Get your first PR card

Overview

Get your first PR card

Most new permanent residents do not file a separate first-card application. IRCC normally produces the card after receiving the Canadian address and acceptable photograph within 180 days of the person becoming a permanent resident.

Provide the address and photograph through the correct process

The route depends on whether status was confirmed at a port of entry or virtually inside Canada.Source [1]

At a port of entry, provide the Canadian address to the officer or update IRCC within the required period. For virtual confirmation, provide the address and digital photograph through the PR Portal.

Monitor messages in case the photograph is rejected or more information is requested.

Do not apply again without checking

A duplicate application can add confusion when the automatic card process is already underway. Check status and follow IRCC instructions if the card has not arrived.

A separate first-card application is generally needed when the address and photograph were not provided within 180 days.

Plan travel before the card arrives

A new permanent resident who leaves Canada without a valid PR card may need a permanent resident travel document to board commercial transportation back to Canada. COPR or e-COPR is not the usual commercial boarding document.

Do not assume urgent travel will make the first card arrive sooner.

Check the delivered card

Compare the name, photograph, date of birth and other information with the status records. IRCC uses different correction routes depending on who made the error and when it is reported.

Keep the card secure and retain the COPR separately.