A Canadian permanent resident card confirms the holder’s status in Canada. Permanent residents need this card to travel outside Canada; they must show it in order to board commercial transportation (plane, train, bus, or boat) to return to Canada.
The changes are as follows:
- Whereas previously, the PR card had to be sent in with the renewal application, this is no longer required of Permanent Residents applying to replace a PR Card that is due to expire. Instead, they can exchange their old card when they pick up their new one at a CIC office. This makes it easier for people to travel while their application is being processed. If the PR card is expired, however, it should still be sent along with the application.
- Applicants for a new or replacement PR card are no longer required to have their application signed by a guarantor. This simplifies the process for the applicant without compromising security as CIC can confirm their residence and identity with other documents.
"These changes demonstrate our continued commitment to providing more convenient services to newcomers," stated CIC Minister Diane Finley. "We recognize that people may want to hold on to a valid card for travel purposes while waiting for the replacement. We also understand that newcomers may have difficulty finding a guarantor who has known them for at least two years."
The PR card was introduced in 2002 and in most cases is valid for a five-year period.