In recent years, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) introduced a streamlined “virtual landing” process for individuals already within Canada, holding non-immigrant status, and awaiting finalization of their permanent residency applications. This process leverages an online Permanent Residence Confirmation Portal.
Upon approval of a permanent residency application, IRCC sends a confirmation email requesting information necessary to establish the PR Confirmation Portal. Once created, login credentials are provided, allowing applicants to electronically declare their presence in Canada and acceptance of permanent resident status terms.
Upon declaration acceptance, IRCC notifies the applicant about their “CoPR availability for download.” This CoPR, electronically signed by an IRCC officer on the issue date, serves as temporary proof of permanent resident status, valid for one year. The CoPR issuance date officially marks the status change to permanent resident. After this, previous work or study permits become invalid for re-entry into Canada.
Following the status change, waiting for the physical Permanent Resident (PR) Card is necessary. Leaving Canada during this period poses a significant risk, as boarding a plane, train, or bus back to Canada becomes impossible without the PR Card. The sole alternative involves applying for a Permanent Resident Travel Document (PRTD) from outside Canada, a process subject to processing times.
A limited exception exists for those attempting to re-enter Canada via a land border in a private vehicle. A Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) officer retains discretionary power to permit re-entry upon sufficient proof of permanent resident status, such as presenting the original, valid CoPR.
