Leaving the country for extended period on PR

[bobbypollock]

I have received my COPR. However, it took so long (almost a year) that I was forced to leave Canada and seek employment elsewhere (my temporary work permit had expired and was not eligible for renewal). So I am now in my home country and not in a position really to return to Canada just yet, even though I would like to eventually. Because the COPR will expire, my plan is to fly to Canada to activate my PR, then return to my home country and move to Canada when I'm ready. My understanding of the rules is that PR is valid as long as I am in Canada for at least 3 of every 5 years. So on that basis, am I right in saying I could activate PR, then leave Canada and return 2 years later and my PR would still be valid? I do not actually intend on waiting two years, I'm just trying to understand the rules. Also, hypothetically, if a permanent resident DOESN'T stay in Canada for 3 years out of every 5 and have their PR removed (assuming this is strictly enforced), would they then have to reapply for permanent residency as a brand new candidate or is there some process/fee for re-instating PR? I have tried contacting CIC with questions like this but they either do not reply at all, or take weeks to reply. Thank you.

 

[hc_mum]

I have received my COPR. However, it took so long (almost a year) that I was forced to leave Canada and seek employment elsewhere (my temporary work permit had expired and was not eligible for renewal). So I am now in my home country and not in a position really to return to Canada just yet, even though I would like to eventually. Because the COPR will expire, my plan is to fly to Canada to activate my PR, then return to my home country and move to Canada when I'm ready. My understanding of the rules is that PR is valid as long as I am in Canada for at least 3 of every 5 years. So on that basis, am I right in saying I could activate PR, then leave Canada and return 2 years later and my PR would still be valid? I do not actually intend on waiting two years, I'm just trying to understand the rules. Also, hypothetically, if a permanent resident DOESN'T stay in Canada for 3 years out of every 5 and have their PR removed (assuming this is strictly enforced), would they then have to reapply for permanent residency as a brand new candidate or is there some process/fee for re-instating PR? I have tried contacting CIC with questions like this but they either do not reply at all, or take weeks to reply. Thank you.

you are right in saying that you need to return to Canada once to activate your PR card. after that in next 5 years you need to stay minimum of 2 years (not 3 years) to renew your PR validity, if you stay for 3 years in next 5 years then you can apply for citizenship. So now if u fly to canada and come back and then return to canada even after 3 years, it will be active (as you ll have 2 years more to stay, but you wont be able to apply for citizenship).

More details are available in a 4 page attachment you would have received along with your COPR document. refer that.