Any permanent resident who plans to travel outside of Canada must carry a Permanent Resident (PR) Card to return to Canada. You must present your PR card at the border if you arrive by plane, train, bus, or boat.
You are still a permanent resident if you do not have a PR Card. Your PR Card is only used to travel in and out of Canada.
If you are a permanent resident, the government will automatically send you your PR Card in the mail. If you need to renew your card, replace your card, or get a new card, you must complete an application form and submit it by mail.
What to do if you do not have a Permanent Resident Card
If you are a permanent resident and travelled outside of Canada without a PR Card, you must apply for a permanent resident travel document (PRTD) before coming back to Canada. You can only apply for PRTD if you are outside of Canada.