Canadian citizenship is the goal of many immigrants who arrive in Canada. But before you can become a Canadian citizen, the first, crucial step is to become a Canadian permanent resident. There are many pathways to becoming a Canadian permanent resident, and at first glance, the differences may seem subtle.
Canadian Permanent Resident
A permanent resident is someone who has been given permanent resident status but is not yet a Canadian citizen. They are given a permanent resident (PR) card. This card, similar to the US "Green Card", allows a Canadian PR to live, work, and study anywhere in Canada. They are also afforded protection under the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms and have health care coverage. As a Canadian PR, you are expected to pay and file your taxes each year and abide by all Canadian laws.
Most importantly, they cannot apply for or obtain a Canadian passport. If a PR travels outside of Canada and their PR Card expires, they will need to apply for a Permanent Resident Travel Document (PRTD) to return to Canada. Without a valid PRTD, a permanent resident may face increased questioning at land borders and may not be able to board a flight back to Canada.
It is important to note that simply because your PR Card has expired, it does not mean that you will automatically lose your status. However, it is important to take steps to renew your PR Card as soon as possible - preferably before any planned travel.
There is a residency requirement attached to permanent resident cards. To maintain your status as a permanent resident, you must reside in Canada for 730 days during the last five years. These 730 days do not need to be continuous. If you do not meet your residency requirements, you may still be able to apply to renew your PR Card on humanitarian and compassionate grounds.
Canadian Citizen
A Canadian permanent resident can apply for Canadian citizenship if they meet the residency requirements.
To become a Canadian citizen you must
Be a permanent resident
Have lived in Canada for at least 1 095 days (or 3 years) out of the last 5 years
Filed your taxes (if applicable)
Pass a citizenship
Prove your language skills.
To find out more, click here.
As a Canadian citizen, you can apply for a Canadian passport. This means that if you would like to travel to a country such as the United States of America, you will not need to check visa requirements as you would as a Canadian permanent resident.
Citizens are also able to vote in the elections and hold office. They are also eligible to apply for certain jobs that may require a high-security clearance.
Once you are a citizen, there is nothing you need to do to maintain your status. There is no renewal process and you do not need to fill out any forms declaring your travel history to maintain your status as a Canadian citizen. The only way you can lose your Canadian citizenship is if you choose to renounce it. Canadian citizens do not need to fear being deported, so there is more stability in their status.
To find out more about Canadian permanent residence or Canadian citizenship, get in touch with the Law Office of Kristina Archer today. Immigrating to Canada can be tricky without help. That's where we can help. Book your consultation today to see how you can apply to become a Canadian permanent resident or a Canadian citizen.
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