What Is a PRTD?
The Permanent Resident Travel Document (PRTD) is issued to Canadian permanent residents who are outside Canada and do not have a valid PR card, allowing them to return to Canada via a commercial carrier (flight, train, bus, or boat).
This document is temporary and is typically valid for one-time re-entry.
Who Needs a PRTD?
You need a PRTD if:
- You are a permanent resident of Canada
- You are outside Canada
- Your PR card is expired, lost, stolen, or not in your possession
- You plan to return to Canada by commercial means
You cannot apply for a PR card from outside Canada.
Eligibility to Apply
To qualify for a PRTD, you must:
- Still hold permanent resident status
- Meet the residency obligation (730 days in Canada in the past 5 years), or
- Be able to justify your absence based on accompanying a Canadian family member, employment with a Canadian company, or humanitarian reasons
If IRCC finds you do not meet the requirements, you may lose your PR status.
Documents Required
You must apply to a visa application center (VAC) outside Canada. Common documents include:
- Copy of expired or missing PR card
- Valid passport
- Proof of permanent residence status (e.g., COPR, landing documents)
- Proof of time spent in Canada (entry/exit stamps, leases, tax documents)
- Explanation and documentation if you do not meet the 730-day requirement
Additional forms may include:
- IMM 5524 (Application for a PRTD)
- IMM 5476 (Use of Representative, if applicable)
Processing Time & IRCC Fees
- IRCC Fee: $50 CAD
- Processing Time: Varies by country and local visa office (typically 2–8 weeks)
- Delivery: The PRTD is affixed to your passport
How We Help?
At Sapra Immigration Services Inc., we assist with:
- Assessing your eligibility to apply for a PRTD
- Preparing strong documentation for residency obligation or humanitarian justification
- Drafting supporting letters or explanations
- Liaising with visa offices if needed
- Providing guidance if IRCC challenges your PR status
- Step 1: Determine Eligibility
- Step 2: Create Your Express Entry Profile
- Step 3: Gather Necessary Documents
- Step 4: Receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA)
- Step 5: Prepare Your Application
- Step 6: Submit Your Complete Application within timeframe
- Step 7: Respond to Additional Information Requests
- Step 8: Receive Your Decision
- Step 9: If Approved, Receive Your Confirmation of Permanent Residence (CoPR) Document
Only if you travel by private vehicle through a land border. Commercial travel requires a valid PR card or PRTD.
No. PR cards are only issued within Canada. If you are abroad, you must apply for a PRTD.
You can still apply with supporting documents explaining why you were outside Canada. If refused, you may appeal to the Immigration Appeal Division (IAD).
Yes, you may reapply or file an appeal, depending on your situation. We can advise you on the best course of action.
Stranded Abroad Without a Valid PR Card?
We can help you return to Canada by preparing a strong and accurate PRTD application. Do not risk losing your permanent resident status. Let our RCIC guide you.