New Fees Announced for PR Travel Document Applications Abroad
Canada’s Immigration Update: Standardizing Permanent Resident Travel Document Fees
In a recent policy shift, Canada has introduced a consistent application fee for Permanent Resident Travel Document (PRTD) requests submitted outside the country, effective October 9, 2025. This change mandates a $50 fee for every PRTD application, eliminating previous ambiguities about potential fee waivers or exemptions.
Understanding the PRTD
The Permanent Resident Travel Document is crucial for Canadian permanent residents abroad who lack a valid PR card due to expiration or loss. This document allows them to re-enter Canada and affirm their residency status, provided they meet the residency obligations.
Key Details of the Update
The $50 fee is non-negotiable and must accompany the application to avoid delays or rejections. This decision is rooted in subsection 31(3) of the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act, aiming for uniformity across all international processing centers.
Rationale Behind the Change
The update addresses previous inconsistencies in fee interpretations across visa offices, ensuring all applicants are treated equally. By standardizing the fee, Canada seeks to enhance clarity and compliance, supporting a transparent and streamlined immigration process.
Who Needs a PRTD?
Permanent residents outside Canada without a valid PR card and intending to return by commercial means must apply for a PRTD. Eligibility hinges on meeting the residency requirement: a minimum of 730 days in Canada within the last five years.
Application Process
Applicants should download the PRTD application package from the official website, complete it with accurate personal and residency information, attach necessary documents, and pay the fee online. Submission is via the nearest Canadian visa office in the applicant’s residing country.
Residency Obligation
Approval of the PRTD depends on meeting the stipulated residency criteria. Failure to comply may lead to application denial or loss of permanent residency status after review.
Implications of the Policy
For Canadians abroad, particularly those on extended foreign assignments, understanding these requirements is essential to avoid travel interruptions. The fee ensures that the costs of verifying residency and issuing documents are met, aligning with Canada’s broader goals of immigration modernization.
By implementing this standardized fee, Canada reinforces its commitment to a consistent and transparent immigration process, benefiting both applicants and the administrative framework.
Waiting on Your Immigration Application?
GCMS (Global Case Management System) is the system used by IRCC to track and process all immigration and visa files. GCMS notes include detailed updates, officer comments, and reasons for decisions.
If you’re unsure about your application status, apply GCMS notes to see what’s happening behind the scenes. It’s the most reliable way to understand your file.
