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Updated 2026-02-11
PR Card Renewal Processing Time: 45-120 Days
Renew your permanent resident card - ensure you meet residency obligations
Current Time
45-120 days
Last Updated
2026-02-11
Trend
Times are stable
Processing Time Overview
About PR Card Renewal Processing
PR card renewal applications are currently taking 45 to 120 days to process in 2026, depending on application complexity and whether additional documentation is required to verify residency obligations. Standard straightforward applications where residency obligations are clearly met typically process within 45-65 days. Applications requiring additional review of residency obligation compliance, employment verification, or travel history may take 90-120 days or longer.
To be eligible for PR card renewal, you must have been physically present in Canada for at least 730 days (2 years) within the last five years, or meet specific exceptions (accompanying a Canadian citizen spouse, working for a Canadian company abroad, or accompanying a PR spouse who is working for a Canadian company abroad). If you don't meet the residency obligation, your application may be refused and you could lose your permanent resident status.
It's important to apply for renewal at least 9 months before your current PR card expires if you plan to travel internationally. While you don't lose your PR status if your card expires, you cannot board a plane to return to Canada without a valid PR card (you would need to apply for a Permanent Resident Travel Document from outside Canada, which takes additional time). If you're currently outside Canada with an expired or soon-to-expire PR card, you should apply for a PR Travel Document rather than a PR card renewal.
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Historical Data
Processing Time Trends
Track how processing times have changed over recent months
January 2026
45-120 days
Q4 2025
50-125 days
Q3 2025
55-130 days
Q2 2025
50-120 days
Q1 2025
40-110 days
2024 Average
46-124 days
Processing Factors
What Affects Processing Time?
Understanding these factors can help you prepare a stronger application
Whether you clearly meet the residency obligation (730 days in 5 years)
Completeness of travel history documentation
Need for additional verification of physical presence in Canada
Quality and clarity of supporting documents (employment letters, school records)
Photo quality and compliance with specifications
Current application volume at processing center
Expert Tips
How to Avoid Processing Delays
Follow these best practices to keep your application moving smoothly
Apply at least 9 months before your current PR card expires if you travel internationally
Calculate your physical presence carefully using IRCC's online calculator
Keep detailed records of all travel: entry/exit stamps, boarding passes, travel receipts
Provide comprehensive supporting documents: tax returns, employment letters, school records
Ensure photos meet all technical specifications (size, background, recent)
If close to residency obligation minimum, include additional evidence of presence in Canada
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about PR Card Renewal processing times
How long does PR card renewal take in 2026?
PR card renewal in 2026 takes approximately 45-120 days depending on your application's complexity. Straightforward applications where residency obligations are clearly met typically process in 45-65 days. Applications requiring additional review of residency compliance, travel history verification, or documentation follow-up can take 90-120 days. It's recommended to apply at least 9 months before your card expires if you plan international travel, as you cannot board a plane to Canada without a valid PR card.
What is the residency obligation for PR card renewal?
To be eligible for PR card renewal, you must have been physically present in Canada for at least 730 days (2 years) within the 5 years immediately before your application. If you became a PR less than 5 years ago, you must meet the residency obligation proportionally. Days outside Canada can count toward residency if you were: accompanying a Canadian citizen spouse/parent, working full-time for a Canadian business abroad, or accompanying a PR spouse who is working for a Canadian business abroad. If you don't meet these requirements, your renewal may be refused.
What happens if my PR card expires?
If your PR card expires, you do not lose your permanent resident status - you remain a PR. However, an expired PR card creates travel problems: you cannot board a commercial vehicle (plane, train, bus, boat) to return to Canada without a valid PR card. If outside Canada with an expired card, you must apply for a Permanent Resident Travel Document from a visa office abroad, which takes additional time and processing. If you're in Canada, you can continue to live and work normally, but you should apply for renewal to maintain valid documentation.
Can I expedite my PR card renewal?
IRCC does not offer routine expedited processing for PR card renewals. However, urgent processing may be considered in limited situations: urgent travel for medical reasons, death of a family member, urgent business travel required by employer. To request urgent processing, you must submit your complete application first, then contact IRCC with proof of urgency (medical documents, death certificate, employer letter with business necessity). Urgent processing is granted at IRCC's discretion and only in genuine emergencies. Most requests for urgent processing are denied.
What documents do I need for PR card renewal?
For PR card renewal you need: completed application forms (IMM 5444), two compliant PR card photos (35mm x 45mm, taken within last 6 months), copy of current PR card (both sides), documents proving residency obligation (detailed travel history, supporting documents like employment letters, tax returns, school records, leases), valid identification, and payment of processing fee. If you have extensive travel history or are close to the 730-day minimum, provide additional proof of physical presence in Canada like utility bills, bank statements, and employment records.
Related Programs
Other Processing Times
Check processing times for related immigration programs
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