How to Apply for a Permanent Resident Travel Document From Outside Canada
Learn how to apply for a Canadian PRTD when you are outside Canada without a valid PR card, including the $50 fee, 730-day residency obligation, documents, online application, urgent processing and what happens after approval.
CA Canada
Immigration & Travel ~ 12 min read
16 FAQ
Updated 2026-08-25
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If you are a Canadian permanent resident outside Canada without a valid PR card and need to return by commercial transportation such as a plane, bus, train or boat, apply for a Permanent Resident Travel Document through the Permanent Residence Portal. You must prove your identity, confirm that you still have permanent resident status and meet the residency obligation. The PRTD fee is $50 per person. If you have been a permanent resident for at least 5 years, you normally need at least 730 qualifying days in Canada during the 5 years immediately before you apply. If approved, IRCC asks you to submit your valid passport or travel document so a PRTD counterfoil can be placed in it. A PRTD is normally valid for one entry, although IRCC can consider a multiple-entry PRTD in qualifying circumstances.
What you need
- Be outside Canada.
- Still have Canadian permanent resident status.
- Not have a valid PR card in your possession.
- Need to return to Canada by commercial transportation such as an airplane, boat, train or bus.
- Meet the permanent resident residency obligation or provide applicable evidence for qualifying time outside Canada or humanitarian and compassionate considerations.
- Complete the digital IMM 5444 application in the Permanent Residence Portal.
- Complete and upload Document Checklist IMM 5644.
- Provide a copy of your current valid passport or travel document.
- Provide copies of all pages of passports or travel documents used during the 5 years immediately before the application.
- Provide at least 2 pieces of evidence supporting the residency obligation.
- Pay the $50 PRTD processing fee and include the payment receipt.
- Provide English or French translations for documents in another language according to IRCC requirements.
- If approved, follow IRCC instructions to submit your original valid passport or travel document so the PRTD counterfoil can be attached.
Eligibility
You can apply for a Permanent Resident Travel Document if you are a Canadian permanent resident, are currently outside Canada, do not have a valid PR card in your possession and intend to return to Canada by commercial transportation such as a plane, boat, train or bus. You must confirm that you still hold permanent resident status and meet the applicable residency obligation. If you have been a permanent resident for 5 years or more, you normally need at least 730 days of qualifying presence in Canada during the 5 years immediately before your application. If you became a permanent resident less than 5 years ago, you must show that you can still accumulate at least 730 qualifying days within the first 5 years after becoming a permanent resident. Some days outside Canada can count in specific circumstances, including qualifying employment outside Canada, accompanying a Canadian citizen spouse, common-law partner or parent, or accompanying a permanent resident who meets specific Canadian-employment conditions.
How to do it
- Confirm that you are outside Canada, still have permanent resident status and do not have a valid PR card.
- Review your travel history and calculate whether you meet the permanent resident residency obligation.
- Gather your current passport and copies of all passports or travel documents used during the previous 5 years.
- Gather at least 2 pieces of evidence showing that you meet the residency obligation, such as employment records, pay stubs, bank statements, CRA notices of assessment, rental agreements or evidence of Canadian government benefits.
- If you rely on qualifying time spent outside Canada, collect the specific employment, citizenship, relationship or residence evidence required by IRCC.
- Sign in to the Permanent Residence Portal and complete the digital IMM 5444 application.
- Complete and upload IMM 5644, Document Checklist.
- Upload all supporting documents and any applicable representative or personal-information authorization forms.
- Pay the $50 PRTD fee online and upload the payment receipt.
- Submit the complete application through the Permanent Residence Portal. If you cannot apply online and require an accommodation, follow IRCC's paper application procedure where available.
- If your return travel is within the next 5 days and you meet an urgent-processing reason, mark the request as urgent and submit the required travel and urgency evidence.
- Monitor your email and application status for requests from IRCC.
- If approved, follow IRCC's instructions for submitting your valid passport or travel document so the PRTD counterfoil can be attached.
- Use the PRTD to return to Canada and apply for or renew your PR card after you are back in Canada.
Who needs a Permanent Resident Travel Document?
A Permanent Resident Travel Document, commonly called a PRTD, is for Canadian permanent residents who are outside Canada without a valid PR card and need to return on commercial transportation.
You normally need a PRTD if you plan to travel to Canada by:
- airplane;
- commercial bus;
- train;
- commercial boat or ship.
A PRTD proves to the transportation company that you are authorized to travel to Canada as a permanent resident.
Who can apply for a PRTD?
