Permanent Residence & Citizenship
Once you become a permanent resident, you may need to renew your PR card to maintain your status. After meeting residency requirements, you can apply for Canadian citizenship.
PR Card Renewal
When to Renew
Your PR card is valid for 5 years. You should renew it if:
- • Your card has expired or will expire within 9 months
- • Your card has been lost, stolen, or damaged
- • Your name or other information has changed
- • You're a child whose photo no longer looks like you
Residency Obligations
2 out of 5 Years Rule
You must be physically present in Canada for at least 730 days (2 years) in every 5-year period.
Time that counts:
- • Days physically present in Canada
- • Days accompanying Canadian citizen spouse abroad
- • Days working for Canadian business abroad
- • Days accompanying PR spouse on authorized assignment
Canadian Citizenship
Eligibility Requirements
- • Permanent resident status
- • 3 years (1,095 days) in Canada in last 5 years
- • Filed income taxes (if required)
- • Language proficiency (CLB 4)
- • Pass citizenship test
- • No criminal record
Citizenship Test
- • Canadian history, values, symbols
- • Institutions and systems of government
- • Geography and regions
- • English or French language skills
- • Online or in-person format
- • Pass mark: 15/20 (75%)
Benefits of Citizenship
Right to vote and run for political office
Canadian passport for visa-free travel
Protection under Canadian law worldwide
No residency obligations
Pass citizenship to children born abroad
Access to certain government jobs
Full Charter rights and freedoms
How We Help
PR card renewal eligibility assessment
Residency calculation and documentation
Citizenship eligibility evaluation
Application preparation and submission
Citizenship test preparation
Interview preparation and representation
Appeals and complex cases
Quick Facts
PR Renewal
2-4 months
Citizenship
12-18 months
Result
Permanent/Citizenship
Key Features
- PR obligations apply
- Residency requirements
- Language requirements
- Citizenship test required
- Ceremony attendance
Application Fees
PR Card: $50 CAD
Citizenship (Adult): $630 CAD
Citizenship (Minor): $100 CAD
Ready to Apply?
Get expert guidance on your PR renewal or citizenship application.