PR Card Renewal through H&C

PR Card Renewal for Humanitarian and Compassionate Grounds: A Complete Guide

Renewing your Permanent Resident (PR) Card in Canada is essential for maintaining your legal status and proving your residency in the country. However, what happens if you don’t meet the residency obligation? This is where the Humanitarian and Compassionate (H&C) grounds come into play.

In this article, we will explore what PR Card renewal under H&C grounds is, who qualifies for it, and how you can apply successfully.

What is PR Card Renewal Under Humanitarian and Compassionate Grounds?

Permanent residents of Canada are required to meet a **residency obligation of 730 days (2 years) within the last five years** to renew their PR card. However, life circumstances can sometimes prevent individuals from meeting this requirement. 

Humanitarian and Compassionate (H&C) grounds provide a mechanism for individuals who do not meet the residency requirement to apply for PR card renewal if they can demonstrate compelling reasons for their absence from Canada.

This compassionate provision allows Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) to consider unique situations where strict adherence to the residency requirement would cause undue hardship or result in unjust outcomes.

Who Qualifies for PR Card Renewal on Humanitarian and Compassionate Grounds?

Applicants who do not meet the residency obligation but have **compelling and exceptional reasons** for their absence from Canada may qualify under H&C grounds. Some common reasons include:

1. Medical Emergencies: If you had to care for a sick or dying family member outside Canada. 

2. Family Responsibilities: Taking care of young children, elderly parents, or other dependents abroad.  

3. Travel Restrictions: Inability to return to Canada due to natural disasters, political instability, or travel restrictions (such as during the COVID-19 pandemic).  

4. Unavoidable Work Commitments: Working abroad due to employment obligations beyond your control.  

5. Other Compassionate Factors: Unique personal circumstances that merit consideration.  

How to Apply for PR Card Renewal on Humanitarian and Compassionate Grounds

Applying for PR card renewal under H&C grounds requires a comprehensive approach. Here are the steps:

1. Complete the Application Form (IMM 5444): Provide all personal information, residency history, and current status.  

2. Prepare Supporting Documents:Collect evidence that supports your claim of H&C grounds, such as:  

   – Medical reports, hospital records, or death certificates.  

   – Proof of caregiving responsibilities (e.g., letters from doctors or family members).  

   – Travel restriction notices or government advisories.  

   – Employment contracts or documents showing essential work obligations.  

3. Write a Detailed Cover Letter: Clearly explain your circumstances, reasons for not meeting the residency requirement, and why you deserve consideration under H&C grounds.  

4. Pay the Required Fees: Submit the payment receipt along with your application.  

5. Submit Your Application: Ensure all documents are well-organized and properly 

Our clients have achieved successful outcomes even in complex situations. Ready to renew your PR card? Contact us today for a consultation and ensure your future in Canada.