In a recent article published by the Toronto Star, concerns were raised about the length of time it takes for new immigrants to receive their official immigration documents in Canada. The story reported that some newly-approved immigrants are stuck in Canada for months awaiting their Permanent Resident cards (PR cards) from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
The PR cards are more than just a form of identification. They serve as a vital travel document for permanent residents, essential for re-entry into Canada. Not having a PR card can severely hinder an immigrant’s ability to travel outside of Canada, especially in cases of emergency.
According to data from IRCC quoted by the Toronto Star, over 70,000 new Canadian Permanent Residents were waiting for their first PR card at the time the article was published. However, IRCC does provide a pathway for certain new immigrants to apply for urgent processing of their PR cards.
Those eligible for urgent PR card processing are Canadian permanent residents who have a valid reason to travel outside the country, such as a job opportunity, a serious illness, the death of a family member, or work related to their current job. It’s important to note that qualifying for urgent processing does not guarantee that a new PR will receive their card on time, as processing times can vary.
For those who are not eligible for urgent processing, alternate options such as a Permanent Resident Travel Document (PRTD) are available. A PRTD is a one-time travel document for permanent residents outside of Canada without a valid PR Card.
To prove that you need your PR card processed urgently, you must submit supporting documents alongside your request. These documents may include proof of travel, a receipt, and a letter explaining the reason for urgency.
It’s crucial to ensure that all necessary documentation is included with your application to avoid any delays in processing. For more information and clarification on eligibility for Canadian immigration, visit the official Canada Visa website.
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