What Documents Are Required for PRTD Canada?

Documents Required for PRTD

If you are a Canadian permanent resident outside Canada and your PR card is lost, stolen, expired, or unavailable, you will need a Permanent Resident Travel Document (PRTD) to return to Canada by a commercial carrier.

One of the most common reasons for PRTD delays or refusals is incomplete or incorrect documentation. In this guide, we clearly explain the documents required for PRTD, who needs them, and how to prepare them properly to avoid rejection.

What Is a PRTD and Why Documents Matter?

A Permanent Resident Travel Document (PRTD) is a one-time travel document issued to Canadian permanent residents who are outside Canada and do not have a valid PR card.

IRCC uses your documents to:

• Confirm your PR status
• Verify you meet the residency obligation
• Establish your identity and travel history

Submitting the correct documents is essential for faster processing and approval.

Documents Required for PRTD (Mandatory List)

Below is the official and most important list of documents required for PRTD Canada, based on IRCC guidelines.

1. Completed PRTD Application Form

You must submit a completed and signed PRTD application through:

• The Permanent Residence Portal (online)
  or
• Paper application (if applicable)

Ensure:

• All fields are filled correctly
• Information matches your passport and PR records
• No spelling or date errors

2. Valid Passport (Most Important Document)

You must provide:

• A copy of your current valid passport
• Copies of all pages (including blank pages)
• Copies of all passports used in the last 5 years

Do not send original passports unless IRCC specifically asks for submission after approval.

3. Proof of Permanent Resident Status

To prove that you are a Canadian permanent resident, submit any of the following:

• Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR)
• Record of Landing (IMM 1000)
• Expired PR card (if available)
• Previous PRTD (if issued earlier)

This is a mandatory requirement in the documents required for PRTD.

4. Proof of Residency Obligation (Very Important)

IRCC requires proof that you have met the 730 days in Canada within the last 5 years, or that you qualify under humanitarian grounds.

Accepted documents include:

• Employment letters or pay slips from Canada
• Bank statements showing activity in Canada
• CRA Notices of Assessment
• Rental or lease agreements
• Utility bills
• Travel history records
• School records (if applicable)

If you do not meet the residency obligation, you must submit strong humanitarian and compassionate evidence.

5. PRTD Application Fee Receipt

You must pay the PRTD processing fee (CAD $50) and upload the payment receipt.

Without proof of payment, your application will not be processed.

6. Photographs (If Required)

Photos may be required if:

• Your previous PR card was refused due to photo issues
• IRCC specifically requests them

Photos must meet IRCC photo specifications.

Additional Documents Required for PRTD (If Applicable)

Depending on your situation, you may need to submit extra documents.

For Minors (Under 18)

• Birth certificate
• Parental consent letter
• Custody or guardianship documents (if applicable)
• Parent’s PR proof

If Using a Representative

If someone is assisting you with your application:

• Use of a Representative Form (IMM 5476)

For Chinese Passport Holders

• Inquiry of Exit & Entry Record from China
• Certified English or French translation

Important Things to Remember When Submitting Documents

Submit clear scanned copies
Ensure names and dates match across all documents
Do not submit originals unless asked
Upload documents in the correct format
Keep all files readable and complete

Incomplete documentation is one of the top reasons for PRTD refusal.

Online vs Paper Application: Which Documents Are Needed?

Online Application (Recommended)

• Faster processing
• Easier document upload
• Track status online

Paper Application

• Requires photocopies
• Slower processing
• Originals are not returned

The documents required for PRTD remain the same for both methods.

After Getting Your PRTD

Once your PRTD is approved:

• It will be stamped in your passport
• It allows one-time entry to Canada only
• You must apply for a new PR card immediately after arrival

Final Thoughts

Understanding the documents required for PRTD is the key to a successful application. Submitting accurate, complete, and well-organized documents can significantly reduce delays and increase approval chances.

If you are unsure about residency proof or humanitarian grounds, professional guidance can help avoid refusal.