Understanding the differences between permanent resident and citizenship is crucial for anyone planning to immigrate or naturalize to a new country. Both statuses come with their own set of rights, responsibilities, and benefits.
This blog will outline the key differences between permanent resident and citizenship to help you make an informed decision.
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Permanent Resident
A permanent resident is a foreign national granted the right to live and work in a country indefinitely. Permanent residents have many of the same rights as citizens, such as the right to work and access public services.
However, they do not have the full citizenship rights, such as the right to vote or run for public office. Permanent residents must carry their permanent resident card (PR card) as proof of their status.
Citizenship
Citizenship is the legal status of being a member of a particular country. Citizens have all the rights and responsibilities of that country, including the right to vote, run for public office, and hold a passport.
Citizenship is usually acquired by birth, descent, or naturalization. Naturalization is when a permanent resident becomes a citizen after meeting certain requirements.
Naturalization Between Permanent Resident and Citizenship
Naturalization is how a noncitizen not born in the United States voluntarily becomes a U.S. citizen. The most common path to U.S. citizenship through naturalization is being a lawful permanent resident (LPR) for at least five years.
To be eligible for naturalization based on being a lawful permanent resident for at least five years.
One must meet several requirements, including being at least 18 years old when submitting Form N-400, Application for Naturalization, and demonstrating continuous residence in the United States for at least five years immediately before the date you file Form N-400.
You must also be able to read, write, and speak basic English. Because of their age and time as an LPR, certain applicants do not have to take English.
Process of Acquisition
Acquiring permanent resident and citizenship status involves several steps and varies from country to country. However, there are some common elements that most countries require for the acquisition of permanent resident and citizenship status.
Acquiring Permanent Residency
To become a permanent resident, you must apply to the immigration authorities of the country you wish to reside in. The eligibility criteria and application process vary from country to country.
Generally, you must meet certain requirements such as having a job offer, being a close relative of a citizen or permanent resident, or being a refugee.
The application process usually involves submitting various documents, paying a fee, and undergoing a medical examination and background check.
The processing time for permanent resident applications varies, but it can take several months or even years.
Eligibility Criteria
The eligibility criteria for acquiring permanent resident status may include having a job offer, being a close relative of a citizen or permanent resident, or being a refugee.
Some countries also have specific programs for investors, entrepreneurs, or skilled workers.
Application Process
The application process for permanent resident status usually involves submitting documents such as a completed application form, identification documents, proof of eligibility, and any other documents required by the immigration authorities.
You may also be required to pay a fee and undergo a medical examination and background check.
Processing Time
The processing time for permanent resident applications varies from country to country and can take several months or even years. It may also depend on the category under which you are applying and the volume of applications received by the immigration authorities.
Acquiring Citizenship
To become a citizen, you must first be a permanent resident and meet certain requirements, such as living in the country for a specific number of years, demonstrating knowledge of the country’s language and culture, and passing a citizenship test.
The application process usually involves submitting various documents, paying a fee, and taking an oath of allegiance. The processing time for citizenship applications varies, but it can take several months or even years.
Eligibility Criteria
The eligibility criteria for acquiring citizenship usually include being a permanent resident, living in the country for a specific number of years, demonstrating knowledge of the country’s language and culture, and passing a citizenship test.
Application Process
The application process for citizenship usually involves submitting documents such as a completed application form, identification documents, proof of eligibility, and any other documents required by the immigration authorities. You may also be required to pay a fee and take an oath of allegiance.
Processing Time
The processing time for citizenship applications varies from country to country and can take several months or even years. It may also depend on the volume of applications received by the immigration authorities.
Rights and Privileges
Understanding the rights and privileges of being a permanent resident and citizenship is crucial for making an informed decision. Both statuses offer different freedoms and limitations that can significantly impact your life in a new country.
Rights of Permanent Residents
Permanent residents can live, work, and study in the country indefinitely. They can also access public services such as healthcare and education.
However, permanent residents do not have the right to vote or run for public office. They can also be deported if they commit a serious crime or fail to maintain their permanent resident status.
Living and Working
As a permanent resident, you have the right to live permanently in the United States, provided you do not commit any actions that would make you removable under immigration law.
You can work in any legal job of your qualification and choosing, although some jobs may be limited to U.S. citizens for security reasons.
Legal Protections
Permanent residents are protected by all laws of the United States, their state of residence, and local jurisdictions. This means you have the right to legal protection just like any citizen.
Responsibilities
Permanent residents are required to obey all laws of the United States and localities. They must file income tax returns and report their income to the U.S.
Internal Revenue Service and state taxing authorities. Males between 18 and 25 are required to register with the Selective Service.
Rights of Citizens
Citizens have all the rights and responsibilities of the country, including the right to vote, run for public office, and hold a passport.
They can also access all public services and cannot be deported. Citizens are responsible for obeying the country’s laws, paying taxes, and serving on a jury if required.
Voting and Political Participation
Citizens have the unique right to vote in federal, state, and local elections. They can also run for public office, a privilege not extended to permanent residents.
Passport and International Travel
Citizens have the right to hold a passport, which allows for easier international travel and offers protection abroad.
Immunity from Deportation
Citizens cannot be deported from the country unless they obtained citizenship fraudulently. This provides a level of security not afforded to permanent residents.
Civic Responsibilities
Citizens are expected to support the democratic form of government, including voting in elections and serving on a jury. They must also pay taxes and obey all laws, similar to permanent residents.
Responsibilities and Obligations
Understanding the responsibilities and obligations associated with permanent resident and citizenship status is crucial for maintaining your legal status in a country.
