• by MyWorld Immigration

Permanent Resident vs. Refugee Travel Documents in Canada: Expert Immigration Consultant Explains

By Harminder Singh Saini, RCIC–IRB | MyWorld Immigration Services Ltd.

For residents of Canada, travelling abroad requires the correct documentation to ensure smooth re-entry. While Canadian citizens use passports, Permanent Residents (PRs) and protected persons need specific travel documents. Knowing the differences between these documents is critical for hassle-free international travel.

Permanent Resident Travel Documents (PRTD)

Permanent residents of Canada cannot hold a Canadian passport unless they become citizens. To return to Canada after travelling, PRs must have either:

• A valid Permanent Resident Card (PR Card), or
• A Permanent Resident Travel Document (PRTD) if the PR card is unavailable.

Permanent Resident Card (PR Card)

• Official proof of permanent resident status.
• Required for re-entry to Canada by air, train, bus, or boat.
• Typically valid for 5 years (some cards are valid for 1 year).
• Must be renewed if expired before travel.

Permanent Resident Travel Document (PRTD)

• Temporary solution for PRs outside Canada without a valid PR card.
• Confirms permanent resident status and eligibility to return to Canada.
• Requires an application to IRCC with supporting documents and a fee.
• Applicants must meet residency obligations and maintain PR status.

Eligibility Criteria for PR Card and PRTD

• Must have permanent resident status in Canada.
• Must not be under a removal order or have criminal convictions related to PR status misuse.
• PR card eligibility requires physical presence in Canada.

Refugee Travel Documents

A Refugee Travel Document is issued to protected persons in Canada, including Convention refugees or persons in need of protection, who cannot obtain a passport from their country of citizenship due to persecution or other compelling reasons.

Key Points:

• Cannot be used to travel to the applicant’s country of citizenship.
• Must be applied for from within Canada through IRCC.
• Requires proof of protected status, supporting documents, and a fee.
• Processing times vary, but urgent cases—such as humanitarian emergencies or family reunification—may be expedited.

PRTD vs. Refugee Travel Document: Key Differences

Both documents allow international travel and re-entry to Canada, but Refugee Travel Documents generally involve more complex verification due to legal and protection considerations.

Expert Advice from Harminder Singh Saini, RCIC–IRB

If you are a Permanent Resident or protected person, it is crucial to know which travel document applies to your situation before making international travel plans. Using the wrong document or traveling without one can result in denied entry, delays, or complications.

At MyWorld Immigration Services Ltd., we provide professional guidance on travel documents, re-entry requirements, and immigration compliance. Our team ensures your applications are accurate, complete, and IRCC-compliant, giving you confidence when travelling internationally.

Contact MyWorld Immigration Services Ltd.

Harminder Singh Saini, RCIC–IRB — Licensed Canadian Immigration Consultant
Email: info@myworldimmigration.com
Website: www.myworldimmigration.com
WhatsApp: +1-672-399-0000
Instagram: @myworldimmigration

MyWorld Immigration Services Ltd. — Expert guidance on PR and Refugee Travel Document applications to make your international travel safe, smooth, and stress-free.