Find & Use Your Green Card PR Number [2025]
Top 5 Ways to Get Your Green Card Permanent Resident Number [2025-2026 Guide]
TL;DR
Your Green Card Permanent Resident Number (USCIS Number) is found on your physical green card (Form I-551) or approval notices; for Canada, the equivalent is your Permanent Resident (PR) Card number, issued after IRCC approves your application. Check your card’s front side or use IRCC’s online portal to track your status.
How Do I Find My Green Card Permanent Resident Number?
Your Permanent Resident Number is printed on your physical PR card or immigration documents.
For Canadian PR holders, the 8-digit number (e.g., 0000-0000) appears on the front of your PR card under "Client ID" or in your Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR). For U.S. Green Card holders, the 13-digit "USCIS Number" is on the back of Form I-551.
Key facts:
- Canada: PR number starts with "T," "F," or "W" (e.g., T12345678).
- U.S.: USCIS Number is also called the "A-number" (e.g., A000-000-000).
- Lost your card? Request a replacement via IRCC{target="_blank"} or USCIS{target="_blank"}.
Pro Tip: Use Evola’s Immigration Success Predictor{target="_blank"} to estimate PR approval timelines based on your profile.
Is the Permanent Resident Number the Same as a UCI?
No—Canada’s Unique Client Identifier (UCI) is different from your PR number.
Your UCI (8 digits) is assigned at your first visa application, while your PR number (also 8 digits) is issued upon approval. Both appear on your PR card, but the PR number replaces your UCI for post-landing processes.
Key differences:
- UCI: Used for all IRCC applications (e.g., work permits, visas).
- PR Number: Exclusive to permanent residents for accessing benefits.
- U.S. equivalent: The "A-number" serves both purposes.
According to IRCC’s glossary{target="_blank"}, UCIs help track immigration history across applications.
How Long Does It Take to Get a PR Number After Approval?
Canadian PR numbers are issued immediately upon approval but take 2–6 weeks to receive your physical card.
After submitting your PR application:
- Approval: IRCC sends a COPR with your PR number.
- Card Production: Mailed to your Canadian address (track via IRCC’s portal{target="_blank"}).
- Delays: Up to 6 months if photos/addresses are rejected.
Example: Express Entry applicants typically get COPR within 6 months, but cards arrive later. Use Evola’s CRS Calculator{target="_blank"} to estimate processing times based on your CRS score.
Can I Travel Without My Physical PR Card?
Yes, but re-entering Canada requires a valid PR card or Permanent Resident Travel Document (PRTD).
Alternatives if your card is lost/expired:
- Apply for a PRTD{target="_blank"} at a visa office abroad.
- Use a private vehicle with COPR and passport (U.S. border only).
Warning: Airlines may deny boarding without a PR card. Renewals take ~60 days—plan ahead!
How Do I Replace a Lost PR Card or Green Card?
File a replacement application with IRCC or USCIS and pay a fee.
Steps for Canada:
- Report loss/theft to police (optional but recommended).
- Submit Form IMM 5444{target="_blank"} with supporting documents.
- Wait ~104 days (current processing time).
For the U.S., file Form I-90{target="_blank"} online ($540 fee).
Evola Advantage: Our AI mentor alerts you to document errors before submission, reducing rejection risks.
Conclusion
Your Permanent Resident Number unlocks critical services—from healthcare to travel. Keep your card secure, renew it 6 months before expiry, and use Evola’s tools to stay compliant.
Ready to simplify your immigration journey? Explore Evola’s free resources today{target="_blank"}.
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