Canada has introduced new, high-tech identity cards for its permanent residents.

The federal minister for citizenship and immigration, Jason Kenney, said the new cards, which were rolled out beginning August 24, contain security features that comply with international standards for travel documents. However, the PR card, as it is more known, is not a replacement for the traditional passport, but they can be used to re-enter Canada.

The new cards contain fine line patterns and micro lettering that cannot be copied. Besides, the owner’s personal details and photograph will be recorded on a bar code that can be read only by Canadian officials possessing the necessary equipment.

The minister says the government has to keep up with technological advances, which also mean smugglers and others copying PR cards.

Those receiving their permanent residence after August 24th will automatically receive the new card while for those currently possessing one, new cards will be issued once they apply for new ones after the expiration of the current card.

The current ones are valid until they expire.

Canada introduced the PR cards in 2002.