Residency obligation
Permanent residents must be physically present in Canada for at least two years in every five-year period to keep their status, with some exceptions for time abroad with a Canadian citizen spouse or employer.
Who this pathway suits
Permanent residents who spend long periods outside Canada.
Eligibility at a glance
- Two years of physical presence in a rolling five-year period
- Days outside Canada accompanying a Canadian citizen spouse or parent can count
- Days working full time abroad for a Canadian business can count in some cases
How the process works
- Count your days in Canada for the relevant five years
- Check whether any exception applies
- Plan travel and renewals around the obligation
Documents you will typically need
- Travel history and passport stamps
- Employment evidence for any exception claimed
What to keep in mind
Falling short does not end status automatically, but an officer can find you in breach when you apply for a travel document or at the border.
Official source: Official source. Government authorities make all final decisions; no outcome is guaranteed.
Parallel Options & Supporting Tools for Residency obligation
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Supporting Tools & Verification Checklists
Supporting Briefings & Advisory Articles
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