What is a Permanent Resident Travel Document (PRTD)?

A typical PRTD looks like a regular visa counterfoil. IRCC attaches the PRTD to your passport. You may then use it as a single entry visa to Canada.

What is the validity of a PRTD?

A typical PRTD has the date of expiry mentioned in visa stamped on Passport. As mentioned earlier, as soon as you enter Canada, the PRTD becomes invalid. Consequently, you may not use a PRTD twice; even it has been less than six months since the day of issuance. Also, while it is not common, the immigration officer may choose to limit the validity of the PRTD to less than six months or extend it beyond six months.

When a PRTD becomes necessary

If your PR card expires or you lose it, you’ll face difficulty returning to Canada. Of course, it won’t be a significant issue if you are inside Canada, as you can apply for a new one. However, for those who are outside Canada, two main options exist:

• If you are in the United States, you may travel by private vehicle to a land crossing. Nonetheless, you must convince the border officer you meet the residency obligations, and you are not inadmissible to Canada. If convinced, they will let you in without issues. However, if they doubt you meet the requirements, they usually let you in but initiate your removal process.
• In other circumstances, you must apply for a PRTD or, rather, a Permanent Resident Travel Document. Of course, you may only travel when you receive the PRTD.