How do I replace my permanent resident (PR) card?

If your permanent resident (PR) card is lost, stolen, expired, or expiring soon, you can apply for a new card online or by mail.

You should also replace your PR card if your information has changed. For example, you've changed your legal name.

To apply for a PR card, you must be in Canada. And you must stay in Canada until your PR card arrives.

Do I need a PR card?

Your status as a of Canada does not depend on having a PR card. You remain a permanent resident even if your PR card is expired, lost, or stolen. But it's important to have the card to prove your status.

For example, you can use your PR card to show your status when you apply for:

It's important to have a valid PR card when you travel outside of Canada. If your PR card expires while you're abroad, you cannot return to Canada on commercial carriers like an airline, train, bus, or boat. That's because commercial carriers usually ask for your PR card. You may need to apply for a permanent resident travel document.

When you arrive in Canada, you must show proof of your permanent resident status to border officials. Learn more at Step 1.

Check before you apply

Before you apply for new PR card, check to make sure you still meet the requirements to keep your permanent resident status. If you do not meet the requirements, applying for a PR card or asking to enter Canada could put your status at risk.

If you have concerns, get legal help right away.

Refugees in Canada

If you came as a refugee, you can lose your permanent resident status and refugee protection if you:

travel to the country you claimed refugee protection against, even for a short time,
apply for a passport from the country you claimed refugee protection against even if you do not use it to travel,
travel to any country using a passport from the country you claimed refugee protection against,
return to live in your home country, buy a home, or start a business there, or
become a citizen of a country other than Canada.