PR Card Renewal Fee is the amount you must pay to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) when applying to renew, replace, or get a new Permanent Resident Card. The fee ensures your application is processed and your card is issued. As of 2025, the standard renewal fee is CAD 50, while replacements cost CAD 25 and new cards for newly landed residents cost CAD 75. These fees are non-refundable, even if your application is denied. Payment must be made online using a credit or debit card before submitting your application. Without the correct fee and printed receipt, IRCC will return your application, causing delays of up to 30 days.
Current PR Card Renewal Fee Structure (2025)
The PR Card Renewal Fee depends on the type of application you submit. Renewals cost CAD 50, replacements for lost, stolen, or damaged cards cost CAD 25, and new cards for permanent residents who have just landed cost CAD 75. These amounts are set by IRCC and are listed on the official online payment portal. The fee is charged at the time of payment and must be paid in full before your application can be processed. All fees are non-refundable, meaning you will not get your money back if your application is rejected due to incomplete documents or failure to meet residency requirements.
| Application Type | Fee (CAD) | Refundable? |
|---|---|---|
| Renewal | 50 | No |
| Replacement (lost, stolen, damaged) | 25 | No |
| New card (for newly landed residents) | 75 | No |
How to Pay the PR Card Renewal Fee
You must pay the PR Card Renewal Fee online through the official IRCC payment portal. Cash, cheques, and money orders are not accepted. Accepted payment methods include Visa, Mastercard, American Express, and Interac-enabled debit cards. After payment, the system generates a PDF receipt with a transaction number, date, and amount. You must print this receipt on plain white paper and include it at the front of your application package. If the receipt is missing, IRCC will return your application, adding up to 30 days to your processing time.
To complete the payment, you need a computer with internet access, a PDF reader like Adobe Acrobat, a working printer, and an active email address. The receipt serves as proof of payment and is linked to your client ID in the IRCC system. Keep a digital copy for your records. Do not send cash or personal cheques, as they will be rejected and your application will be delayed.
Required Documents with Your PR Card Application
Along with the PR Card Renewal Fee receipt, you must include several documents in your application package. These include two identical passport-style photographs (35 mm × 45 mm) taken within the last six months, with a neutral background and no glasses. You must also provide a photocopy of a valid provincial or territorial ID, such as a driver’s license or health card. If your name has changed, include legal proof like a marriage certificate or court order.
Your application form must be completed accurately, with your name, date of birth, and address matching the information in the IRCC database. Any mismatch can trigger an extra verification step, adding up to 12 days to processing. If you are outside Canada, you may need a Permanent Resident Travel Document (PRTD) to return. Always check the latest requirements on the official IRCC website before mailing your package.
Processing Times for PR Card Renewal
The average processing time for a PR Card Renewal is 22 to 23 calendar days for renewals and 27 to 30 days for replacements. These times are based on IRCC’s quarterly performance reports and can vary during peak periods, such as summer or holiday seasons, when delays of up to 10 extra days may occur. If your application is incomplete or missing the fee receipt, processing stops until the issue is resolved, which can add weeks to your wait.
Applicants are advised to apply at least two months before their card expires, especially if they plan to travel abroad. The PR card is required for re-entry to Canada by land, sea, or air. If your card expires while you are outside Canada, you must apply for a PRTD from the nearest Canadian visa office before boarding a flight home. This document is valid for one entry and lasts up to three months.
Common Reasons for Application Delays
Missing the printed payment receipt is the top cause of delays in PR Card Renewal applications. IRCC will return your file if the receipt is not included, and you must resubmit the entire package. Other common issues include incorrect photographs, outdated ID copies, or incomplete forms. Using a name that does not match IRCC records also slows processing, as staff must verify your identity manually.
Applicants who have not provided biometrics in the past 10 years may be required to visit a biometric collection center. This adds time to the process, as appointments must be scheduled and completed before the card can be issued. Always double-check your application kit before mailing to avoid these common mistakes.
PR Card Renewal for Applicants Outside Canada
Permanent residents outside Canada must take extra steps to renew their PR card. If your card is expired or will expire soon, you should apply for a renewal at least two months before planning to return. If you do not have a valid PR card, you must obtain a Permanent Resident Travel Document (PRTD) from the nearest Canadian visa office. This document allows one-time entry and is valid for up to three months.
The PRTD process requires a separate application and fee, and processing can take several weeks. It is not a replacement for the PR card but a temporary solution for re-entry. Once back in Canada, you should immediately apply to renew your PR card to avoid future travel issues. Keep your contact information updated with IRCC to receive timely notifications.
Difference Between PR Card Renewal and Replacement
PR Card Renewal is for cards that are expired or will expire within nine months. The fee is CAD 50. Replacement is for cards that are lost, stolen, damaged, or contain incorrect information. The fee for replacement is lower, at CAD 25. Both processes require the same application form and supporting documents, but the reason code on the form must match your situation.
Renewals are processed faster on average, but both types take about three to four weeks. If your card was stolen, include a police report with your application. For damaged cards, send the original card with your application. Do not apply for a replacement if your card is simply expiring—use the renewal option instead to avoid confusion.
Biometrics and PR Card Renewal
If you have not given your biometrics (fingerprints and photo) to IRCC in the past 10 years, you may be asked to provide them during the renewal process. After submitting your application, IRCC will mail you a letter with instructions to book an appointment at a designated service center. This step ensures your identity is verified and helps prevent fraud.
