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low

Star Member
Dec 31, 2009
83
3
Hi..my PR card will expire by mid May 2015. Around the same period, I will be eligible for citizenship application ( assuming that there are no changes to bill C-24's 1 year implementation period).

I read that CIC only process PR card renewals 4 months prior to expiry of the card.

Q : how long would it take for PR cards to be renewed? If not mistaken, the PR card would need to be submitted to CIC when I apply for citizenship. I do not want to risk any delay applying for citizenship due to PR card being delayed for processing at CIC.

Appreciate some adv regarding my situation.

Thx
 
low said:
I read that CIC only process PR card renewals 4 months prior to expiry of the card.

It's six months (not 4).

Current PR card renewal processing times are 112 days:

http://www.cic.gc.ca/english/information/times/perm-card.asp
 
low said:
If not mistaken, the PR card would need to be submitted to CIC when I apply for citizenship. I do not want to risk any delay applying for citizenship due to PR card being delayed for processing at CIC.

It is not a requirement that you submit your actual PR card with your citizenship application; as the guide states, you only need to submit a photocopy of both sides.

Also, you are also not required to submit your actual PR card when you apply for renewal; the guide clearly states that you should retain your current card until you receive the new one.
 
CIC will ask to see your PR card during your citizenship interview near the end of processing your application. You will surrender your PR card at the oath ceremony.

It is unclear if you actually need to have a valid PR card since having an valid PR card is not normally needed unless you travel outside the country. But it seems like having one will make your life easier as many places consider a valid PR card the best government ID you can have.