When exploring the options of going abroad, you might have come across the terms like Permanent Resident and Citizen. The question arises, what is the difference between a citizen and a permanent resident? A permanent resident is a legal status given to foreign natives in various countries. The term Permanent Resident signifies that you have the right to stay in the host country for an indefinite period. However, the citizens of a country enjoy the highest legal designation, they have all the rights and privileges. People usually acquire citizenship at birth within a certain territory, through descent from a citizen parent, by marrying a citizen, or by naturalisation.
What is the difference between a Citizen and a Permanent Resident
Although people often use the two terms “Citizen” and “Permanent Resident” interchangeably, they significantly vary. Citizenship allows people to fully enjoy a country’s basic rights, exercise freedom, and have certain responsibilities on them.
Difference Between Citizen and Permanent Resident: Right to vote
Citizens have the privilege of casting a vote in elections or referendums. The right is exclusive only to the citizens of that particular country. However, authorities do not allow Permanent Residents to participate in any democratic process. In addition, the citizens have a passport from their country of citizenship which aids them in international travel. In most countries, the permanent residents cannot obtain the passport of the host country.
Difference Between Citizen and Permanent Resident: Public Office
Individuals who hold citizenship of a country are eligible to apply for any government job and hold any position within the government. Individuals with the legal status of Permanent residents do not have this opportunity to be part of government jobs or hold public offices. Authorities reserve these positions for citizens only because citizens have the right to form and shape national policies and governance.
Difference Between Citizen and Permanent Resident: Obligations and Responsibilities
The citizens have greater privileges, but this comes with a responsibility to repay the country. Citizens owe their country and must fulfill their duties and follow the laws and regulations set by the state. The citizens have a prime duty to safeguard the country, even if it means joining the military service. The citizens have to work towards the well-being of their country and be responsible citizens by paying taxes and jury duty. Permanent residents do have to pay taxes, but they cannot join the military unless they gain citizenship after naturalisation.
Difference Between Citizen and Permanent Resident: Living outside the country
If you are a citizen of any country, you can live outside that country for as long as you want. Your citizenship will not be affected unless you voluntarily surrender it. However, if you are a permanent resident, you must live in the country for a given period. Like in Canada, you have to live in Canada for a minimum of two years in five years. If you fail to live in Canada, you might lose your legal status.
Difference Between Citizen and Permanent Resident: Benefits
Citizens can enjoy the maximum benefits that their home country has to offer them. On the other hand, permanent residents also have the freedom to do whatever they wish without having to gain additional permits. But they have certain restrictions for example, they cannot apply for certain jobs and positions. They also have certain restrictions when it comes to traveling internationally. Permanent residents will always need a valid passport from the country of their citizenship. The government provides social security benefits to permanent residents. However, they cannot access all the benefits and services available to citizens.
Can You Gain Citizenship in the Host Country?
Gaining citizenship in your host country has become a goal of many international residents. After having the legal status of permanent residence, you can apply for citizenship. There are several routes you can follow to obtain citizenship. Although the process of gaining citizenship varies from country to country, we have described some common routes below.
Obtaining Citizenship Through Descent
Obtaining citizenship through descent, also known as citizenship through ancestry, is an easy way to acquire citizenship. There is a legal rule that if your family is a citizen of a particular country, you automatically gain the status of citizen based on your family background. If your parents are citizens of a country, you are granted citizenship regardless of where you were born.
Obtaining Citizenship through Marriage
Citizenship through marriage means that you gain citizenship by marrying someone who is already a citizen of that country. To be eligible for this citizenship, you must have a genuine marital relationship with a citizen of that country, meet the standardized residency requirements, and pass the language test.
Obtaining Citizenship through Naturalisation
Naturalisation is the process through which the individuals holding the legal status of permanent residents become citizens of a country through the legal process. Living in a country for a specific period usually qualifies you for citizenship, however, the required stay duration varies across countries. In addition, your profile should exhibit adherence to the rules and regulations of the country and demonstrate good character. Taking an oath and clearing the citizenship test and language proficiency test is mandatory when applying for naturalisation.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while citizens enjoy full rights and responsibilities, permanent residents have limitations such as not being able to vote or join the military. However, there are various routes available to obtain citizenship, including descent, marriage, and naturalization, each with its requirements and processes.
