How Long Should I Allow for PR Card Processing Time?

By Michael Niren February 25, 2015 (Updated May 3, 2024) 3 min. read

Whether you’ve applied for your first PR (Permanent Resident) card, or are simply renewing your old one, it’s important to allow enough processing time – especially if you’re planning on making a trip outside Canada soon. Below, we’ve outlined a few tips regarding PR card processing time, and how far in advance you need to apply.

Check the Updated Processing Times in 2024

The easiest way to check the current PR card processing time is by visiting the Government of Canada website. These processing times are subject to change but are updated every week.

Currently, for new permanent residents, the wait is about 34 calendar days (for those who have provided their mailing address in Canada). Renewal or replacement times typically take longer, and those who apply for PR card renewal in 2024 can wait up to about 2 months.

Have you been waiting longer than the times shown? According to the CIC: “If you live inside Canada and it has been longer than the time shown above since you applied, please contact the Call Centre. Call Centre agents cannot speed up the process of your application or make decisions on your case.”

The CIC website also states that the processing times in the link above will only show you the time it took to either approve or reject 80 percent of applications “some time in the past”. Processing times are only displayed to give you a general idea of how long the process may take for you, and your PR card processing time could be longer or shorter. Therefore, we urge you to err on the side of caution when applying for your PR card.

Applying for Urgent Processing

If you intend to travel outside Canada and need your PR card urgently, there is an option to apply for urgent processing. Only do this if it looks like your PR card will not be issued by the time you need to leave the country.

To qualify for urgent processing, the following must apply:

However, there are still no guarantees you will receive your card on time. The CIC says that “even if these conditions apply to you, we may not be able to process your request urgently or get your card to you before you leave Canada.”

Why You Should Hire An Immigration Lawyer When Applying for Canada PR

The permanent residence application process can be very complex, time-consuming, and difficult. Many temporary residents change their status to permanent residency, therefore it is essential that if you are considering applying for Canadian permanent residence, you get professional immigration help throughout the Canada PR process. The last thing you want is to be told your application is refused after months (or sometimes years) of waiting.

Need Help Applying for a Permanent Resident Card?

If so, Contact VisaPlace today. All our cases are handled by competent and experienced immigration professionals who are affiliated with VisaPlace. These professionals consist of lawyers, licensed paralegals, and consultants who work for VisaPlace Legal, an award-winning immigration firm that adheres to the highest standards of client service.

Ready for the next step? Book your 1 on 1 consultation now or call us at 1-877-296-0874.

Have a Question related to your Immigration Needs?

Fill out the FREE Immigration Assessment form and get a response within 24 hours to see if you’re eligible.

The assessment form should take approximately 5-7 minutes to complete. We will get back to you within one business day to let you know if we are able to help.

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