Permanent resident cards are government-issued identification given to Canadian permanent residents. Permanent residents are people who have immigrated to Canada permanently, but who are not yet Canadian citizens. They need to renew their permanent resident card every five years or they can run into problems because the permanent resident card is what allows permanent residents back into Canada after traveling abroad. 
Citizenship and Immigration Canada recommends that you renew your card six months before it is set to expire so that you receive your new card in time.
Anyone who is renewing their permanent resident card must ensure that they are physically present in Canada and have been physically present in Canada for two of the last five years, otherwise they can experience problems with their application and may not be able to maintain their permanent residency status. If this applies to you, speak to an immigration lawyer.
Renewing your permanent resident card in Canada
Step 1: The immigration application for renewing your permanent resident card should be filled out completely with no blank spaces. If something does not apply to you, be sure to write “not applicable” in the space.
Step 2: Each application form comes with a document checklist that tells you what supporting documents you need to include in your application. Make sure that your documents are formatted properly and that they are all included.
Step 3: A licensed immigration lawyer can be your best resource when it comes to ensuring that your application has been formatted properly, and that there are no errors that could result in a denial. Speak with one about your application.
Step 4: Pay your fee for processing and submit your application. It’s recommended that you submit it via courier and retain a copy of the courier slip.
President & CEO
Michael Niren
Mr. Niren is CEO of VisaPlace LLC and the President and Managing Partner of VisaPlace Legal Canada, an immigration law firm based in Toronto, and VisaPlace Legal US a law firm registered in The District of Columbia, USA. Mr. Niren is a graduate of Osgoode Hall Law School in Toronto, a member of the Law Society of Upper Canada, the Canadian Bar Association’s Citizenship and Immigration Section, American Lawyers Association, and an Associate Member of the American Bar Association.
