Filipiniana News – June 2011 RHYME & REASON (Please note that this and all other articles written in this column are for legal information purposes only and not intended to provide specific legal advice. If you have related concerns, it is strongly advised that you consult with a lawyer or a paralegal licensed by the Law Society of Upper Canada or other relevant provincial law society, to discuss your particular situation.) Canada’s immigration laws underwent a major overhaul when the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (IRPA) was enacted in June 2002. Nearly ten years hence, several misconceptions still abound regarding the requirements and guidelines for maintaining one’s permanent resident status. When permanent resident (PR) cards were created, many thought that as long as they possess valid PR cards, their status as permanent residents will be safe. This is not necessarily true. Conversely, the lack of a valid PR card will not necessarily negate one’s