A Permanent Resident Travel Document (PRTD) is a one-time travel visa issued by IRCC for permanent residents who are outside Canada without a valid PR card and need to return via commercial transportation (plane, bus, boat, or train).

Who Can Apply

You can apply for a PRTD if:

• You hold valid permanent resident status in Canada (regardless of whether you currently reside there).
• You are outside Canada.
• You do not have a valid PR card (e.g. it’s expired, lost, or stolen).
• You intend to return to Canada via a commercial carrier.

How to Apply

1. Obtain the application package: This includes Form IMM 5644 (checklist), and any additional forms like IMM 5476 (if using a representative).
2. Pay the non-refundable application fee of CAD $50, keep the receipt.
3. Submit supporting documents, including:
   • Passport(s) with all pages issued in the past five years.
   • Evidence of PR status (e.g. Record of Landing or COPR).
   • Proof of meeting residency obligations (e.g. pay stubs, tax assessments, lease agreements).
4. Submit through the Permanent Residence Portal or by mail to IRCC abroad, following guidance for your region.

Validity & Entry Limitations

• Most PRTDs are issued for single entry, valid up to six months—though multiple-entry versions for up to a year may be granted in special circumstances.
• Once used to re-enter Canada, the PRTD becomes invalid—even if its official validity period isn’t over.

Processing Time & Urgent Requests

• Typical processing time: 2–8 weeks, varying by visa office and application completeness.
• Urgent processing may be granted for reasons such as serious illness, death of a family member, or upcoming employment obligations—especially if travel is within 3 weeks.
• Reddit reports from India suggest urgent cases processed in as little as 4 weeks, while non-urgent may take up to 5 weeks or more.

Common Pitfalls & Reddit Insights

• Incomplete applications are frequently returned without processing—often due to missing passport pages or insufficient evidence of residency.
• Must include “2 distinct evidence documents” proving compliance with residency obligations—driver’s licence alone is insufficient.
• You cannot apply from inside Canada; applications must be started while abroad. The option remains disabled in portal if you’re still in Canada.
• Online application processing may require sending a physical passport to a VFS center, which then hands it over to IRCC. Processing time includes shipping/return.

Quick Comparison Table

What You Should Do Next

1. Check your PR card status—if invalid or missing and you’re abroad, plan to apply now.
2. Compile supporting documents for residency obligation proof—such as CRA assessments, lease agreements, pay stubs, or notification of benefit receipt.
3. Decide whether you need urgent processing—particularly if travel is within 3 weeks.
4. Submit via online portal or mail, ensuring all passport pages and forms are included.
5. Once you’re back in Canada, apply promptly for a new PR card to avoid future travel complications.

Final Takeaway

A PRTD provides a critical bridge for permanent residents abroad without a valid PR card—but only for one-time re-entry. Proper documentation, compliance with residency rules, and timely submission—especially from abroad—are essential to avoid delays or rejection. Upon return, don’t delay applying for a PR card.

Need help checking your eligibility, reviewing documents, or preparing your PRTD application? I’d be happy to assist!