Keeping Permanent Residence: The PR Card and the 730-Day Rule

Under the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act, a permanent resident must meet a residency obligation: being physically present in Canada for at least 730 days (two years) in every five-year period.

The 730-day rule

• The days don't have to be continuous.
• Some time outside Canada can count, for example accompanying a Canadian citizen spouse, or working outside Canada for a Canadian business in some cases.

The PR card

• Usually valid for five years.
• You need a valid PR card (or a permanent resident travel document, PRTD) to return to Canada by commercial carrier.
• Apply to renew within the time IRCC recommends before it expires.

If you don't meet the obligation

An officer may decide you have lost PR status. You can usually appeal to the Immigration Appeal Division, including on humanitarian grounds.

Records to keep

• Travel history and passport stamps
• Proof of residence in Canada: lease, work, school and tax records

Getting help

Immigration matters must be handled by a lawyer or a licensed immigration consultant. NEO can commission or notarize your documents.

Sources

• Immigration and Refugee Protection Act
• IRCC: PR card

Read next: Visitor Visa Refused? Understanding Why and Applying Again

General Ontario legal information, not legal advice for your matter, and reading it does not create a retainer. Sources checked 16 October 2026: check the current law, forms and dates before you act.

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This article is general information for people in Ontario, not legal advice. Rules, forms and deadlines change, and every situation is different. Check the current rule or speak to a licensed legal professional before you act.