Are you interested in immigrating to Canada and wonder how the immigration process works? Canada has a unique immigration system with a variety of options for foreign nationals. It is also one of the most sought-after countries for immigration. In addition to that, Canada is one of the most economically developed countries in the world and is known for its multiculturalism. Many individuals aspire to move to Canada sometime in their lives. There are two pathways to live in Canada permanently: Citizenship and Permanent Residence (PR). Keep in mind that Immigration to Canada can be a complex process. That is why it is important to understand the difference between Canadian Citizenship and Permanent Residency. Here's what you need to know.
Canadian Citizenship
Before becoming a citizen, an individual must become a permanent resident. Permanent residents can submit an application for citizenship after meeting eligibility requirements. To apply to become a Canadian citizen, you need to fill out the necessary forms, collect supporting documents, and pay the fees. After, you will need to take a citizenship test and undergo an interview. There is also a ceremony and an Oath of Citizenship you need to attend, which usually occurs about three months after passing the test. Since there are a lot of requirements and paperwork that need to be submitted, it's best to work with an immigration lawyer who can help you through the process. If you reside in Calgary, Phoenix Legal can provide guidance and legal assistance for your citizen application.
What Are the Benefits of Becoming a Canadian Citizen?
The primary difference between Canadian citizenship and permanent residence is that, with the citizenship status, you are eligible to vote in an election, run for political office, and travel on a Canadian passport. You can also retain your citizenship or choose to become a dual citizen. Moreover, unlike the PR, you cannot lose your citizenship status unless you choose to do so.
Canadian Permanent Residency
In 2019 alone, 74,586 individuals transitioned from temporary residents to permanent residents of Canada. Permanent residence refers to an individual that has immigrated to Canada and received permanent resident status. Permanent residents are not Canadian citizens but citizens of other countries. As was mentioned above, it is also the first step you need to take if you want to become a citizen. Once your application is reviewed and approved, you will receive a Permanent Resident (PR) card. This is essentially the equivalent of a United States green card. Make sure to keep the card with you when you travel and renew it once it expires.
What Are the Benefits of Becoming a Canadian Permanent Resident?
Once you're a Canadian Permanent Resident, you can live, work, and study anywhere in Canada. You'll also receive most of the benefits of Canadian citizens, like universal healthcare coverage or free public school education for those under 18 years of age. In addition to that, permanent residents of Canada are eligible for reduced university tuition fees compared to international student rates. You will have protection under Canadian law and the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms. In addition to that, you can also sponsor your family. This can allow you to bring a spouse or children from another country to Canada. Children born in Canada will automatically receive Canadian citizenship. To maintain permanent resident status, you must live in Canada for a minimum of 730 days during a five-year period. You must also follow Canadian laws, pay your taxes, and meet other eligibility requirements.
Your Trusted Canadian Immigration Lawyer in Calgary
Navigating the process to become a Canadian Citizen or a Permanent Resident can get complicated. This is why having the right expert on your side matters. Let Phoenix Legal help you with the process. We are an immigration law firm in Calgary and ready to help you establish residency in Canada. To learn more about your options to immigrate to Canada, schedule an appointment today.