Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) stands as a Federal Department responsible for granting different forms of permanent residency statuses (PR), similar to Canadian passports. Not to mention, such permanent residents come with many extended benefits, including access to top-notch healthcare services and the ability to participate actively in democracy; the list is endless. However, obtaining a permanent resident travel document (PRTD) is another significant benefit that comes with a Canadian permanent residency. As the name suggests, the permanent resident travel document is an essential record that comes in handy on any commercial carrier. Beyond serving as a vital travel document, a permanent resident travel document also acts as a verification of one’s permanent resident status in Canada, especially in scenarios where the permanent resident card (PR Card) is not available. This blog will discuss everything about the Permanent Resident Travel Document, its eligibility criteria, and outlines its crucial role.
The Permanent Resident Travel Document is a significant travel document issued by the Canadian government for permanent residents who are outside of Canada and do not possess a valid permanent resident card to return to the country. It is crucial for individuals to provide a valid permanent resident travel document to board a commercial transportation (like an airplane) that enables them to return to Canada. A Permanent Resident Travel Document is needed under the following circumstances:
Travelling without a Permanent Resident Travel Document can result in denied entry. Significantly, it is the responsibility of the individuals to make sure that their PR card remains active when returning back to Canada. Additionally, individuals must pay attention towards obtaining a new PR card before their current card expires.
To maintain permanent resident status in Canada, one is required to meet the eligibility criteria:
Individuals who fulfill the eligibility criteria for a Permanent Resident Travel Document can submit their application. It is important to note that upon submission of the application, a visa officer will review it to make sure that it meets the residency obligations. In those circumstances, when individuals fail to meet the residency obligations, their status as permanent residents may be at risk. Residency obligation can be defined as an individual’s physical presence inside Canada for a set amount of time. It outlines that a person must be physically present inside Canada for at least 730 days within 5 years or fall under one of several exceptions.
Permanent Resident Travel Document is a vital document that also facilitates verification of one’s permanent resident status in Canada in those cases where the permanent resident card (PR Card) is unavailable. However, travelling without a Permanent Resident Travel Document results in the denied entry and also causes severe legal repercussions. It is recommended that individuals must keep their PR cards active when coming back to Canada. They should also get a new PR card before the old one expires. However, managing permanent resident status and ensuring all documentation is up to date can be complex and sometimes overwhelming. In such scenarios, the expertise of Citizenship Lawyer becomes exceptionally crucial. Whether seeking expert advice on maintaining your permanent resident status or considering renewing your PR card, rely upon Canadian Citizenship Lawyer. With a seasoned team of lawyers, we are capable of securing your PR status and ensuring peace of mind. Trust in our expertise for a future where your rights and status in Canada are protected.
