I will be sending out my citizenship application this week (by Sept 14, 2015).
MY QUESTION:
1] How long before my PR card expiration date can I apply for its renewal?
2] Will applying for PR card renewal process in any way affect my sending out my CITIZENSHIP application processing?
Here’s what I found which caused confusion:
Instruction guidelines page on CIC website states that -"Do not apply for renewal of your current PR card if it is still valid for 9 months(270 days), otherwise your application will be returned.
While the HELP CENTRE/ FAQ on the same website states that" You should renew your card 6 months before it expires"
Hi,
My PR card expiring on 14th Sept,2015.But my stay outside of Canada in last 5 yrs is 1294 days.Please advice me that should i apply for renewal now or wait until I am eligible (730 days in Canada in last 5 yrs).I am currently in Canada now
Thank you for sharing your situation and question with us.
It sounds like you may have exhausted all of the time that you can spend outside Canada. Now it will be important to meet the 730 day requirement in Canada.
Most people feel better having a valid PR card on hand in case of an emergency where they must travel outside Canada.
You require a valid PR card or a valid Permanent Resident Travel Document (PRTD) to re-enter Canada by commercial carrier (train, plane, boat or bus). You will not be permitted to board a commercial carrier, if you cannot prove you can enter Canada.
You may want to contact the Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) Call Centre directly for to confirm this information and for some information specific to your situation.
You do not have to provide personally identifying information in order to receive a response to your general questions.
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.