Immigration Announcement
IRCC Confirms Mandatory Fee for Permanent Resident Travel Document Applications Abroad
The Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has clarified an important update for Canadians abroad who need a Permanent Resident Travel Document (PRTD). Effective October 9, 2025, all PRTD applications submitted outside Canada under subsection 31(3) of the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (IRPA) must include a $50 fee.
This update confirms that no fee exemptions or refunds are allowed. Permanent residents without a valid PR card will need this document to return to Canada after meeting residency obligations, making it an essential requirement for international travel.
Understanding the Role of a Permanent Resident Travel Document
A Permanent Resident Travel Document is a travel document for permanent residents who are outside Canada and do not have a valid PR card. It ensures that airlines and border authorities recognize the individual’s legal status in Canada.
Without a PRTD, permanent residents may face challenges boarding flights or returning home. The document also verifies that applicants meet the residency obligation living in Canada for at least 730 days within the last five years.
What the Update Changes
The latest IRCC guidance focuses on clarifying fee rules for Permanent Resident Travel Document applications abroad. Previously, there was some uncertainty regarding whether fees applied in certain situations. The updated instructions now make it clear:
| Update Detail | Explanation |
| Effective Date | October 9, 2025 |
| Fee Amount | $50 CAD per application |
| Exemptions | None, fee applies to all applicants |
| Refunds | Fees are non-refundable and cannot be waived |
| Legal Reference | Subsection 31(3) of IRPA and Regulation 315 |
IRCC stresses that applications without the fee will not be processed, so it’s crucial to include the payment when applying.
Why This Matters for Permanent Residents
This update ensures clarity for Canadians living abroad and standardizes processing for all visa offices. Permanent residents planning to return to Canada should now factor in the fee to avoid delays or rejected applications.
It also highlights the importance of keeping residency obligations up to date, as the PRTD confirms eligibility to return to Canada as a permanent resident.
Steps to Apply for a Permanent Resident Travel Document Abroad
Here’s a quick guide for permanent residents applying for a PRTD under the new fee policy:
- Check Residency Status: Confirm you meet the requirement of 730 days in Canada over the last five years.
- Complete the Application Form: Use the official PRTD form from the IRCC website.
- Include the $50 Fee: Payment must accompany the application. Incomplete submissions will not be processed.
- Submit to a Visa Office Abroad: Send your complete package to the nearest Canadian visa office or VFS Global center.
- Await Decision: Processing times vary by location, so apply well ahead of travel plans.
The IRCC update on Permanent Resident Travel Documents is a crucial reminder for Canadians abroad. Starting October 9, 2025, every PRTD application must include a $50 fee, and no exceptions exist. By understanding and following these rules, permanent residents can ensure a smooth return to Canada while maintaining their status. The PRTD remains a vital tool for international travel and legal compliance for permanent residents.
