Skip to main content
Form Guide

IMM 5444 - Application for a Permanent Resident Card or PR Travel Document

Reviewed by Eric Provencio, Founder of VisaMind·Last updated Mar 2, 2026

Guide generated from official sources when available. Always confirm requirements on the authority’s official site.

It is essential for permanent residents to maintain their status and travel in and out of Canada. For related guidance, see the [International Experience Canada (IEC)](/en/canada/visas/types/iec) page. For related guidance, see the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) page.

Get guided helpBrowse forms

Quick answers

What forms are filed with IMM 5444?
Often filed together: IMM-5476.
What mistakes cause IMM 5444 rejection?
Common issues: wrong application type, photos not meeting specs, or missing residency evidence.
What documents do I need for IMM 5444?
You'll need: the current edition of IMM 5444, permanent resident status, identity. Review the instructions for complete requirements.
Do I need to file IMM 5444?
You need IMM 5444 if you are a permanent resident and need a new or replacement PR card.
How long does IMM 5444 take to process?
Processing times vary by case type and current workload. Check the official processing times tool for your specific situation.
Does filing IMM 5444 grant work authorization or lawful status?
No. Filing IMM 5444 does not by itself grant work authorization or lawful status. If approved, IRCC may update your status conditions and issue updated evidence of your status, depending on what you requested.

Quick summary

#
Who fills it

You must have valid PR status and meet residency obligations.

When used

When the official instructions indicate this form is required

Where it goes next

Include it with your application package and follow official instructions for submission.

What it must match

Names, dates of birth, and passport details on other forms Program checklist requirements Supporting documents and translations

Overview (What is Form IMM 5444?)

#

Following these guidelines and providing complete and accurate information enables permanent residents to apply for or renew their PR Card or obtain a PRTD. This helps maintain their status and facilitates travel in and out of Canada. When completing the application, ensure to include the Additional Family information and Schedule A forms, if applicable. It is crucial to provide family information, address history, and any supporting documents for name changes as part of your submission.

First page of IMM 5444 form

First page of IMM 5444 form

Source: IMM 5444 PDF

Context and workflow

#

Processing time for IMM 5444 varies by case type and current workload — always check the official IRCC processing time tool.

Why this matters

  • This form helps confirm that the application matches the program’s requirements and checklist.
  • Small mismatches inside IMM 5444 (or between IMM 5444 and supporting evidence) can force rework later in processing.

Where it fits in the workflow

  • PR Card issuance and delivery
  • Acknowledgement of Receipt (AOR)
  • Residency obligation verification
  • IMM 5444 is commonly filed alongside Form IMM-5476.

Who uses it

The IMM 5444 form is used by applicants to apply for a Permanent Resident Card (PR card) or a Permanent Resident Travel Document (PRTD) in Canada. This form is essential for maintaining valid PR status and meeting residency obligations. Applicants, including their family and dependants, must ensure they provide all necessary supporting documents, such as proof of identity and status, and any changes in name. If you are in Canada, apply for a PR card to renew, replace, or obtain your first card. If you are outside Canada without a valid PR card, apply for a PRTD.

When it is used

  • When the official instructions indicate this form is required
  • As part of a complete application package with supporting documents

Requirements snapshot

#
  • Important: You must provide supporting documents for any change in your name

Failure prevention (What causes Form IMM 5444 rejections?)

#

Technical rejections

  • Submitting an unsigned or undated application form
  • Not validating the form before printing
  • Ensure form edition is current

Substantive weaknesses

  • Applying for a PR card renewal when the current card is valid for more than nine months
  • To avoid incomplete or incorrect information: Double-check all fields and include every required document per instructions.
  • To avoid applying for a pr card renewal when the current card is valid for more than nine months: Verify: applying for a pr card renewal when the current card is valid for more than nine months.
  • To avoid to avoid incomplete or incorrect information: double-check all fields and include every required document per instructions.: Verify: to avoid incomplete or incorrect information: double-check all fields and include every required document per instructions..
  • To avoid submitting an unsigned or undated application form: Verify: submitting an unsigned or undated application form.

What it asks for (What does Form IMM 5444 ask for?)

#
  • Your current situation and whether you are applying for a PR card or PRTD.
  • Personal details including full name, current name, and physical characteristics.
  • Immigration history including any removal orders or inadmissibility reports.
  • Applicant identification information
  • Supporting documentation inventory
  • Eligibility or purpose details
  • Declarations and signatures
  • Your full legal name as it appears on official documents
  • Your date and place of birth
  • Your current passport number and issuance details

Sources for this section

IMM 5444 form page

What you need (What do you need for Form IMM 5444?)