IRCC states that you may apply if you:
- have permanent resident status in Canada;
- are outside Canada;
- do not have a valid PR card;
- will return to Canada by airplane, boat, train or bus;
- meet the permanent resident residency obligation;
- have not lost your permanent resident status;
- are not a Canadian citizen;
- are not applying to voluntarily renounce your permanent resident status.
Who should not apply for a PRTD?
You should not use this procedure if you are:
- a Canadian citizen;
- a foreign national who does not have permanent resident status;
- a permanent resident who already has a valid PR card in their possession;
- a former permanent resident who has officially lost PR status;
- a permanent resident who wants to voluntarily renounce PR status.
If you are physically inside Canada, apply for or renew your PR card instead of applying for a PRTD.
Does an expired PR card mean you lost permanent resident status?
No. Your permanent resident status does not automatically end when your PR card expires.
You remain a permanent resident until your status is formally lost under Canadian immigration law, such as after a final residency determination, an enforceable removal order, voluntary renunciation or becoming a Canadian citizen.
If you are outside Canada without a valid PR card, the PRTD process allows IRCC to assess whether you still meet the conditions to return as a permanent resident.
What is the 730-day residency obligation?
The residency obligation is central to a PRTD application.
If you have been a permanent resident for 5 years or more
You normally must have accumulated at least 730 qualifying days in Canada during the 5 years immediately before you apply.
The 730 days do not have to be continuous.
If you have been a permanent resident for less than 5 years
You must show that you will still be able to accumulate at least 730 qualifying days within the first 5 years after the date you became a permanent resident.
Can time outside Canada count toward the 730 days?
Yes, in specific situations recognized by the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act.
Qualifying days outside Canada may include certain periods when you:
- worked full-time outside Canada for a qualifying Canadian business or the federal, provincial or territorial public service under the applicable assignment rules;
- accompanied a Canadian citizen spouse or common-law partner outside Canada;
- were a qualifying child accompanying a Canadian citizen parent outside Canada;
- accompanied a permanent resident spouse, common-law partner or parent who was employed outside Canada in qualifying Canadian employment.
You must provide the specific supporting evidence required for the category you rely on.
What documents prove you meet the residency obligation?
IRCC requires copies of at least 2 pieces of evidence showing that you meet the residency obligation.
Examples listed by IRCC include:
- employment records or pay stubs;
- bank statements;
- Canada Revenue Agency notices of assessment;
- evidence of receiving Canadian government benefits;
- rental agreements;
- club or association memberships;
- other documents showing that you were living in Canada during the relevant period.
If you became a permanent resident less than 5 years ago, provide evidence covering the period since you became a permanent resident.
What passport documents are required?
You must provide:
- a copy of your current valid passport or travel document; and
- copies of all pages of every passport or travel document you used during the 5 years immediately before the application.
IRCC instructs applicants not to send original identity or immigration documents with the initial application because originals will not be returned.
If IRCC approves the application, it will later send instructions explaining how and where to submit your original valid passport or travel document so the PRTD counterfoil can be placed in it.
Which form do you use for a PRTD application?
The application is IMM 5444, Application for a Permanent Resident Card or Permanent Resident Travel Document.
If you apply online, you complete the digital IMM 5444 directly in the Permanent Residence Portal.
You must also complete and upload IMM 5644, Document Checklist.
If a representative is helping you, you may also need IMM 5476. If you want IRCC to release information to a designated individual, you may use IMM 5475.
How to apply for a PRTD online
IRCC allows PRTD applications through the Permanent Residence Portal.
- Sign in to the Permanent Residence Portal.
- Start an application for a Permanent Resident Travel Document.
- Complete the digital IMM 5444.
- Enter your permanent resident history and all requested travel information.
- Complete IMM 5644 and upload it.
- Upload your current passport copy and copies of passports or travel documents used during the previous 5 years.
- Upload evidence showing that you meet the residency obligation.
- Upload additional evidence for qualifying time outside Canada if applicable.
- Pay the $50 processing fee.
- Upload the payment receipt.
- Digitally sign the application by entering your full name exactly as shown on your passport.
- Submit the complete application.
Can you apply for a PRTD on paper?
Online application is the standard process.
If you cannot apply online and require an accommodation, including for accessibility reasons, IRCC permits a paper application.
If applying on paper, contact the nearest visa application centre before submitting because paper PRTD services depend on the country and VAC.
You must validate and print IMM 5444, include IMM 5644 and all supporting documents, and submit the package according to the applicable VAC instructions.
