The 730-day rule
To keep permanent resident status, you must be physically present in Canada for at least 730 days (2 years) in every 5-year period. The days don't need to be continuous.
- If you've been a PR for less than 5 years: you must be able to reach 730 days by your 5th anniversary. The calculator shows your total absence allowance for the first 5 years and how much of it remains, including planned trips.
- If you've been a PR for 5 years or more: the 5 years immediately before the date you're assessed are checked. Assessment happens when you apply for a PR card or travel document, or when you arrive at the border.
Time abroad that can still count
Some days outside Canada count toward the 730 days. For example:
- Days spent accompanying a spouse, common-law partner or parent who is a Canadian citizen.
- Days employed full-time outside Canada by a Canadian business or the public service of Canada, or accompanying a PR spouse or parent in that situation.
If any of these apply to you, leave those trips out of the list, since the calculator treats every day abroad as an absence.
What if you're under 730 days?
You do not lose PR status automatically. It ends only after an official determination. You may be able to argue humanitarian and compassionate grounds. If you are outside Canada without a valid PR card, you'll need a PR Travel Document (PRTD), and the residency obligation will be assessed then.