A permanent resident of any country is someone who has been given the status by the country they choose to stay in. They are usually born citizens of another country but seek resident status in other countries for job opportunities, education, or other reasons.
In Canada, a permanent resident is a born citizen of another country who has been naturalized according to the procedures. By immigrating to Canada, these citizens from other countries have been given permanent resident status by the Canadian authorities.
If you are planning on immigrating to Canada, and seeking a permanent resident card in Toronto, ON, then you will need to know what the permanent resident card is, and how to apply for it.
What is a permanent resident card?
A permanent resident card is a wallet-sized plastic card that all permanent residents who have been given permanent status by the government. All Canadian permanent residents are required to show this card when they re-enter Canada through any commercial transportation by boat, airplane, car, or train.
How can you apply for one?
Permanent residents who have already been granted this status can apply for their card if they fall under the following categories:
- You have received a permanent resident status before June 28, 2002
- If you have become a permanent resident of Canada on or after June 28, 2002, but for some reason have not received a Permanent Resident card
- If your Permanent Resident card gets stolen, misplaced, or expired
For new applicants, or those who need to get theirs replaced, fall under these categories:
- A new applicant for their first permanent resident card
- Require replacement of their card due to theft, misplacement, or expiry
- If they have an emergency situation requiring urgent processing of their permanent resident card
Perks of being a permanent resident in Canada
As a permanent resident cardholder, you have the following benefits that can be availed:
- Live, work, and study anywhere in Canada
- Get most social benefits that the government gives to its citizens, including mandatory health coverage
- Apply further for Canadian citizenship
- Protection under Canadian law
Becoming a permanent resident of Canada requires some documentation and paperwork to be completed, but you can become a permanent resident easily enough. Canada is certainly a country worth living in, so if you are planning on moving there, make sure you have all your documents and affairs in order before applying for citizenship.
