The final stage of a permanent residence application depends on whether you are inside or outside Canada and the instructions IRCC sends. In-Canada confirmation may use the PR Portal to record your presence, mailing address and photograph before an electronic confirmation is issued. Review every detail and report travel or family changes when required. After becoming a permanent resident, keep the confirmation safely and plan travel around your first card’s arrival.
What to plan
- Read the actual approval and confirmation instructions.
- Check personal details and report relevant changes before confirmation.
- Prepare the Canadian mailing address and compliant photograph.
- Plan status-document updates and travel while the first card is pending.
The process, step by step.
This is the typical sequence to discuss when agreeing your service. The exact requirements depend on your circumstances and current instructions.
Read the actual confirmation instructions
Identify whether IRCC directs you to an in-Canada portal process or an arrival procedure, and check the information supplied.
Confirm location and report changes
Provide truthful current location and family information, and tell IRCC about relevant travel before permanent resident status is granted.
Complete the required address and photo steps
Follow the issued portal or arrival instructions, supply a suitable Canadian mailing address and photograph, and retain the confirmation document.
Plan the first-card waiting period
Update eligible services using appropriate status evidence and check commercial return-travel requirements before leaving Canada without a valid PR card.
What to prepare
These are starting points for a discussion. The official checklist and your circumstances determine the documents required for an application.
- IRCC confirmation correspondence and application details
- Passport and current location information
- Canadian mailing address and required photograph
- Confirmation of permanent residence once issued
Your questions, answered.
Most people do not if they provide the required Canadian address and photo within the prescribed period. Follow the confirmation instructions for your case.
For in-Canada confirmation, follow IRCC’s email instructions. Creating an account independently can delay the confirmation process.
Check the official guidance
Research checked 13 October 2026. Program rules, intake, fees, and processing times can change. Use the current official instructions before making a decision.