How to Apply for Renewal of a Landed Immigrant Card

renewal of landed immigrant card
renewal of landed immigrant card

The renewal of landed immigrant card is a topic that still creates confusion for many permanent residents in Canada. Some people use the term out of habit, others because older documents still refer to “landed immigrant status.” In reality, what most people mean today is the renewal of the Permanent Resident (PR) card. Understanding this clearly can save time, stress, and costly mistakes.

This guide is written to be clear, accurate, and practical, based on real cases handled by Task Immigration. It explains what the landed immigrant card was, what replaces it today, who needs renewal, how the process works, common mistakes, timelines, documents, and strategic considerations. If you are searching for renewal of landed immigrant card in Canada, this article will give you clarity and direction.

What Is a Landed Immigrant Card? (Important Clarification)

Historically, the term landed immigrant referred to someone who had been granted permanent residence in Canada. Years ago, people received documents such as:

  • Record of Landing (IMM 1000)

  • Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR)

There was no physical “landed immigrant card” as people often imagine today. The modern equivalent that proves your permanent resident status for travel purposes is the Permanent Resident (PR) card.

So when people ask about renewal of landed immigrant card, they are almost always referring to:

  • PR card renewal

  • PR card replacement

  • Updating proof of permanent resident status

At Task Immigration, this is one of the most common misunderstandings we clarify for clients.

Why Renewal of Landed Immigrant Card Still Matters Today

Even though permanent resident status does not expire, the PR card does. You need a valid PR card if you:

  • Travel outside Canada and return by commercial transport

  • Need updated proof of status for employers or institutions

  • Are applying for citizenship and want updated documentation

  • Want to avoid travel delays or border issues

Failing to renew on time can create serious complications, especially for international travel.

Renewal of Landed Immigrant Card in Canada: What It Really Means

In modern terms, renewal of landed immigrant card in Canada means:

  • Applying for a new PR card before or after expiry

  • Confirming you still meet residency obligations

  • Submitting updated photos and documents to IRCC

Your permanent resident status stays valid as long as you meet residency rules, even if your PR card expires.

Who Needs to Apply for PR Card Renewal

You should apply for renewal if:

  • Your PR card has expired

  • Your PR card will expire within the next 6 months

  • Your card is lost, stolen, or damaged

  • Your name or personal details have changed

At Task Immigration, we strongly advise clients not to wait until the last minute, especially if travel is planned.

Who Does NOT Need to Renew Immediately

You may not need urgent renewal if:

  • You do not plan to travel outside Canada

  • You have valid proof of PR status (COPR, IMM 1000)

  • You are close to applying for Canadian citizenship

However, planning ahead is still recommended.

Residency Obligation: The Core Requirement

Before applying for renewal of landed immigrant card (PR card), you must meet the residency obligation.

Residency Rule

You must be physically present in Canada for:

  • At least 730 days (2 years)

  • Within the last 5-year period

These days do not need to be consecutive.

Exceptions That Count as Residency

Certain time outside Canada may still count, such as:

  • Accompanying a Canadian citizen spouse or parent

  • Working abroad for a Canadian company

  • Accompanying a PR spouse working for a Canadian company

Task Immigration often reviews travel history carefully to confirm eligibility before filing.

What Happens If You Do Not Meet Residency Requirements

If you apply without meeting residency obligations:

  • Your application may be refused

  • You could face a PR status review

  • You may risk losing PR status

This is why professional assessment from Task Immigration is critical in borderline cases.

Documents Required for Renewal of Landed Immigrant Card

A complete PR card renewal application typically includes:

  • Application form (IMM 5444)

  • Copy of expired or expiring PR card

  • Valid passport copies

  • Travel history

  • Two PR-compliant photos

  • Proof of residency in Canada

  • Government processing fee

Missing or incorrect documents are a leading cause of delays.

