Have you ever been stuck outside Canada as a permanent resident without your PR card? Don’t worry—you’re not alone, and there’s a solution. It’s called the PRTD – Permanent Resident Travel Document.
In simple words, a PRTD is a special document that allows permanent residents of Canada to return to Canada if they don’t have a valid PR card with them while they’re abroad. If you're in India or any other country and your PR card has expired or is lost, this is the document you need.
At IRA Immigration, we often help clients stuck in this situation, and we know how confusing it can be. So, in this blog, we’ll explain what the Permanent Resident Travel Document is, who needs it, how to apply, and what to expect during the process.
What is a PRTD – Permanent Resident Travel Document?
Let’s say you’ve been living in Canada as a permanent resident. Then you travel to India, but before you return, you realize your PR card is lost, stolen, or expired. Without a valid PR card, you can’t board your flight back to Canada.
This is where the PRTD – Permanent Resident Travel Document comes in. It is issued by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) and is placed inside your passport. It allows you to return to Canada just once and only by a commercial carrier, like an airplane, boat, or bus.
This is especially helpful for permanent residents visiting family in India who forget to renew their PR card or lose it during their trip.
Who Should Apply for a PRTD?
You should apply for a Permanent Resident Travel Document if:
- You are a Canadian permanent resident
- You are currently outside Canada
- You do not have a valid PR card
- You want to return to Canada using a commercial transport option
It’s important to remember that the PRTD is only for single use. Once you're back in Canada, you should immediately apply to renew or replace your PR card.
At IRA Immigration, we guide you through every step of this process so you don’t feel lost or overwhelmed.
How to Apply for a PRTD from India or Outside Canada
If you’re in India or any other country outside Canada, applying for the PRTD – Permanent Resident Travel Document involves these steps:
- Fill Out the Application (IMM 5524): This is the official form used to apply for the travel document.
- Gather Supporting Documents: This includes your passport, photos, expired or lost PR card (if available), and proof of your permanent resident status.
- Write a Letter of Explanation: This helps the visa officer understand why you need the PRTD.
- Submit Your Application to the Visa Office: Depending on where you are, this may be done online or through a Visa Application Centre (VAC).
- Wait for Processing and Instructions: Once approved, you’ll receive instructions for passport submission for PRTD, which simply means sending your passport so they can attach the travel document.
The process might sound long, but with expert help from IRA Immigration, we make it much smoother for you.
What Does Passport Submission for PRTD Mean?
Many people ask us: "Passport submission for PRTD means what exactly?" It’s simple!
Once your application is approved, you’ll get a message asking you to send in your original passport. The visa office needs your passport so they can place the Permanent Resident Travel Document inside it. This is the official document that lets you board your flight back to Canada.
You must send your passport as per the instructions and timelines given to you. At IRA Immigration, we always double-check these details for our clients to avoid any delay.
Understanding PRTD Processing Time
One of the most common questions we get is: “What’s the PRTD processing time?”
The PRTD processing time can vary depending on where you are applying from. Usually, it takes anywhere from 2 to 8 weeks, but this depends on:
- The country you're applying from (e.g., India vs Europe)
- The visa office workload
- Whether your application is complete and accurate
- If additional documents are requested
PRTD Processing Time in India
For people applying from India, the PRTD processing time in India is typically 3 to 5 weeks, though it can sometimes take longer if demand is high.
PRTD Processing Time Outside Canada (Other Countries)
For applicants in other countries, the PRTD processing time outside Canada ranges from 2 to 6 weeks. Countries with busy visa offices may take more time.
Our team at IRA Immigration keeps track of these timelines and updates clients so they know what to expect.
Tips to Make Your PRTD Application Smooth and Fast
Here are a few helpful tips to avoid delays:
- Double-check your documents. Make sure everything is clear and complete.
- Write a clear explanation letter. Tell your story honestly—why you're outside Canada, when you plan to return, and why you need a PRTD.
- Submit early. Don’t wait until the last minute to apply, especially if you have travel plans.
- Follow up regularly. Keep checking your email and messages for updates or requests from IRCC.
Need help with any of this? Just call IRA Immigration, and we’ll take care of it for you.
Why Choose IRA Immigration for Your PRTD Application?
When you’re far from home and facing immigration issues, you need someone you can trust. IRA Immigration is here for you.
Here’s why clients prefer us:
- We have years of experience in Canadian immigration
- Our team stays updated on PRTD processing time and application trends
- We offer personalized support—no cookie-cutter answers!
- We handle your paperwork carefully to reduce errors or delays
If you’re in India or any other country and need to return to Canada quickly, IRA Immigration will guide you through the Permanent Resident Travel Document application with confidence and care.
In Conclusion
Being stuck outside Canada without a PR card is stressful, but the PRTD – Permanent Resident Travel Document makes it possible for you to return safely. Whether you're in India or another country, understanding the process and timelines is key.
The good news? You don’t have to handle it alone. At IRA Immigration, we make the journey easier. From understanding what passport submission for PRTD means to tracking the PRTD processing time in India, our team ensures you’re never left in the dark.
If you need to apply for a PRTD, reach out to IRA Immigration today. Let’s bring you back home to Canada—safely, legally, and with full peace of mind.