Biometric appointments are available at Service Canada locations across the country. You must bring valid ID and the appointment letter. The process takes about 15 minutes. Once completed, your biometrics are linked to your file, and card production begins. This step can add up to two weeks to your total processing time.
Tracking Your PR Card Application Status
After submitting your application, you can track its status online using your client ID and date of birth. IRCC provides updates through the online portal, including confirmation of receipt, payment verification, and when your card is mailed. You will receive an email notification when your card is sent.
If there is no update after six weeks, contact IRCC through their web form or call center. Have your application number and receipt ready. Do not call multiple times in one day, as this can slow response times. Most applications are processed within the published timeframes unless additional checks are needed.
What Happens If Your PR Card Expires While You’re in Canada?
If your PR card expires while you are in Canada, you do not lose your permanent resident status. Status does not expire—only the card does. However, you will need a valid card to re-enter Canada if you travel abroad. If your card expires soon, apply for renewal immediately to avoid travel disruptions.
You can still access healthcare, work, and live in Canada with an expired card, but some services may ask for valid ID. It is best to renew before the expiry date. If you wait too long, you may need to apply for a replacement instead, which has a different fee and process.
PR Card Renewal vs. U.S. Green Card Renewal
The PR Card Renewal Fee in Canada is much lower than the U.S. Green Card renewal fee. In Canada, it costs CAD 50 to renew, while in the U.S., the fee is USD 540, including a USD 455 filing fee and USD 85 biometric fee. U.S. applicants must file Form I-90 and attend a biometric appointment, similar to Canada’s process.
Both countries require proof of payment and valid ID. However, the U.S. allows fee waivers for low-income applicants, while Canada does not offer waivers for PR card fees. Processing times are similar, averaging 90 days in the U.S. and 23 days in Canada. Always check the official government websites for the most current fees and rules.
How to Avoid PR Card Application Mistakes
To avoid delays, always use the latest version of the PR Card Application Kit from the IRCC website. Fill out all fields clearly and sign the form. Include the correct fee receipt, two photos, and a copy of your ID. Double-check your address and name spelling.
Mail your package to the correct address in Sydney, Nova Scotia. Use tracked mail so you can confirm delivery. Do not fold the receipt or photos. Keep a copy of everything you send. If you make a mistake, IRCC may return your application, costing you time and money.
Contact Information for PR Card Inquiries
For questions about the PR Card Renewal Fee or application process, contact IRCC through their official website. You can submit an inquiry online or call the call center. Have your client ID and application number ready. Phone lines are busiest on Mondays and Fridays.
IRCC does not provide in-person services for PR card applications. All communication is online or by mail. For urgent travel needs, explain your situation when contacting IRCC. They may offer expedited processing in rare cases, but this is not guaranteed.
Official Resources and Links
Always use official government sources for PR card information. The main website is Canada.ca. Avoid third-party sites that charge extra fees. IRCC updates fees and processing times regularly, so check the site before applying.
Official website: https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/new-immigrants/pr-card.html
Phone: 1-888-242-2100 (within Canada)
Hours: Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. local time
Frequently Asked Questions
Many applicants have similar questions about the PR Card Renewal Fee and process. Below are answers to the most common concerns. These are based on the latest IRCC guidelines and operational bulletins.
Can I pay the PR Card Renewal Fee in person?
No, you cannot pay the PR Card Renewal Fee in person. All payments must be made online through the IRCC portal. There are no cash or cheque options. The system only accepts credit or debit cards with international transaction capability. After payment, you must print the receipt and include it with your mailed application. In-person payments are not processed at any IRCC office or Service Canada location.
What if I lose my payment receipt?
If you lose your payment receipt, you can log back into the IRCC payment portal using your email and client ID to reprint it. The receipt contains a unique transaction number that IRCC uses to verify payment. If you cannot access the portal, contact IRCC through their web form. Do not send a new payment, as this will cause confusion and delay your application. Always keep a digital and printed copy after payment.
Can I renew my PR card if I haven’t met residency obligations?
You can apply to renew your PR card even if you haven’t met residency obligations, but IRCC may deny your application. The card renewal does not guarantee status retention. If you have been outside Canada for more than seven out of 10 years, you must prove you meet the residency requirement or risk losing permanent resident status. IRCC will review your travel history before issuing a new card.
Is the PR Card Renewal Fee tax-deductible?
No, the PR Card Renewal Fee is not tax-deductible in Canada. It is considered a personal expense and cannot be claimed on your income tax return. Unlike business or medical expenses, immigration fees are not eligible for deductions. Keep your receipt for personal records, but do not include it when filing taxes.
How long is a renewed PR card valid?
A renewed PR card is valid for 10 years from the issue date. The expiry date is printed on the front of the card. You should apply for renewal nine months before it expires to avoid travel issues. If your card expires while abroad, you will need a PRTD to return to Canada. Always check the expiry date before planning international trips.
Can I apply for PR card renewal online?
No, you cannot submit your entire PR card application online. You can only pay the fee online and print the receipt. The rest of the application, including photos and ID copies, must be mailed to IRCC in Sydney, Nova Scotia. The online payment is mandatory, but the physical package is still required. Do not email documents, as IRCC does not accept digital submissions for PR card renewals.
What happens if my PR card is damaged?
If your PR card is damaged, you must apply for a replacement, not a renewal. The fee is CAD 25. Include the damaged card with your application. Do not tape or repair it. IRCC will verify the damage and issue a new card. If the card is unreadable or torn, it cannot be used for travel, even if the expiry date is still valid.