Australia is one of the most popular destinations for immigrants worldwide. It is known for its high quality of life, vibrant culture, and diverse landscapes. For candidates looking to settle in Australia, understanding the difference between an Australian Permanent Residency (PR) Visa & Australian Citizenship is very important. Both, the PR Visa and the Citizenship offer different rights & responsibilities to migrants.
Here’s a guide to the key differences between Permanent Residency and Citizenship in Australia.
Australia Permanent Residency Visa
Australia PR Visa is a permanent residency visa that allows the migrants to live, work & study indefinitely in the country. PR holders are not citizens of the country but they have a stable immigration status in the country with many benefits of citizenship.
Rights & Benefits of Australia PR Visa:
- Live, Work & Study in Australia: The PR holders of the country can live, work & study anywhere in the country. They have the same educational and work rights that an Australian Citizen has without applying for any separate visas.
- Healthcare: The PR holders of the country have access to medical services of the country.
- Social Services: The PR holders of the country are eligible for various social services & benefits provided by the govt such as such as parental leave, unemployment benefits, and public housing assistance.
- Travel Rights: The PR holders of the country can travel in and out of the country but they need a Resident Return Visa (RRV) to re-enter the country after traveling abroad.
Pathway to Australian Citizenship:
Permanent residency is a step towards the citizenship of the country. PR holders can apply for citizenship if they meet the specific eligibility criteria which are: (1) residing in Australia for 3 years as PR, (2) demonstrating good character, and (3) passing a citizenship test.
Citizenship in Australia
Australian citizenship is the legal status that grants individuals the rights and responsibilities of being a member of the Australian nation.
Rights & Benefits of Australian Citizenship:
- Voting Rights: Australian citizens have the right to vote in federal, state, and local elections.
- Passport: Australian Citizenship has the right to get an Australian Passport which offers visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to many countries and facilitates easier international travel.
- Legal Protection: Australian Citizens enjoy legal protections under Australian law and are entitled to consular assistance from Australian embassies abroad.
- Eligibility for Government Jobs: Government jobs and public sector roles are only available to Australian citizens.
Key differences between Australia PR Visa & Citizenship:
- Legal Status: Citizenship provides full rights and responsibilities of being a member of the Australian nation whereas PR only provides the right to reside and work indefinitely in the country.
- Political Rights: Australian citizens can vote in federal elections. PR holders do not have the right to vote.
- Travel Rights: Australian citizens have the benefits of an Australian passport, which facilitates easier international travel compared to PR holders, who may need to apply for additional visas or Resident Return Visas to re-enter the country after traveling abroad.
- Pathway to Citizenship: Permanent Residency leads to citizenship, provided that the individual meets the eligibility criteria.
Conclusion:
Choosing to stay on a PR visa or to get citizenship in Australia depends on the long-term goals of the migrant. While Permanent Residency offers many benefits and a pathway to becoming a citizen, Australian Citizenship provides full legal rights, including political participation and travel freedom in the country.
Get Free Assessment for Australia PR Visa
Free Points Calculator for Australia PR
Read More About Australia PR: