Applying for Permanent Residence

Steps to Apply for Permanent Residency

1.  Approval of Refugee Claim:

• • Before applying for PR status, your refugee claim must be approved by the Immigration and Refugee Board of Canada (IRB).

2.  Eligibility Criteria:

• • You are eligible to apply for PR status if your refugee claim has been approved and you meet the criteria set by Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).

3.  Application Process:

Important Note: Documents must be in English or French.

Completion of Forms:

• • Complete the necessary PR application forms provided by IRCC.
  • Ensure all information is accurate and up to date.

Gathering Required Documents:

• • Gather supporting documents such as identification (passport, birth certificate), proof of refugee status, and any other documents requested by IRCC.

Payment of Fees:

• • Pay the required application fees.

Submission of Application:

• • Submit your completed application and supporting documents to IRCC either online or by mail.
  • Keep copies of all documents submitted for your records.

Processing of Permanent Residence Application

Processing Time:

• • The processing time for PR applications varies. Check the IRCC website for current processing times.

Decision on PR Status:

• • Await a decision from IRCC regarding your PR application.
  • If approved, you will receive a Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR) and a PR card.

Renewal of PR Card:

• • Renew your PR card before it expires to maintain your PR status and ensure smooth travel in and out of Canada.
  • PR cards are usually issued for 5 years but may be issued for 1 year in some cases.

Important Information

Traveling Outside Canada:

• • Always carry your valid PR card when traveling outside Canada.
  • If you do not have a valid PR card, apply for a Permanent Resident Travel Document (PRTD) to return to Canada.

Maintaining PR Status:

• • Failure to meet this obligation could lead to loss of PR status.
  • To maintain PR status, ensure you meet the residency obligation of being in Canada for at least 730 days within the last five years.