Becoming a permanent resident in Canada is a significant achievement, but there are key differences between permanent residency and citizenship that potential immigrants should be aware of:
Voting Rights:
Permanent Resident: Permanent residents do not have the right to vote in Canadian elections, meaning they cannot participate in choosing the country’s leaders.
Citizen: Citizens have full voting rights and can vote in federal, provincial, and municipal elections. This allows citizens to have a direct say in shaping the future of the country.
Canadian Passport:
Permanent Resident: As a permanent resident, you will need to use the passport of your home country when traveling abroad. This can sometimes limit your travel options depending on the passport’s visa requirements.
Citizen: Citizens are eligible to apply for a Canadian passport, which is highly regarded and offers visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to many countries worldwide. Having a Canadian passport provides greater travel flexibility and security.
Duration of Stay Outside Canada:
Permanent Resident: Permanent residents must meet residency requirements, meaning they need to live in Canada for at least 730 days within a five-year period to maintain their status. Failure to meet this requirement can result in losing permanent residency status.
Citizen: Citizens can live outside Canada for as long as they want without any impact on their citizenship. This gives them greater freedom to live, work, or travel abroad without worrying about losing their status.
Conclusion:
Understanding the differences between permanent residency and citizenship can help you as a potential immigrant to plan your long-term future in Canada. Let Bluefern Immigration Services guide you through the process of achieving your immigration goals.
If you have any questions or need further assistance, feel free to reach out. We’re here to help you every step of the way on your journey to Canada!
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