Australian Citizenship vs Permanent Residency: Key Differences

Australian Citizenship vs Permanent Residency: Key Differences

Australia remains to be one of the most visited countries in the world because of the lifestyle, steady economy, and rich culture it offers. Permanent Residency (PR) status is a huge step for any individual, especially those looking to become Australian citizens. This article helps provide clarity on some of the most important differences of PR and citizenship which can greatly affect an individual’s future in Australia. Immigration Buddy: best migration agent for australia

1. Definition and Status

Permanent Residency (PR)

PR holders are granted indefinite stay in Australia for work or study under a specific visa. Skilled migration, employer-sponsored programs and family reunification are just some of the visa categories that allow applicants to obtain PR status.

Australian Citizenship

Citizenship is the highest legal status in Australia which allows people to take part in the country’s social and political activities. This status enables them to exercise some additional rights on top of what PR holders enjoy.

2. Key Differences

1. Travel Rights

Permanent Residents: PR holders can stay in Australia for as long as they want. However, Australian’s need a Resident Return Visa (RRV) for re-entry to the country after traveling abroad if their initial five-year travel facility has expired.

Citizens: An Australian Citizen does not require a visa to travel abroad and has the freedom to enter or leave the country as they please.

2. Voting Rights

Permanent Residents: The Permanent Residents cannot participate in federal elections, although some states and territories permit PRs to participate in some local elections.

Citizens: Citizens of Australia are entitled to vote in all elections federal, state and local governments do hold, and they have the right to vote in all these elections.

3. Federal Employment and Welfare

Permanent Residents: Holders of this status are eligible to use most government services, which include Medicare, education, and some Centrelink payments. However, they cannot use some government positions and benefits as they are for citizens only.

Citizens: Citizens have full access to government employment and social security benefits, including those needing citizenship and long-term residency.

4. Rights Related to Australian Diplomatic Passport

Permanent Residents: Holders of PR remain citizens of the country they originate from; hence they are expected to travel using their national passport.

Citizens: A new Australian citizen is able to apply for an Australian passport, which gives them easy travel to a lot of countries without the need for a visa or allows them to obtain a visa when they arrive.

5. Multiple Citizenship

Permanent Residents: A person who enjoys PR status retains the citizenship of his/her country of origin, and it does not automatically change.

Citizens: Individuals granted with Australian citizenship may also keep their other nationality, Australia being on a list of those countries that accept dual citizenship, provided the person’s country of origin also allows it.

6. Losing Status With Permanent Residents—PR status can be removed if one does not renew the RRV, breaches visa terms, or becomes involved in serious crime. Citizens: Barring the application process having some form of fraud involved or being in serious crime, Citizenship is more secure.

7. Political participation Permanent Residents—PR holders are not able to run for office or participate in creating any form of policy for the nation. Citizens—Citizens have the right to run for any office and engage in politics at every level.

3. Steps to PR to Citizenship

 Citizenship in Australia is provided to anyone who meets the following requirements while holding a PR: Maintain PR for at least four years with at least a year of PR before application. Fulfill the residency requirement which includes not absenting from Australia for a certain period of time. Take and pass the citizenship test that revolves around Australian culture, history, and civic responsibility. Exhibit a commendable level of good character, which involves having no criminal record. Illustrate willingness to possess a deep bond with Australia.

4. Conclusion

Unlike Permanent Residency which offers a range of advantages, Australian citizens are afforded greater security, mobility, and political participation. Looking for opportunities for long-term stability and enhanced involvement within the society should consider citizenship where it is most applicable. That said, PR is still ideal for individuals who are not completely ready to embrace full citizenship as it provides great rights and opportunities for its holders.