Overview PR Card/Prtd Renewal on Humanitarian and Compassionate (H&C) Grounds

Renewing your Permanent Resident (PR) card or Permanent Resident Travel Document (PRTD) on Humanitarian and Compassionate (H&C) grounds can be a complex process. This option is available for those who cannot meet the standard residency requirements due to exceptional circumstances. If you are facing difficulties and need to stay in Canada, understanding how to renew your PR card on H&C grounds can provide a pathway to secure your status.

Understanding the costs, processing time, and outcomes of PR card renewal on H&C grounds can help you navigate this process with clarity. Knowing what to expect at each step can reduce stress and help you prepare a strong application. Let’s dive into the specifics to help you get started on the right foot.

Eligibility Requirements for PR Card/PRTD Renewal on H&C Grounds

Renewing your PR card or PRTD on Humanitarian and Compassionate (H&C) grounds requires meeting specific eligibility criteria. These criteria are designed to ensure that those who face exceptional circumstances are given a chance. Understanding these requirements is crucial for preparing a successful application.

1. Proof of Hardship: You must provide evidence of the hardship you will face if your PR card is not renewed. This can include letters from doctors, testimonies from family members, or other relevant documents. The goal is to show that your situation is dire and that leaving Canada would cause significant suffering.

2. Family Ties in Canada: Showing strong family connections in Canada can strengthen your application. This could mean proving that you have immediate family members who rely on you, such as children or elderly parents. Documentation like birth certificates, marriage certificates, and affidavits can help.

3. Best Interests of the Child: If your application involves children, it is essential to show that their well-being will be affected if you have to leave Canada. Provide school records, letters from teachers, and any medical or psychological evaluations that demonstrate the potential negative impact on the child.

4. Contributions to Canadian Society: Highlight your involvement and contributions to your community. This can include volunteer work, employment, and other activities that show you are an active member of Canadian society. Support letters from employers or community leaders can be beneficial.

Costs and Fees for PR Card/PRTD Renewal

Renewing your PR card or PRTD on Humanitarian and Compassionate grounds involves certain costs and fees. Being aware of these helps you plan and budget accordingly.

1. Application Fee: The primary cost associated with renewing your PR card or PRTD is the application fee. As of 2024, the fee is $50 CAD for PR card renewal and can vary for PRTD based on your specific situation. Always check the latest fee structure on the official website before submitting your application.

2. Supporting Documents: Obtaining required supporting documents might also incur costs. This can include fees for medical records, legal affidavits, or translation services if your documents are not in English or French. Remember to factor in these expenses when preparing your application.

3. Professional Help: If you choose to seek help from an immigration consultant or lawyer, there will be additional costs. While this is optional, professional guidance can make a significant difference, especially in complex cases where presenting your best case is crucial.

Processing Time: How Long Renewal Takes

The processing time for renewing your PR card or PRTD on Humanitarian and Compassionate (H&C) grounds can vary. Knowing how long it might take helps you plan accordingly and understand what to expect.

1. Application Processing: On average, renewing a PR card can take several months. The processing time for PR cards typically ranges from three to four months. For PRTDs, it can vary more significantly depending on your location and specific case details.

2. H&C Review Duration: Since your application is based on H&C grounds, additional reviewing time is needed. This review can add extra months to the overall processing time. Factors such as the complexity of your case and the volume of applications being processed by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) will affect this duration.

3. Follow-Up Requests: IRCC may request additional documents or information during the review process. Responding promptly to these requests can help avoid further delays. It’s crucial to keep all supporting documents ready to ensure a smoother process.

Outcome and Next Steps: What You End Up With and Getting a Passport

After going through the renewal process for your PR card or PRTD on Humanitarian and Compassionate grounds, knowing what comes next is crucial. This helps in planning your next steps effectively.

1. Renewed PR Card/PRTD: Once your renewal is approved, you receive a new PR card or PRTD. This document confirms your status as a permanent resident and allows you to travel to and from Canada without issues. Ensure you keep this card safe and make a note of its expiration date to avoid future complications.

2. Maintaining Residency: After getting your renewed PR card, it’s important to maintain your residency status by meeting the residency obligations. This usually means spending at least 730 days in Canada within a five-year period. Keeping track of your days in Canada helps avoid problems with future renewals.

3. Applying for Canadian Citizenship: With your renewed PR card, you may consider applying for Canadian citizenship if you meet the eligibility criteria. Canadian citizenship provides numerous benefits, including the right to vote and obtaining a Canadian passport. The process of becoming a citizen involves meeting residency requirements, passing a citizenship test, and attending a citizenship ceremony.

4. Getting a Canadian Passport: After becoming a Canadian citizen, you can apply for a Canadian passport. This passport allows you to travel more freely and serves as proof of your Canadian citizenship. To apply, you will need documents like your citizenship certificate and passport photos, and you will need to fill out the application form and pay the required fee.

Conclusion

Renewing your PR card or PRTD on Humanitarian and Compassionate grounds involves several important steps. Understanding the eligibility requirements, costs, processing times, and outcomes helps you navigate the process more effectively. Meeting the criteria and being prepared with all necessary documentation is key to presenting a strong case.

Contact Doherty Fultz Immigration today to get expert guidance on renewing your PR card or PR travel document on humanitarian and compassionate grounds. Your future in Canada is important to us, and we are here to help you every step of the way. Let us assist you in making the process smoother and more manageable.