#
  • The current edition of IMM 5444
  • Proof of permanent resident status
  • Proof of identity
  • Photos meeting specifications
  • Important: You may need to provide supporting documents for any change in your name
  • Proof of this persons Canadian citizenship and relationship to you as supporting documents
  • Complete all required sections, sign, and submit with required evidence.
  • [object Object]
  • [object Object]

Sources for this section

IMM 5444 form page

Checklist (What is the Form IMM 5444 checklist?)

#
  • To begin, obtain the latest version of the IMM 5444 form and its accompanying instructions from the official IRCC website.
  • Review the official IMM 5444 instructions before filing
  • Collect the necessary supporting documents as outlined in the instructions.
  • Complete all required sections of IMM 5444
  • Ensure that the application form is signed and dated in all the necessary sections.
  • Sign, date, and submit IMM 5444 with all required supporting evidence

Sources for this section

IMM 5444 form page

Where to file

#

Submit your application at the designated IRCC office, embassy, or consulate. Check the official website for the location with jurisdiction over your place of residence.

File online

a paper application We recommend that you download the form and fill it out electronically, to avoid errors

Submit application

a paper application We recommend that you download the form and fill it out electronically, to avoid errors

Filing locations and procedures may change. Always verify on the official IRCC website before submitting. For related guidance, see Generic Application Form for Canada.

Official IMM 5444 page

Fees

#
ComponentAmount
Filing FeeThe standard filing fee for form imm 5444. Check the current fee on the official IRCC fee schedule.See official schedule
Biometrics Services FeeA biometrics fee may be required depending on your category. Check the official fee schedule.See official schedule

Can the Form IMM 5444 fee be waived?

Fee waivers may be available for qualifying applicants. See official instructions for eligibility.

What happens if I submit the wrong fee?

IRCC will reject your application if the incorrect fee is submitted. Verify the current fee on the official schedule before filing.

Fee waiver: Fee waivers may be available for qualifying applicants. See official instructions for eligibility. For related guidance, see Use of a Representative.

IRCC fee schedule

Fees change; always verify on IRCC.

Form sections (What sections does Form IMM 5444 have?)

#

Personal Details

Applicant identification.

  • Full name and date of birth
  • Citizenship and passport information
  • Contact information and address

Application Details

Program-specific information.

  • Category or stream
  • Supporting evidence checklist
  • Required declarations

Supporting Documents

Required attachments.

  • Identity documents
  • Program-specific evidence
  • Translation and certification if required

Key terms

#
PR card
A card that serves as proof of permanent resident status in Canada.In this form: Used to re-enter Canada and prove status within the country.
PRTD
A document that allows permanent residents outside Canada to return without a PR card.In this form: Necessary for re-entry if the PR card is not available.

Strategy tips

#
Strategy: Use the document checklist for your program. Missing documents delay processing or result in refusal.
Strategy: Ensure consistency across all forms and documents. Dates and names must match exactly.
Strategy: Download forms from the IRCC website. Check the form date before completing.

Mistake severity

#
Mistake typeSeverityHow to avoid
Applying for a PR card renewal when the current card is valid for more than nine monthsDelayVerify: applying for a pr card renewal when the current card is valid for more than nine months.
To avoid incomplete or incorrect information: Double-check all fields and include every required document per instructions.DelayVerify: to avoid incomplete or incorrect information: double-check all fields and include every required document per instructions..
Submitting an unsigned or undated application formRejectionVerify: submitting an unsigned or undated application form.
Not validating the form before printingDelayValidating the form before printing.
Ensure form edition is currentDelayVerify: ensure form edition is current.
Not providing supporting documents for a name change.DelayProviding supporting documents for a name change..

Examples (What are examples for Form IMM 5444?)

#
  • Strong application: An applicant submits the form with all required documents and receives a timely decision.
  • Weak application: An applicant submits the form without validating it and omits their address history, resulting in delays.
  • Strong application: An applicant provides a complete address history and all required documents, including a photocopy of their current PR card, leading to a smooth processing.
  • [object Object]
  • [object Object]
  • [object Object]

Common misconceptions (What misconceptions surround Form IMM 5444?)

#
  • Filing this form does not guarantee approval of the underlying case
  • A PR card is proof of status, not the status itself—you remain a PR even without the card
  • Replacement does not extend or change your PR status
  • [object Object]

Edge cases and variations

#
  • Travel document applications may be needed if you are outside the country.
  • If you are asked to submit or update IMM 5444, treat it as a package update: check every place the same details appear and keep them consistent.

