The Situation
A former client from an eTA-eligible country needed to travel to Vancouver, BC, for an important family event. The client had previously held Canadian permanent resident (PR) status but no longer met the residency obligation, and his PR card had expired.
Since PRs cannot obtain an eTA, and airlines typically require either a valid PR card or a Permanent Resident Travel Document (PRTD) for boarding, we had to find a fast, compliant solution.
Two Possible Paths
We considered and discussed two options:
- Renounce PR at the port of entry (Vancouver, BC)
- Apply for an eTA, which would prompt IRCC to initiate the PR renunciation process electronically via the online portal secure account. Once renunciation is approved, the eTA can proceed as a foreign national.
Our Strategy — and Why We Chose Option 2
We recommended the eTA-triggered online renunciation. For clients who clearly fall short of the residency obligation and only need temporary entry, this route offers several advantages:
- Pre-travel resolution: Avoids uncertainty and potential delays at the airport or border.
- Streamlined digital workflow: Clear instructions and document placeholders make the process smoother.
- eTA eligibility restored: Once PR is renounced, the client is treated as a foreign national and can be considered for an eTA based on nationality.
Real Timeline for Our Client’s Matter
11 August 2025: eTA application submitted.
12 August 2025: IRCC responds, flagging possible PR status and offering two choices:
- Renounce PR within 10 days and continue with the eTA.
- Retain PR and travel with a valid PR card or PRTD (eTA would be cancelled).
13 August 2025: File linked to representative’s online portal; renunciation forms and documents uploaded. On the same day eTA approval was granted.
Key Concepts
- Residency obligation: PRs must be physically present in Canada for at least 730 days in any 5-year period.
- Status change: Once PR is renounced, the individual becomes a foreign national and may qualify for an eTA.
- Finality: Renunciation is irreversible once accepted.
- Port of entry (POE) alternative: Some clients choose to resolve PR status at the border, but pre-travel resolution is often safer and faster.
Tips for Immigration Practitioners
- Use the representative portal to link quickly after IRCC flags PR status on an eTA file.
- Calendar the 10-day deadline from the IRCC notice.
- Upload clear, legible scans of required documents to the portal. Follow photo specifications exactly.
- Keep the renunciation approval letter for future travel records.
- Screen for PRTD or H&C options if PR retention is still viable.
Outcome
The client travelled to Vancouver on time, with PR status resolved and a valid eTA up to 2028 in hand.
Kudos to the visa office for fast and efficient processing.
Who This Path Is Best For
- Former PRs who are visa-exempt and eTA-eligible by nationality.
- Individuals with clear residency shortfalls who only need temporary entry and do not intend to retain PR status or appeal.
When to Reconsider
- If the client may still meet the residency obligation.
- If there are compelling humanitarian and compassionate (H&C) factors.
- If the client’s nationality is not eTA-eligible (alternative strategies may be needed).
Disclaimer: This post is for general information only and does not constitute legal advice. IRCC policies and processing times may change. Always consult the latest official guidance before filing.
