Becoming a permanent resident in Canada is a major milestone, but it comes with important responsibilities, especially when it comes to international travel. A common concern among new or renewing permanent residents is: Can I leave Canada while waiting for my PR card? The answer isn’t as straightforward as many might think.
In this detailed guide, we explore the rules, risks, and travel alternatives available if you’re considering traveling outside of Canada without your PR card. Whether you’re waiting for your initial PR card or undergoing Permanent Residence (PR) Card Renewal, it’s critical to understand the implications before making any travel plans.
What Are The Limitations On Leaving Canada While Awaiting My PR Card’s Arrival?
Yes, you can leave Canada while waiting for your PR card, but there are several critical considerations. While there’s no law stopping you from exiting the country, the issue arises when trying to return. Your PR card is the official proof of your permanent resident status and is required to board commercial transportation back to Canada.
So, while technically you can travel without a PR card, doing so without a clear plan for re-entry could leave you stranded abroad or dealing with extra paperwork. This is especially important if you’re in the middle of a PR card renewal or have recently landed as a new permanent resident and are still waiting for your first card.
What Are The Risks Of Traveling Without A PR Card?
If you travel without a PR card, you risk not being able to re-enter Canada easily. Airlines, cruise lines, and other transportation companies require valid PR cards for boarding passengers heading back to Canada.
When considering ‘Can I travel without a PR card?’, it’s essential to understand the associated risks, which include:
- Denied Boarding: Most carriers will not allow you to board a flight to Canada without showing a valid PR card.
- Emergency Travel Delays: If you need to return urgently, you may not be able to do so without the proper documents.
- Time and Cost of PR Travel Document: You may need to apply for a PR Travel Document (PRTD) from outside Canada, which involves a waiting period and additional fees.
So, while the answer to ‘Can I travel without a PR card?’ is yes, the practical consequences of doing so can be significant.
Re-Entering Canada Without a Valid PR Card
If you find yourself needing to return to Canada without your PR card, you have limited options:
- Apply for a Permanent Resident Travel Document (PRTD)
- Enter through the U.S. by Land (if applicable)
A Permanent Resident Travel Document (PRTD) is a one-time entry document issued by a Canadian visa office abroad. It’s designed for permanent residents who are outside Canada and need to return but do not have a valid PR card.
Some individuals consider returning via a land border from the United States by private vehicle, which does not require showing a PR card to an airline. However, this still requires valid identification and is not a guaranteed solution.
Consulting an immigration lawyer in Canada is strongly recommended in these scenarios.
The Process To Apply For A PR Travel Document (PRTD)
If you travel without a PR card and need to return to Canada, you’ll need to submit a PR Travel Document Application from the country where you are staying. This PR travel document application confirms your status and allows you to board a flight back to Canada.
To apply for a PRTD, you need to follow the below-given steps:
Step 1. Prepare Your Application: This involves carefully gathering all the necessary documents outlined in the document checklist (IMM 5644). This includes your passport, proof of PR status, and evidence of meeting residency obligations. It is important to use the document checklist.
Step 2. Fill Out The Forms: Accurately and thoroughly fill out the “Application for a Permanent Resident Travel Document” form (IMM 5444). Pay close attention to all fields and ensure all information provided is correct and consistent with your supporting documents. Errors or omissions can lead to delays or the refusal of your application.
Step 3. Pay the Fees and Obtain Proof of Payment: Pay the necessary application fees as specified by IRCC. Ensure you understand the accepted payment methods and retain the official payment receipt. This receipt is a crucial document and must be included with your application submission as proof of payment.
Step 4. Submit Your Application: Submit the completed application package, including all supporting documents and the payment receipt, to the appropriate visa application center or online through the permanent residence portal.
PR Card and PRTD Processing Times
Understanding the processing timelines is essential if you’re planning travel. As of the latest data:
- PR Card (New or Renewal): After you apply for a Canada PR card, it takes roughly 25 days once Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) receives your complete application. On the other hand, renewals typically take around 71 days.
- PRTD: Processing times vary significantly by country, ranging from a few days to several weeks
This delay means that if you need to travel without a PR card, you could be stuck abroad waiting for your PR Travel Document.
Can You Use a Visa or eTA Instead of a PR Card?
No. As a permanent resident of Canada, you cannot use a visitor visa or Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) to re-enter the country. These are only for non-residents. Once you are a permanent resident, you are expected to carry your valid PR card or obtain a PRTD when returning to Canada.
So, if you’re wondering, ‘Can I travel without a PR card and re-enter using an eTA?’, the answer is no. You must use proper documentation that aligns with your PR status.
Steps To Take When Your PR Card Renewal Is Delayed
If your Permanent Residence (PR) Card Renewal is delayed and you must travel, you still face the same risk of being unable to return to Canada without a valid PR card. In such a case:
- Delay your travel if possible until the PR card is received
- Consult with an Immigration Lawyer in Canada to explore the best options
- Plan ahead to apply for a PR Travel Document before returning
Living in Canada During PR Card Processing
The safest option, especially for new permanent residents, is to stay in Canada while waiting for PR. This ensures that you avoid complications when traveling and guarantees that your PR card can be delivered directly to your Canadian address.
If you leave without receiving it, IRCC will not deliver your PR card to an address outside Canada, which could cause more delays or require you to restart the process upon return.
So, while many people ask, ‘Can I travel without a PR card?’, the better question is whether you should. In most cases, unless absolutely necessary, it’s best to stay in Canada while waiting for PR.
Conclusion:
While you can leave Canada without a PR card, doing so requires careful planning. From applying for a PR Travel Document to understanding re-entry risks and processing delays, it’s essential to weigh the pros and cons. When in doubt, seek help from a qualified immigration lawyer in Canada to ensure your travel and residency status remain secure.
To know more, give us a call at 416-447-6118.
FAQs
Can you leave Canada after applying for PR?
Yes, but it depends on the stage of your application. If you’ve applied for permanent residence but haven’t received confirmation or a PR card, consult IRCC guidelines and a legal advisor before traveling.
Can I travel while waiting for PR card?
Technically, yes. However, you will need a PR Travel Document to return to Canada if you travel without a PR card.
Can I travel outside Canada while waiting for PR?
Yes, but you will face re-entry restrictions if you do not have your PR card. A PRTD will be necessary to return. Keep in mind that if the PRTD is negative, you will get a deportation order and lose your status, necessitating an appeal at the Immigration Refugee Board (Appeal Division)
Can I leave Canada after applying for PR?
Yes, but the ability to return hinges on your possession of proper travel documents. Always ensure you’re compliant with IRCC requirements.
What happens if my PR card is not ready before my trip?
You may either delay your travel or apply for a PR Travel Document from abroad. Without one, returning could be difficult.
How long does it take to get a PR Travel Document (PRTD)?
Processing times vary by location but typically range from a few days to several weeks. Check the IRCC website for current timelines.
What should I do if my PR card expires while I am outside Canada?
To re-enter Canada, you must apply for a PR Travel Document. Ensure you maintain a valid PR status and keep records of your residency obligations.
