I came to Canada from the United States in 1991. I became a permanent Canadian resident through marriage. I have been living and working in Canada since 1991. I am divorced from my first husband and got re-married; I am currently separated from my second Canadian husband but not divorced.
When I came to Canada in 1991 PR cards did not exist. I have never received a PR card. Do I need one?
Is the PR paperwork I was given in 1991 good enough? Can I travel and return to Canada using my 1991 PR documentation?
Thank you.
Hello,
Thank you for sharing your situation and questions with us.
You require a PR card in order to re-enter Canada when travelling by a commercial carrier.
In terms of re-entering Canada, you can find some information on the IRCC website in the I am outside of Canada and do not have a PR card. How can I return to Canada? section.
Here is an excerpt,
I am outside of Canada and do not have a PR card. How can I return to Canada?
Canada’s entry requirements are changing
Permanent residents (PR) of Canada must carry and present their valid PR card or permanent resident travel document (PRTD) when boarding a flight to Canada, or travelling to Canada on any other commercial carrier. If you do not carry your PR card or PRTD, you may not be able to board your flight, train, bus or boat to Canada.
It is your responsibility to ensure that your PR card is still valid when you return from travel outside Canada, and to apply for a new PR card when your current card expires.
Returning by private vehicle
There are other documents you can use to enter the country.
When you return to Canada, apply for a PR card if you plan to travel outside Canada again.
Some examples of private vehicles include, but are not limited to: a car, truck, motorcycle, or recreational vehicle that you own, borrow, or rent, and that is not available for public use.
Returning by commercial vehicle: airplane, bus, train, or boat
You must apply for a permanent resident travel document (PRTD) , valid for one entry. Otherwise you may not be able to travel to Canada.
You can apply to replace your PR card when you return to Canada.
I hope this information is helpful. Please let us know if you have further questions and if there is any follow up to your question/situation.
=====Settlement.Org Content and Information/Referral Specialist, CRS, CRS-DCSettlement.Org