In-depth guidance

#

How to complete this form reliably

Treat IMM 5444 as part of a system, not a standalone document. Most delays happen when details conflict across the form, supporting documents, and other parts of the application package. Before you start, gather the documents you will reference and decide which one is the source of truth for each field.

Fill the form in one sitting if possible. Partially-completed forms are where inconsistent edits creep in. When you finish, review each section and ask "what evidence in my package proves this statement?"

Background and timeline sections

Schedule/background forms are used to capture histories that must be gap-free. Build a master timeline first, then copy it into the form. If you had periods of unemployment, travel, or caregiving, include them as explicit entries rather than leaving blanks.

Scenarios

#

An applicant completes the form with accurate information and submits all required supporting documents through the IRCC portal or by mail.

Application accepted. Processing begins. Biometrics or medical may be requested.

Use the document checklist for your program. Missing documents delay processing or result in refusal.

An applicant provides inconsistent information between the form and supporting documents.

Application flagged. May receive procedural fairness letter or refusal for misrepresentation.

Ensure consistency across all forms and documents. Dates and names must match exactly.

An applicant submits an outdated form version.

Application returned or rejected. IRCC only accepts current versions. Form dates are on the bottom of each page.

Download forms from the IRCC website. Check the form date before completing.

Key differentiators

#
  • Unlike IMM 5292: IMM 5444 is specifically for applying for a PR card or PRTD, while IMM 5292 is a confirmation of permanent residence.
  • Unlike Form IMM 5476: Use of a Representative: Filed together: If using a representative (Pr Card pathway)
  • Unlike Form IMM 5644: Document Checklist: PR Card or PR Travel Document: Supporting form: Document checklist for PR card (Pr Card pathway)
  • Unlike Form IMM 0008: Generic Application Form for Canada: Required for: Must have permanent residence status (Pr Card pathway)

Why it matters

#
  • Do not apply for a PR card renewal if your current card is valid for more than nine months.

    Why it matters: Applying too early can result in your application being returned.

  • PR cards will not be mailed to third party addresses.

    Why it matters: Ensures the card is sent directly to the applicant, preventing loss or unauthorized access.

  • If you change your gender to 'X - Another gender,' you need to complete an additional form.

    Why it matters: Ensures that gender identity is accurately reflected in official documents.

Next steps

#
  • Acknowledgement of Receipt (AOR)
  • Attend biometrics collection appointment if required
  • PR Card issuance and delivery
  • Receive decision on PR Travel Document application if applicable
  • Update any changes in personal information with IRCC

Verification

#

This guide is based on official IRCC instructions for IMM 5444 and is updated with changes in form editions or filing rules. Always confirm current requirements on the official IRCC website.

FAQs

What other forms are typically filed together with IMM 5444?

Review the official IMM 5444 instructions for guidance specific to your immigration category and circumstances. The specific forms required vary by case type. Review the instructions for your particular immigration category to determine which forms must be submitted together.

Which visa categories commonly require IMM 5444?

Review the official instructions for eligibility details. Review the official IMM 5444 instructions for complete guidance specific to your immigration case and circumstances.

Do I need to file IMM 5444 if I'm only updating my address or contact information?

Check the official instructions to see which form or process applies to your type of update. Review the official IMM 5444 instructions for complete guidance specific to your immigration case and circumstances.

Do I need to provide a photocopy of my current PR card?

If you possess a current PR card, ensure that a photocopy is included with your application.

What should I do if I have a removal order against me?

In your application, it is important to disclose any removal orders you have received, as these may impact your eligibility for a Permanent Resident Card (PR card) or a Permanent Resident Travel Document (PRTD).

Can I apply for a PR card if I am outside Canada?

If you are currently outside Canada, you should apply for a Permanent Resident Travel Document (PRTD) instead.

What happens after I submit IMM 5444?

After submitting IMM 5444, IRCC will issue a Confirmation of receipt confirming acceptance. You may then be scheduled for biometrics, an interview, or additional evidence requests depending on your case. You can monitor your case status online using the receipt number from your notice.

What are common reasons IMM 5444 gets rejected?

Common reasons IMM 5444 is rejected include missing or incorrect signatures, using an outdated form edition, incomplete required fields, incorrect fee payment, missing required supporting documents, and photographs that do not meet official specifications. Carefully review the instructions and checklist before submitting.

Important

VisaMind provides informational guidance only and is not a government agency. This is not legal advice. Requirements can change and eligibility depends on your specific facts. If your case is complex or high-stakes, consult a licensed immigration attorney.

Next steps

Requirements vary by nationality, purpose, timeline, and case details. Use Find My Visa to get a personalized checklist with official sources and deadlines.

Find my visa