How much does a PRTD cost in 2026?
The federal PRTD processing fee is $50 per person.
Each family member who needs a PRTD must submit their own complete application and pay the applicable fee.
The processing fee is not refundable once IRCC has started processing the application or if the application is refused.
How long does PRTD processing take?
IRCC does not currently publish a fixed PRTD processing time.
IRCC states that PRTD applications are processed on a priority basis. Actual timing depends on factors such as:
- whether the application is complete;
- how easily IRCC can verify your permanent resident status and travel history;
- whether additional residency evidence is required;
- how quickly you respond to IRCC requests;
- whether an interview or further review is necessary.
Can you request urgent PRTD processing?
Yes. IRCC allows urgent requests in qualifying circumstances.
For an urgent PRTD, you must generally show that your return travel is within the next 5 days and that the urgency relates to circumstances such as:
- your own serious illness;
- the serious illness or death of a family member;
- your PR card being lost or stolen while you were temporarily travelling outside Canada;
- a crisis, emergency or vulnerable situation;
- another reason an officer considers legitimate.
What do you need for urgent PRTD processing?
Include:
- proof of travel showing the destination and travel dates;
- proof that the travel was paid for, showing the date, amount and method of payment;
- a letter explaining why the application is urgent and stating your travel date;
- proof supporting the urgency, such as a doctor's note, death certificate or employer letter;
- English or French translations where required.
If applying online, select Yes, my request is urgent in the Permanent Residence Portal.
If applying on paper, write Urgent on the envelope.
IRCC does not guarantee that an urgent PRTD will be issued before your travel date.
What if you do not meet the 730-day residency obligation?
A PRTD application includes a formal assessment of whether you continue to meet your permanent resident residency obligation.
If you do not meet the normal residency requirement, you can provide information and supporting documents asking IRCC to consider humanitarian and compassionate circumstances relevant to retaining your permanent resident status.
These circumstances are assessed individually. Providing humanitarian and compassionate evidence does not guarantee approval.
Can you return to Canada without a PRTD in a private vehicle?
The PRTD requirement applies primarily to commercial transportation.
IRCC states that if you are returning in a private vehicle such as a car, truck, motorcycle or recreational vehicle that you own, borrow or rent, you may use other documents to demonstrate your permanent resident status at the Canadian border.
A Record of Landing or Confirmation of Permanent Residence is not accepted by commercial carriers as a substitute for a valid PR card or PRTD.
Is a PRTD single-entry or multiple-entry?
A PRTD is normally issued for one entry to Canada.
IRCC can consider a multiple-entry PRTD if you meet the residency obligation and provide a cover letter explaining why multiple entries are needed.
A multiple-entry PRTD cannot be valid beyond the expiry date of your passport.
What happens after you submit the PRTD application?
IRCC first checks whether the application is complete.
An officer then assesses:
- whether you are still a Canadian permanent resident;
- whether you meet the residency obligation;
- your identity and travel history;
- any qualifying time outside Canada;
- other evidence relevant to your application.
Most decisions are made based on the documents submitted, although IRCC can request an interview or additional information.
What happens if your PRTD application is approved?
If IRCC approves your application, you receive an email explaining how and where to submit your valid passport or travel document.
IRCC then places the PRTD counterfoil in your passport or travel document and returns it to you.
You can use the PRTD to board commercial transportation to Canada while it remains valid.
What happens if your PRTD application is refused?
If IRCC refuses the application, you receive a refusal letter explaining the reasons and your appeal rights.
If you decide to appeal the determination, follow the instructions and Notice of Appeal information included with the refusal decision.
A PRTD refusal based on failure to meet the residency obligation can have serious consequences for permanent resident status, so review the decision and deadlines carefully.
Does a PRTD replace your PR card?
No. A PRTD is a temporary travel document used primarily to return to Canada.
After you return, apply for a new PR card or renew your expired card from inside Canada.
IRCC does not issue PR cards to people who are outside Canada and does not mail PR cards overseas.
PRTD application checklist
- Confirm that you are currently outside Canada.
- Confirm that you still have permanent resident status.
- Confirm that you do not have a valid PR card.
- Review your travel history for the previous 5 years.
- Calculate whether you meet the 730-day residency obligation.
- Identify any qualifying days spent outside Canada.
- Prepare your valid passport copy.
- Copy all pages of passports and travel documents used during the previous 5 years.
- Gather at least 2 pieces of evidence showing that you meet the residency obligation.
