The Canadian ethnic composition is complex and the attitude of accepting immigrants is relatively open, so it has become a place that many immigrants yearn for. Canada is now attracting much attention from immigrants, and a large number of people submit immigration applications every year. Similar to the issuance of green cards in the United States, Canada also has documents issued to immigrants, called Maple Leaf Card. So what are the things you need to pay attention to and avoid when applying for this card?

1. The impact of expired maple leaf card on identity

If a permanent resident fails to update the expired maple leaf card in time, his permanent resident qualification will be deemed to be voluntarily terminated. Many people mistakenly believe that the maple leaf card is a symbol of permanent resident status. Once the card expires, the identity will be invalidated. Although the Maple Leaf Card is indeed a document that proves that the holder has permanent resident status, even if the card exceeds its validity period, its identity will not be cancelled immediately. However, it must be noted that:

According to the regulations, any permanent resident who enters Canada on a civil aviation plane or cruise ship must provide a maple leaf card to indicate his or her identity.

Whether arriving by air, ground or water, Canadian Border Service staff will request sufficient identity documents, and valid lápam is one of the proofs. Not only the Border Administration, but other government departments also often verify the identity of permanent residents to determine whether the resident has the conditions to obtain specific services.

2. Maple leaf card has not been replaced before it expires

The loss of effectiveness and failure to go through the update procedures does not constitute an illegal act, and it also has the right to decide not to apply for a new card again. However, if permanent residents have plans to leave Canada and plan to come back, the immigration department still recommends applying for an update of the maple leaf card so that they can prove their permanent resident qualifications at any time.

3. The impact of expiration of maple leaf card on entry and exit

If the maple leaf card is invalid and no new card is applied for, you cannot leave or enter Canada. Although you can go abroad, you must apply for a one-time "permanent resident travel document" from visa agencies across Canada before returning to Canada. Canada has no restrictions on leaving the country, and whether or not it holds a maple leaf card, it is not subject to any restrictions.

In addition, as a permanent residence in Canada, even if the maple leaf card is invalid, it is still qualified to enter Canada, and this qualification will not be invalidated. The official website of the Ministry of Immigration pointed out that if the maple leaf card has expired but I am abroad, I must apply for a one-time permanent resident return pass from the Canadian embassy and consulate abroad. According to Canadian immigration regulations, when arriving at the border, you can use any valid documents to prove that you are permanently resident, and you do not have to present a maple leaf card.

4. Maple Leaf Card Visa

Holding a maple leaf card does not require a visa, and you can go directly to any country that is visa-free to Canada. This card is different from a passport or visa. You cannot use it to other countries. Those places require a visa to enter. Maple Leaf Card is mainly designed to facilitate access to Canada, and it is not a visa. As for the visa requirements for individual passport holders in other countries, each country is different and must be clarified.

5. Drive into Canada with a maple leaf card

Driving back to Canada by land does not require a maple leaf card document. Every permanent resident must submit documents that prove their identity to border officials when entering the country, and the Maple Leaf Card is such a document. If you are unable to provide a maple leaf card, border officials have the right to ask you to provide any of the following supporting documents:

1. Fill in the "Permanent Resident Confirmation Form";

2. The original “immigration paper”;

3. There is a copy of immigration paper officially confirmed by the National Headquarters of the Immigration Department;

4. A letter issued by the National Headquarters of the Ministry of Immigration that can prove your permanent resident status.