How to Replace a Lost, Stolen, or Damaged PR Card in Canada

Losing your permanent resident card — or having it stolen or damaged — is stressful, but PR card replacement lost stolen damaged Canada situations are handled through a straightforward IRCC application process. Most Ontario permanent residents can apply online and, with the right documents, keep their status fully intact while waiting for the new card to arrive. This guide walks you through every step, from filing a police report to understanding your travel options if the replacement is taking too long.

Step 1: Report Theft to Police (Stolen Cards Only)

If your PR card was stolen, file a police report as soon as possible. You do not legally need a police report to apply for a replacement, but IRCC strongly recommends one. It:

• Creates an official record that the card was taken without your consent.
• Reduces the risk of identity fraud if someone tries to misuse the document.
• Provides supporting evidence that can help your application.

Keep a copy of the police report or report number — you will include it with your IRCC application.

If the card was lost or damaged, no police report is needed. Damaged cards should be kept; IRCC may ask you to submit them.

Step 2: Confirm You Still Hold Permanent Resident Status

Replacing a PR card does not renew your permanent resident status. The card is simply proof of status, not the status itself. Before applying, confirm you meet the residency obligation — generally, 730 days of physical presence in Canada within every five-year period. If you are concerned about your residency compliance, speak with an immigration lawyer before filing.

Step 3: Complete the Correct IRCC Form

The primary application form for a PR card replacement is IMM 5444 ("Application to Replace a Permanent Resident Card"). As of writing, it is available on the Canada.ca / IRCC website — always download the latest version directly from the source.

You will also need to complete:

• IMM 5476 — if you are using a representative (lawyer, consultant, or authorized third party).
• A Use of a Representative form if someone other than you is submitting the application.

Fill out all sections completely. Incomplete forms are the most common reason for application returns and delays.

Step 4: Gather Your Supporting Documents

IRCC requires a specific document package. The standard checklist includes:

Identity documents

• Valid Canadian or foreign passport, or other government-issued photo ID.
• Birth certificate (if applicable).

Proof of permanent resident status

• Your Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR), if you still have it.
• Any previous PR card (for damaged cards — include even if damaged).
• Landed immigrant documentation, if you were landed before cards were introduced.

Photographs

• Two (2) recent passport-style photos meeting IRCC's specifications (white background, specific dimensions — check the current photo requirements on Canada.ca before printing).

Police report (stolen cards)

• A copy of the police report or the report reference number.

Travel history and residency evidence (if requested)

• IRCC may ask for records to confirm you have met the residency obligation — entry/exit stamps, work records, tax returns, lease agreements.

Check the official IRCC document checklist for IMM 5444 when you download the form, as requirements can change.

Step 5: Pay the Application Fee

As of writing, the government fee for a PR card renewal or replacement is $50 CAD (confirm the current fee on Canada.ca before paying). The fee is paid online through the IRCC secure payment portal when you submit the application. Fees are generally non-refundable once the application is accepted for processing.

Step 6: Submit Your Application

Most PR card replacement applications are submitted online through your IRCC secure account (previously My CIC). Create or log in to your account, select the PR card application, attach your scanned documents, pay the fee, and submit.

If you are unable to apply online (for accessibility or other reasons), IRCC has a paper-based process — check Canada.ca for current instructions on paper submissions.

After submitting, you will receive an acknowledgement of receipt and an application number. Keep these — you will use them to track processing.

Step 7: Understand Processing Times

Processing times for PR card replacement fluctuate. As of writing — confirm on Canada.ca/IRCC — standard processing takes several weeks to a few months. IRCC publishes current estimated processing times on their website; check there for the latest figures rather than relying on any published article.

Urgent Processing

If you have a compelling reason to travel soon (medical emergency, death of a family member outside Canada, urgent business), you may be able to request urgent processing. To do this:

1. Submit your application in the normal way.
2. Write to IRCC with your application number and a clear explanation of the urgency, supported by evidence (e.g., a letter from a doctor or hospital, proof of funeral arrangements).
3. IRCC will assess the request and may expedite the application.

Urgent processing is not guaranteed. Apply as early as possible rather than waiting until travel is imminent.

Travelling Before Your New Card Arrives: The PRTD Option

If your new card has not arrived and you need to travel outside Canada, you cannot board a commercial flight back to Canada without valid PR status documentation. A PR card is required for boarding; without one, you will need a Permanent Resident Travel Document (PRTD).

What Is a PRTD?

A PRTD is a single-trip travel document issued by a Canadian visa office abroad. It is applied for at the nearest Canadian embassy, consulate, or high commission in the country you are in (or travelling to). It allows you to board a flight back to Canada once.

Key points about the PRTD:

• You apply for it while outside Canada — it cannot be issued inside Canada.
• Processing times vary by office — as of writing, confirm current times on Canada.ca.
• You must still demonstrate you hold valid permanent resident status.
• A PRTD does not replace your PR card; you will still need to complete your replacement application once you return.

Plan ahead. If there is any possibility you may need to travel, apply for the PR card replacement the moment you discover the card is lost, stolen, or damaged. Do not wait.

Keeping Proof of Status in the Meantime

While your replacement is processing, keep these documents accessible:

• Your COPR (Confirmation of Permanent Residence) — issued when you first landed.
• Your original PR card application or landing documents.
• Any correspondence from IRCC confirming your status.

Within Canada, a PR card is not required to access provincial services, health cards, or employment. Outside Canada — or when flying back into Canada — you will need either a valid PR card or a PRTD.

Frequently asked questions