What Is the Residency Obligation?
As a Canadian permanent resident, you must be physically present in Canada for at least 730 days within the last 5 years to maintain your PR status.
You may count time spent abroad only in limited cases, such as:
- Accompanying a Canadian citizen spouse or parent
- Being employed by a Canadian company abroad
- Humanitarian or compassionate grounds (rare and case-specific)
Failure to meet this obligation may result in a loss of permanent resident status.
When Should You Get a Residency Review?
We strongly recommend a residency obligation review if:
- Your PR card is expired or expiring soon
- You spent significant time outside Canada
- You are applying for PRTD from abroad
- You are preparing for citizenship and need to confirm your eligibility
- You re-entered Canada after long absence and want to renew your PR card without risk
What We Review?
At Sapra Immigration Services Inc., we assess:
- Your full travel history for the past 5 years
- Time spent in Canada with documents (leases, tax filings, job letters)
- Time abroad with supporting documents for exemptions (spousal proof, employment letters)
- Risk of refusal when applying for PR renewal, PRTD, or citizenship
We then provide a written summary confirming:
- If you meet the 730-day rule
- If you may qualify under an exemption
- What strategy or documentation is needed next
Documents We May Request
- Copies of all passports used in the last 5 years
- CBSA travel history report (if available)
- Work or school letters
- CRA notices of assessment
- Proof of residence (leases, bank statements, utility bills)
- Marriage certificate and partner’s citizenship (for exemptions)
Risk of PR Loss
If IRCC finds that you have not met your residency obligation:
- You may receive a notice of determination and risk loss of PR status
- You may appeal to the Immigration Appeal Division (IAD) within 60 days
- You may still apply for PR card renewal or PRTD — with a solid explanation and supporting documents
Our team can prepare your file to minimize risk and handle complex cases.
- 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
We may still help you retain PR if you qualify for an exemption or have strong H&C grounds.
Yes — but it requires a carefully prepared case. Do not apply blindly without reviewing your situation.
Only full days of physical presence count. Time spent on flights or at land borders does not count.
Yes. If you were accompanying a Canadian citizen spouse or parent abroad, that time counts toward the 730-day requirement.
Concerned About Losing Your Permanent Resident Status?
Before renewing your PR card, applying for a PRTD, or leaving Canada again, let us conduct a personalized residency obligation review. Our RCIC can help protect your status and prepare your next steps with confidence.