PR Card Photo Requirements (Very Important)

PR card photos are strictly regulated. Common reasons for rejection include:

  • Incorrect size

  • Poor lighting

  • Shadows

  • Non-neutral facial expression

At Task Immigration, photo compliance is checked before submission to avoid rejections.

How to Apply for Renewal of Landed Immigrant Card in Canada

Step-by-Step Process

  1. Confirm eligibility and residency days

  2. Gather required documents

  3. Complete PR card application form

  4. Pay IRCC processing fees

  5. Submit application to IRCC

  6. Track application status

  7. Respond to IRCC requests if needed

The process looks simple but errors can cause months of delay.

Processing Time for PR Card Renewal

Processing times vary, but generally:

  • Standard processing: several weeks to a few months

  • Delays occur due to incomplete applications or residency reviews

Task Immigration advises clients to apply well before travel dates.

Urgent Processing: Is It Possible?

Urgent processing may be requested if:

  • You have immediate travel due to work

  • Family emergency exists

  • Proof of urgency is provided

Approval is discretionary and not guaranteed.

Traveling Without a Valid PR Card

If you leave Canada without a valid PR card:

  • You cannot return by plane, train, or bus

  • You may need to apply for a Permanent Resident Travel Document (PRTD) from abroad

This adds time, cost, and uncertainty. Task Immigration often assists clients who face this situation unexpectedly.

Lost or Stolen PR Card

If your PR card is lost or stolen:

  • Report it immediately

  • Apply for replacement

  • Provide explanation and supporting documents

Do not delay, especially if travel is planned.

Name Change and PR Card Renewal

If your name has changed due to:

  • Marriage

  • Divorce

  • Legal name change

You must provide official proof. Task Immigration ensures consistency across documents to prevent refusal.

Renewal vs Citizenship Application

Some clients ask whether to renew PR card or apply for citizenship.

Key Considerations

  • Citizenship processing takes longer

  • PR card may still be required for travel

  • Dual processing may be possible depending on timing

Strategic planning is important.

Common Mistakes in Renewal of Landed Immigrant Card Applications

  • Miscalculating residency days

  • Submitting incorrect photos

  • Incomplete travel history

  • Applying too late before travel

  • Ignoring IRCC requests

These mistakes are avoidable with proper guidance.

Pros & Cons of PR Card Renewal

Pros Cons
Valid proof of PR status Processing time
Smooth international travel Application fees
Avoids border complications Strict photo requirements
Peace of mind Residency scrutiny
Required for many services Delays if errors occur

How Task Immigration Supports PR Card Renewal

At Task Immigration, clients receive:

  • Residency eligibility assessment

  • Document and travel history review

  • Application accuracy checks

  • Photo compliance guidance

  • IRCC communication support

This reduces risk and speeds up outcomes.

Special Situations That Require Extra Care

Some cases need deeper analysis:

  • Long absences from Canada

  • Humanitarian considerations

  • Employment abroad

  • Family sponsorship overlaps

Task Immigration handles these cases with strategic planning rather than guesswork.

Frequently Asked Questions About Renewal of Landed Immigrant Card

1. Is there really a landed immigrant card to renew?

No. The term refers to PR card renewal today.

2. Does permanent resident status expire?

No. Only the PR card expires, not your PR status.

3. When should I apply for PR card renewal?

Ideally 6 months before expiry.

4. Can I renew my PR card from outside Canada?

No. You must be in Canada to apply.

5. What if my PR card expired years ago?

You can still apply if you meet residency obligations.

6. How long does PR card renewal take?

Processing times vary, often several weeks to months.

7. Can I travel while my PR card renewal is in process?

Travel is risky without a valid PR card.

8. What happens if I don’t meet residency requirements?

Your application may be refused and status reviewed.

9. Do I need a lawyer or consultant?

Not mandatory, but professional help reduces risk.

10. How can Task Immigration help with renewal?

By ensuring eligibility, accuracy, and smooth IRCC processing.