Once you have obtained permanent resident status in Canada, it is important to understand the requirements to maintain the status you and your family have achieved. We have many clients who are dealing with this issue, particularly investor or business immigrants who must keep a foot in two countries because of continuing active business operations or family obligations overseas.

New immigrants to Canada are issued a "Permanent Resident Card" (PR Card) that is valid for 5 years. In order to renew that PR Card it is necessary to demonstrate physical residence in Canada for at least 730 days (2 years) within the previous 5 years.

Failure to accumulate 730 days of residence in Canada within each 5 year period may result in loss of permanent resident status.

There are limited exemptions for this 730 day residence requirement, and if extended absences from Canada are anticipated it is important to discuss your circumstances with one of our lawyers to ensure you have a viable strategic plan to properly deal with your situation.

In limited circumstances, we have successfully assisted individuals retain permanent resident status who for example have been outside of Canada for 10 or more years.

For more information about the available solutions that might best fit your circumstances, please visit our Getting Started page and complete our free on-line questionnaire.