanent Resident Status: Include copies of your lost or expired PR card, Record of Landing (IMM 1000), or Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR).
  • Proof That You Meet the Residency Obligation: Documents such as tax returns, employment records, utility bills, or school enrollment can help establish your time in Canada.
  • Two Passport-sized Photos: Photos must meet IRCC specifications.
  • A Valid Passport: Ensure your passport is up to date and not close to expiring.
  • Supporting Documentation: This may include a police report for a stolen PR card, travel itineraries, and a personal statement explaining your situation.

Each visa office may have specific requirements or local variations, so always consult the website of the Canadian visa office responsible for your region before applying.

How to Apply for a PRTD

Here is a step-by-step guide to help you apply for a PRTD.

Step 1: Get the Application Package

Download the application guide and form Guide 5529 – Applying for a Permanent Resident Travel Document from the IRCC website. This package includes detailed instructions and the application form (IMM 5524).

Step 2: Gather All Required Documents

Compile your proof of permanent residence, residency obligation, and any supporting documentation like travel itineraries or explanations. Ensure your passport is valid and you have the required photographs.

Step 3: Pay the Application Fee

As of 2025, the fee for a PRTD application is 50 CAD. This payment must be made online through the IRCC payment portal, and a printed receipt must be included with your application.

Step 4: Submit the Application

Submit your completed application package to the visa application center (VAC) or Canadian embassy, consulate, or high commission responsible for your country. Depending on local rules, you may need to apply in person or by mail.

Step 5: Attend an Interview (if required)

IRCC may request an in-person interview at your local visa office to assess your ties to Canada and verify the information you’ve provided.

Step 6: Wait for Processing

PRTD processing times vary depending on the visa office, the complexity of your case, and the current workload. Expect processing to take anywhere from a few days to several weeks. You can check average processing times on the IRCC website.

Returning to Canada and Replacing Your PR Card

Once your PRTD is issued, you can use it to travel back to Canada. Upon arrival, you’ll need to apply for a new PR card using the IMM 5444 form. This application must be submitted from within Canada.

You’ll need to include:

  • The completed form
  • Photographs
  • Proof of residency in Canada
  • Any supporting documents requested

Processing a replacement PR card takes several weeks, so plan accordingly.

How to Prevent Losing Your PR Card in the Future

Here are some tips to help you avoid the inconvenience of losing your PR card again:

  • Always store your PR card in a secure location like a travel wallet or passport holder.
    • Keep a digital and physical copy of your PR card and other immigration documents.
  • Register with the Registration of Canadians Abroad (ROCA) before traveling, even if you're a PR. This allows consular staff to assist you in emergencies.
  • Consider applying for Canadian citizenship if you meet the requirements. This eliminates the need for a PR card and gives you access to a Canadian passport.
  • Avoid staying outside Canada too long—this can lead to difficulties proving your residency obligation or jeopardizing your PR status altogether.

Get Back to Canada With Your Canadian PRDT

While losing your Canadian PR card while abroad can be a stressful experience, you’re not alone. Thousands of Canadian permanent residents have faced the same situation and successfully navigated their way back home. By applying for a Permanent Resident Travel Document (PRTD), gathering the necessary documentation, and following the IRCC guidelines, you can return to Canada without unnecessary delays.

Staying informed and prepared is the key to a smooth journey home—and a reminder of just how valuable your Canadian permanent residency truly is.

FAQs

Can I Return to Canada Without a PR Card?

You can only return via a commercial carrier if you have a valid PR card or a Permanent Resident Travel Document. Without either, the airline or other transport company will not let you board.

What Happens if I Don’t Meet the Residency Obligation?

If you haven’t been in Canada for at least 730 days in the past five years and don’t qualify for an exception, your PR status may be at risk. You can still apply, but IRCC may issue a departure order, leading to the loss of your status unless you appeal successfully.

How Long Does a PRTD Take to Process?

Processing times vary depending on your location and the workload of the visa office. Some applications may take a few days, others several weeks. Always check with the local visa office.

What if my PR Card Was Stolen?

If your card was stolen, you should report it to local authorities and obtain a police report. Include a copy of this report in your PRTD application to explain the situation.

Can I Apply for a New PR Card from Outside Canada?

No, replacement PR cards can only be issued and mailed to addresses within Canada. The PRTD is your only route for returning to Canada legally and safely to request a new PR card.