PRTD (Permanent Resident Travel Document)
A PRTD, or Permanent Resident Travel Document, is a travel document that a Canadian permanent resident outside Canada needs to return by plane, boat, train, or bus when they do not have a valid PR card.
How it works
You apply to IRCC from outside Canada. The officer checks that you are a permanent resident and whether you met the residency obligation of 730 days in the last 5 years, or have humanitarian reasons.
If approved, you get a PRTD (a visa counterfoil in your passport) to travel back. If refused because of the residency obligation, you can usually appeal to the Immigration Appeal Division within 60 days, and your status continues during the appeal.
PRs can also enter at a US land border without a PR card, but the officer may review residency. See our PRTD guide and PR card.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a PRTD if my PR card expired?
Yes, if you are outside Canada and returning by air or other commercial carrier.
What if I do not meet the 730-day rule?
You can explain humanitarian reasons. If refused, you can usually appeal to the IAD.
Can I enter Canada without a PRTD?
By private vehicle at a land border, yes, but the officer can review your residency.
Official sources
- IRCC: PR cardcanada.ca
General information, not legal advice. NorthAmericans.com is independent and not affiliated with any government.