Canada is a country that is widely known for its welcoming attitude towards immigrants. It offers several opportunities for individuals to immigrate and become permanent residents or citizens. However, many people often need clarification about the difference between a Canadian Permanent Resident (PR) and a Canadian Citizen. This blog will discuss what is PR in Canada, PR requirements and the three main differences between a Canadian Permanent Resident and Citizen.
What is PR in canada?
PR or Permanent Resident is granted to foreign nationals authorised to permanently live and work in Canada. This status is obtained through the immigration process, either through family sponsorship, a job offer from a Canadian employer, or by applying through one of the immigration programs offered by the Canadian government.
Once an individual has been granted PR status, they are issued a PR card, which allows them to enter and exit Canada as a permanent resident. A PR card is valid for five years and can be renewed by meeting the residency requirements.
Canadian Permanent Residents have several rights and responsibilities. They are entitled to most Canadian citizens’ social benefits, including healthcare coverage, social security benefits, and access to education. However, they are not eligible for certain benefits reserved for Canadian citizens, such as voting rights and eligibility for certain government jobs.
Canada PR requirements
To apply for Permanent Residency in Canada, there are certain requirements that an individual must meet. These requirements vary depending on the immigration program that the applicant is applying for. Here are some general requirements for most Canadian PR programs:
Language Proficiency:
Applicants must be proficient in either English or French, as these are the official languages of Canada. To demonstrate their language skills, they must take a language proficiency test, such as the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) or the Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program (CELPIP).
Education and Work Experience:
Applicants must have a certain education and work experience level to be eligible for Canadian PR. The minimum educational requirement is a high school diploma or equivalent. Applicants must also have at least one year of work experience in a skilled occupation, which is classified under the National Occupational Classification (NOC) system.
Age:
Applicants must be at least 18 to apply for Canadian PR.
Health and Character Requirements:
Applicants must undergo a medical examination and provide a police clearance certificate to demonstrate that they are in good health and have no criminal record.
Proof of Funds:
Applicants must provide proof that they have enough funds to support themselves and their family members accompanying them to Canada. This requirement varies depending on the number of family members and the location of the intended settlement.
Other Requirements:
Depending on the immigration program, there may be additional requirements, such as job offers from Canadian employers or sponsorship from a Canadian citizen or permanent resident.
It is essential to note that meeting the eligibility requirements does not guarantee issuing a PR status. Before granting the PR status, the Canadian government assesses each application based on several factors, including language skills, education, work experience, age, adaptability, and other criteria.
Differences Between a Canadian Permanent Resident vs Citizen
1. Citizenship Status:
The primary difference between a Canadian Permanent Resident and Citizen is their citizenship status. Canadian Permanent Residents are foreign nationals granted the right to permanently live and work in Canada. They hold a PR card and must renew it every five years to maintain their status. However, they need the right to vote in Canadian elections, have a Canadian passport, or apply for Canadian government jobs.
On the other hand, Canadian Citizens are individuals who were either born in Canada or have gone through the process of obtaining Canadian citizenship. They enjoy all the rights and privileges of Canadian citizenship, including the right to vote, work in government jobs, and hold a Canadian passport.
2. Residency Requirements:
The residency requirements for Canadian Permanent Residents and Citizens are different. Canadian Permanent Residents must maintain their residency in Canada to keep their status valid. They must spend at least 730 days (two years) out of every five years in Canada to maintain their residency status. Failure to meet this requirement may result in losing their permanent residency status.
On the other hand, Canadian Citizens do not have any residency requirements. They can live outside Canada for an extended period without losing citizenship.
3. Eligibility for Social Benefits:
Canadian Permanent Residents and Citizens are eligible for different social benefits. Permanent Residents are entitled to most social benefits that Canadian citizens receive, including healthcare coverage, social security benefits, and access to education. However, they are not eligible for certain benefits reserved for Canadian citizens, such as voting rights and eligibility for specific government jobs.
On the other hand, Canadian Citizens are entitled to all social benefits available in Canada, including voting rights, eligibility for government jobs, and access to student loans and grants.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Canadian Permanent Residents and Citizens have different rights and privileges. Permanent Residents have the right to live and work in Canada permanently, but they do not have the same rights and freedoms as Canadian Citizens. Citizenship offers more significant benefits, including the right to vote, access to government jobs, and eligibility for all social benefits available in Canada. Therefore, individuals must carefully consider their options and understand the requirements for Permanent Residency and Citizenship before deciding.
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