Apply for a permanent resident card

The application package includes the instruction guide and all the forms you need to fill out.

Use the guide to help you fill out the forms properly. If your application is incomplete or missing information, we will return it to you.

We cannot refund the fee to process your form. Make sure that you are eligible before you apply.

Include these documents when you apply:

• your PR card (if your card has expired or if the information on it is out of date or incorrect),
• a copy of:
  • your valid passport or travel document, or
  • a copy of the passport or travel document you held at the time you became a permanent resident
  Photocopies must be clear or we will send your application back to you.

• two photos that meet the Photo Specifications (if they do not meet them, they will not be accepted and we will send back your application),
• any other identity documents listed in the Document Checklist (which is part of the application package), and
• Supplementary Identification Form (IMM 5455).

Photo specifications

Photos for PR cards must follow our specifications. These photos are not passport photos. You can print the Photograph Specifications PDF and bring it with you when you have your photos taken.

Incomplete applications

If we send back your application because it is not complete or is missing information, we will include a letter telling you what we need from you. Add the missing information or fees described in the letter and return everything to CIC. If you do not provide everything that is asked for, we will send back your application again.

The processing time of applications is only for when we get a complete application.

You must pay the application processing fee in Canadian funds only.

To pay your fees online, you must:

• have a PDF Reader,
• have a printer,
• have a valid email address,
• pay with a Visa®, MasterCard® or American Express® credit card,
• print the “receipt of payment” page and include it with your application,
• pay your fees online when you are ready.

To pay your fees at a financial institution in Canada, you must:

• get an original payment receipt form (IMM 5401),
• fill in the receipt form and bring it with you when you go to pay your fees, and
• include the completed payment receipt form (IMM 5401) with your application.

For more detailed instructions, read the “Pay the Fees” section of the application guide.

The application package will give you the address where you can mail your application. Be sure your application is complete.

Include the original receipt for your application fee and all other supporting documents listed in the Document Checklist.