- Complete IMM 5444 in the Permanent Residence Portal.
- Complete and upload IMM 5644.
- Pay the $50 fee and upload the receipt.
- Provide translations where required.
- Include humanitarian and compassionate evidence if you are requesting consideration on that basis.
- If travel is within 5 days and your circumstances qualify, request urgent processing and provide proof.
- Monitor your email and application status for IRCC requests.
- If approved, submit your original passport only when IRCC instructs you to do so.
- After returning to Canada, apply for or renew your PR card.
Frequently asked questions
Who needs a Permanent Resident Travel Document to return to Canada?
A Canadian permanent resident who is outside Canada without a valid PR card generally needs a PRTD to return by commercial transportation such as an airplane, train, bus or commercial boat.
How much does a PRTD cost in Canada in 2026?
The IRCC processing fee is $50 per person. Translation, courier and visa application centre services may create additional third-party costs.
Can I apply for a PRTD online?
Yes. IRCC allows permanent residents outside Canada to apply online through the Permanent Residence Portal using the digital IMM 5444 application and IMM 5644 document checklist.
What documents do I need for a PRTD?
You generally need your current valid passport, copies of all pages of passports or travel documents used during the previous 5 years, IMM 5644, proof of payment and at least 2 pieces of evidence showing that you meet the permanent resident residency obligation.
How many days must I have lived in Canada to get a PRTD?
If you have been a permanent resident for at least 5 years, you normally need at least 730 qualifying days during the 5 years immediately before you apply. If you have been a PR for less than 5 years, you must be able to accumulate 730 qualifying days within your first 5 years as a permanent resident.
Can time outside Canada count toward the 730-day PR residency requirement?
Yes, in specific situations such as qualifying employment outside Canada, accompanying a Canadian citizen spouse, common-law partner or parent, or accompanying a permanent resident who meets qualifying Canadian employment conditions.
How long does a PRTD take to process?
IRCC does not currently publish a fixed processing time for PRTDs. It states that these applications are processed on a priority basis, but timing depends on completeness, verification and the individual case.
Can I get an urgent PRTD?
You can request urgent processing if your return travel is within the next 5 days and you have a qualifying reason such as serious illness, a family member's serious illness or death, a lost or stolen PR card during temporary travel, a crisis or another reason accepted by an officer.
Does urgent PRTD processing guarantee I can catch my flight?
No. IRCC specifically states that even if you qualify for urgent processing, it cannot guarantee that you will receive the PRTD in time.
Can I apply for a PRTD while I am in Canada?
No. A PRTD is for permanent residents who are outside Canada. If you are inside Canada, apply for or renew a permanent resident card instead.
Can I apply for a PR card while I am outside Canada?
No. IRCC does not issue PR cards to applicants outside Canada. If you need commercial transportation back to Canada without a valid PR card, apply for a PRTD and then renew your PR card after returning.
Can I return to Canada by car without a valid PR card or PRTD?
IRCC states that permanent residents returning in a private vehicle may use other documents to establish their status at the border. The commercial carrier requirement for a valid PR card or PRTD does not apply in the same way to a private vehicle.
Is a PRTD valid for multiple trips?
A PRTD is normally valid for one entry. IRCC can consider a multiple-entry PRTD if you meet the residency obligation and include a cover letter explaining your circumstances. A multiple-entry document cannot extend beyond the expiry of your passport.
What happens if my PRTD application is refused?
IRCC sends a refusal letter explaining the reasons and your appeal rights. Follow the Notice of Appeal instructions included with the decision if you intend to challenge the refusal.
Can I apply for a PRTD if I do not meet the 730-day residency requirement?
You can submit evidence asking IRCC to consider humanitarian and compassionate circumstances relevant to retaining your permanent resident status. The decision is case-specific and approval is not guaranteed.
Does my PR status end when my PR card expires?
No. An expired PR card does not automatically end permanent resident status. Your status continues until it is formally lost under Canadian immigration law.
Official sources
IRCC - Permanent resident travel document: About the processIRCC - Permanent resident travel document: Who can applyIRCC - Permanent resident travel document: How to applyIRCC - Permanent resident travel document: After you applyIRCC - Guide 5529: Applying for a Permanent Resident Travel DocumentIRCC - IMM 5444 Application for a Permanent Resident Card or Permanent Resident Travel DocumentIRCC - Apply urgently for a PR card or Permanent Resident Travel DocumentIRCC - Travelling outside Canada as a permanent residentIRCC - Understand permanent resident statusRelated procedures
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