Thanks PMM for the info.
Along with the link you provided for the Permanent Resident Abroad document
(
http://www.cic.gc.ca/english/pdf/kits/guides/5529E.PDF), I have managed to
find the actual form itself
(
http://www.cic.gc.ca/english/pdf/kit...s/IMM5524B.PDF) and a good
overview of the requirements for the application while in the US
(
http://www.dfait-maeci.gc.ca/can-am/...mid=11&cat=633). It states
that you will need the following to process the IMM 5524 application:
-Completed IMM 5524 application (Permanent Resident Abroad)
-Evidence of Permanent Resident Status (copy of PR Card or Record of
Landing)
-Evidence of physical presence in Canada for the past 5 years (I would
assume paystubs, tax assesments, copy of drivers licence would probably
suffice).
-Two recent passport-sized photos with birthdate and signature on the back.
-Valid Passport
-US Visa or I-94 card
-Cheque CAD$ 50 or US$ 37 payable to the Receiver General of Canada or
Canadian Consulate-General (respectively).
-Self-addressed, stamped return Express Mail envelope.
The fact you need the I-94 card/US Visa indicates that you need to be out
of the country to apply (no pre-application). I will be in the States for 3
weeks so if I get on this once I arrive I don't anticipate a problem.
I have also spoken with my travel agent regarding this. They will place a
note with airline indicating my residence status in the Canada and my
pending PR Card application. It may not do much but it's best to cover all
bases.
Thanks,
Stu
"PMM" <pmurray-no spam-@telus.net> wrote in message
news:G3Qub.59412$1K.29021@edtnps84...
> Hi Stu
> "Stu Barton" <> wrote in message
> news:iPOub.434753$6C4.103386@pd7tw1no...
> > I see that there has been a fair amount of discussion on this but I'm
> still
> > a little concerned/confused so bear with me.
> >
> > I am a Permanent Resident who is planning to travel to the United States
> in
> > January (and return to Canada that same month). I have applied for the
> > (inane) Permanent Resident card but do not expect it to be available
> before
> > I leave the country.
> >
> > Anyone who could provide clarification/guidance on the following would
be
> > greatly appreciated.
> >
> > 1. I understand that the carrier (Air Canada in my case) will not
prevent
> > me from LEAVING Canada without a PR Card after Dec 31st, 2003. They
will
> > prevent me from boarding on my RETURN TRIP if I do not possess this
card.
> > a. Has anyone heard any different?
> No, if they follow the rules, they will not board you.
> > b. How strict/lenient should we anticipate this requirement
to
> be
> > adhered to? (assuming that I am not the only person in this position and
> > that there may be a fair number of people faced with this scenario,
> > especially early in the new year)
> Probably fairly strict, since the would subject to a fine and the expense
of
> returning the person if that person was not admitted to Canada.
> > c. Potentially, could the carrier allow me to board and then
> have
> > Immigration "process" me once I return?
> Very unlikely.
> >
> > 2. For those residents who do not possess a PR Card they apply to the
> > nearest Canadian Consulate whilst abroad to obtain a "Limited Use Travel
> > Document" (for a $50 fee).
> > a. Can you obtain this document before you travel (leave
> Canada)?
> No.
> > b. Do you need to present yourself in person to a Canadian
> > Consulate or can this be done by fax/mail/phone?
> See: http://www.cic.gc.ca/english/pdf/kits/guides/5529E.PDF it appears
that
> it can be done by mail, but you would have include your passport.
> > c. What is the potential processing time for this document?
> >
> > Essentially I don't want to end up in the situation of arriving at the
> > airport to return to Canada and having to miss my flight because I do
not
> > have the correct documentation. I would like to pre-arrange as much in
> > advance as possible (conceding of course that I should have applied for
> the
> > PR Card earlier).
> >
> > What is the worse case scenario if I do not have a PR Card?
> Fly to a US airport closest to your Canadian destination, rent a car, with
> Canada drop off.
> >
> > Thoughts/comments/suggestions/advice/etc are appreciated.
> >
> > Thanks,
> >
> > Stu Barton
> PMM