What to Do If You Lose Your PR Card While Outside Canada

Losing your Canadian PR card while traveling outside the country can feel scary—but don’t worry. If you’re a permanent resident and your card gets lost or stolen while abroad, there’s a solution to help you return to Canada.

Here’s everything you need to know in simple terms.

Why Your PR Card Matters

Your Permanent Resident (PR) card is proof that you’re a permanent resident of Canada. It’s required when you’re returning to Canada through a plane, train, bus, or ship.

If you don’t have it, you can’t board commercial transportation back to Canada.

Lost PR Card Outside Canada? Apply for a PRTD

If you lose your PR card while abroad, you’ll need a Permanent Resident Travel Document (PRTD) to return to Canada.

• You cannot apply for a new PR card from outside Canada.
• The PRTD is a temporary travel document that lets you return to Canada one time.
• Once you’re back, you can then apply for a new PR card.

How to Apply for a PRTD (Permanent Resident Travel Document)

Follow these steps:

1. Get the application package:
   • Includes a guide (IMM 5529) and forms.
   • Checklist (IMM 5644) and main form (IMM 5444).
2. Fill out the forms:
   • You can fill them online through the Permanent Residence Portal, or
   • On paper (only if you need special assistance).
3. Pay the fee:
   • The cost is $50 CAD.
   • Save your payment receipt—you must include it in your application.
4. Submit your application:
   • Online through the PR Portal, or
   • On paper at a Visa Application Centre (VAC).
5. Urgent request?
   • If you need to return to Canada quickly (within 5 days), mark your request as urgent.

When You Can Ask for Urgent Processing

You may qualify for urgent processing if you:

• Have a job or an interview in Canada soon.
• Have a sick family member or there’s been a death in the family.
• Are in a crisis or emergency situation.
• Lost your card during short-term travel outside Canada.

To apply urgently, include:

• Proof of travel (like a flight ticket or itinerary).
• A letter explaining your situation.
• Supporting documents (such as a doctor’s note or employer letter).
• Your payment receipt.

⚠️ Note: Even urgent requests are not guaranteed. IRCC decides if your case qualifies.

What Happens After You Apply

IRCC will:

• Check your application to make sure it’s complete.
• Confirm that you still meet residency requirements (you must have lived in Canada for at least 730 days in the past 5 years).
• Ask for more documents if needed.
• Possibly schedule an interview (this is rare).

If approved:

• You’ll be asked to submit your passport, so the PRTD can be issued.

If refused:

• You’ll receive a letter explaining the reason and your appeal options.

Can You Drive Into Canada Without a PR Card?

Yes—but only if you’re driving a private vehicle across a land border.

Here’s what to bring to prove your PR status:

• Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR)
• Canadian driver’s license
• Health card
• SIN (Social Insurance Number)
• Vehicle registration (if it’s your car)
• Job-related documents (optional)

Be ready to explain your situation honestly to Canada Border Services officers.

What If You Lost Your PR Card Inside Canada?

If you’re already in Canada:

• Just apply for a new PR card online or on paper.
• Fill out form IMM 5444, and include all required documents and payment.
• Fee: $50 CAD.
• Upload a police report (if you have one) with your application.

If approved, your new PR card will be sent by mail to your Canadian address.

Delivery Tips for New PR Cards

• PR cards are only mailed within Canada.
• If you live in a rural area, you can use a PO box.
• IRCC won’t mail your card to someone else’s address.
• If IRCC asks you to pick it up, bring:
  • Your passport, and
  • Any original documents you submitted copies of earlier.

1. Can I travel back to Canada without a PR card?
Not by plane, bus, train, or ship. You’ll need a PRTD. But you can drive in through a land border with other ID.

2. How long does it take to get a PRTD?
It depends on your country and case. Usually 2 to 8 weeks, but IRCC doesn’t give official timelines.

3. What if I lost my PR card and passport?
You’ll need to replace your passport first with your embassy, then apply for a PRTD using the new one.

4. Can I apply for a PR card while outside Canada?
No. You must be inside Canada to apply for a new PR card.

5. Is a PRTD valid forever?
No. It’s a one-time entry document. Once you use it, apply for a PR card right away.

6. Do I need a lawyer to apply for a PRTD?
Not necessarily. But working with a licensed immigration consultant, like Ask Kubeir, can help avoid mistakes and delays.

Would you like a consultation to explore your Canadian work options? Contact Ask Kubeir today!

📌 If you believe your VISA application should be showcased in the most favorable light when submitting to immigration, feel free to book our services.

📌 To book an appointment with Kubeir – Licensed Canadian Immigration Consultant, click the “Book Appointment”

📲 You may also reach us at this number for all immigration-related services:

• (+𝟭) 𝟰𝟯𝟳-𝟳𝟳𝟳-𝟯𝟳𝟳𝟳 (Canada)
• +971 45 26 4646 (Dubai)

Disclaimer: This is for informational purposes only and not legal advice. Always consult experts like us or the official IRCC website for up-to-date details.