Got PR, then couldn't travel back to CA for 15-20 years

[water_lilies]

In case of an expired PR card 15-20 years ago, without having fulfilled the residency obligations ,
would applying for a PRTD and then subsequent renewal of PR status on humanitarian grounds be a better idea OR applying for PR cancellation and a new immigration application.
Any advices?

 

[scylla]

In case of an expired PR card 15-20 years ago, without having fulfilled the residency obligations ,
would applying for a PRTD and then subsequent renewal of PR status on humanitarian grounds be a better idea OR applying for PR cancellation and a new immigration application.
Any advices?

The chances of a PRTD being approved under H&C are basically nil.

If you are able to enter the US / have a US visa, then one option would be to re-enter Canada through a land border using a private vehicle and hope you are not reported for failing to meet the residency requirement. If you are able to enter without being reported, then you could live in Canada for two years straight and then apply for a new PR card. During this two year period you might find it difficult to do certain things (like get health care coverage). Also, if you have a spouse or children, you wouldn't be able to sponsor them for PR until after living in Canada for 2 years.

The other option is as you've said. Renounce your PR status and apply again from scratch through an economic immigration program.