Both permanent residents and citizens have specific responsibilities that they must fulfill to avoid legal consequences.
Responsibilities of Permanent Residents
Permanent residents have several responsibilities that they must fulfill to maintain their status and avoid legal issues.
Renewal of Permanent Resident Card
Permanent residents must renew their permanent resident card (PR card) before it expires. The PR card is the official proof of status as a permanent resident in a country.
Failure to renew the PR card may result in difficulties in proving your status and can cause problems when traveling or accessing certain services.
Informing Immigration Authorities of Changes
Permanent residents must inform the immigration authorities of any changes to their personal information, such as a change of address or marital status.
This is important for keeping the immigration records current and can affect the eligibility for citizenship or other immigration benefits.
Obeying the Laws and Paying Taxes
Permanent residents must obey the laws of the country and pay taxes. Failure to do so can result in legal consequences and may affect the eligibility for citizenship or other immigration benefits.
Responsibilities of Citizens
Citizens have several responsibilities that they must fulfill as members of a country.
Obeying the Laws and Paying Taxes
Citizens are responsible for obeying the country’s laws and paying taxes. This is a fundamental duty of all citizens and is essential for the functioning of society and the government.
Serving on a Jury
Citizens may be required to serve on a jury if called upon. Jury service is an important civic duty and essential for the legal system’s functioning.
Voting in Elections
Citizens are responsible for voting in elections and participating in the democratic process. Voting is a fundamental right and responsibility of citizens and is essential for the functioning of the democracy.
Carrying Passport When Traveling
Citizens must carry their passports when traveling outside the country. The passport is the official document proving citizenship and is required for international travel.
Revocation and Loss of Status
Understanding how one can lose permanent resident or citizenship status is crucial for maintaining one’s legal standing in a country.
The consequences of losing either status can be severe, including deportation or being barred from reentry into the country.
Losing Permanent Resident Status
Permanent resident status, contrary to its name, is not always permanent. You can lose this status in several ways, and it’s essential to be aware of them to avoid any legal complications.
Living Outside the Country
One of the most common ways to lose permanent resident status is by living outside the country for an extended period. Generally, spending more than 12 months outside the United States can result in losing your permanent resident status.
Even shorter absences can trigger abandonment if, upon reentry, the Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officer determines that you intend to live outside the United States. Failing to file income taxes while living abroad can also lead to removal proceedings.
Voluntary Surrender
Some people voluntarily abandon their permanent resident status by filing Form I-407. This action is often taken to escape the obligation of paying U.S. taxes.
However, this decision should not be made lightly and should be discussed with an immigration attorney and tax professional.
Fraud and Misrepresentation
Committing fraud or willful misrepresentation can also result in losing permanent resident status. This includes lying on immigration applications, during interviews, or any exchange of information with immigration officials.
Criminal Convictions
Certain types of criminal offenses, typically violent crimes, can put a permanent resident in removal proceedings.
Not all criminal convictions will lead to this outcome, but it’s crucial to consult an immigration attorney if you find yourself in such a situation.
Failing to Remove Conditions
Some permanent residents have conditional status, usually related to marriage or investment. Failing to file a petition to remove these conditions can result in losing permanent resident status.
Losing Citizenship
Losing citizenship is less common but can occur under specific circumstances.
Committing Treason or Taking Arms Against the Country
Committing acts of treason or taking up arms against the country can result in the loss of citizenship. These are severe offenses that are not taken lightly.
Acquiring Another Citizenship
Some countries do not allow dual citizenship. In such cases, acquiring citizenship in another country can result in losing your original citizenship. Always check the laws concerning dual citizenship before making such a move.
Fraudulent Acquisition
If authorities find that you acquired your citizenship through fraudulent means, you could lose your citizenship status. This could include lying on your citizenship application or during your citizenship interview.
Benefits for Family Members
Navigating the immigration process can be complex and overwhelming, but understanding the benefits available to family members of permanent residents and citizens can make the journey easier.
Both permanent residents and citizens can sponsor family members for immigration to their country of residence, but there are differences in the eligibility criteria, application process, and benefits available.
Benefits for Family of Permanent Residents
Family members of permanent residents may be eligible to apply for permanent resident status. The eligibility criteria and application process vary from country to country.
Generally, spouses, common-law partners, and dependent children of permanent residents are eligible to apply.
The application process usually involves submitting various documents, paying a fee, and undergoing a medical examination and background check.
Benefits for Family of Citizens
Family members of citizens may be eligible to apply for citizenship or permanent resident status. The eligibility criteria and application process vary from country to country.
Generally, spouses, common-law partners, and dependent children of citizens are eligible to apply.
The application process usually involves submitting various documents, paying a fee, and taking an oath of allegiance.
Pathway to Citizenship
Permanent residents can apply for citizenship after meeting certain requirements, such as living in the country for a specific number of years, demonstrating knowledge of the country’s language and culture, and passing a citizenship test.
The application process usually involves submitting various documents, paying a fee, and taking an oath of allegiance.
Naturalization Process
Naturalization is the process by which citizenship is granted to a lawful permanent resident after meeting the requirements established by Congress in the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA).
According to the USCIS, becoming a U.S. citizen is one of the most important decisions an immigrant can make. There are different ways to obtain citizenship depending on your situation.
For example, you can acquire citizenship through U.S. citizen parents at birth or after birth but before age 18.
Other pathways include being a lawful permanent resident for 5 years, being married to a U.S. citizen, serving in the U.S. military, or being the child of a U.S. citizen.
Requirements for Naturalization
To become a U.S. citizen through naturalization, you must be a lawful permanent resident, be able to read, write, and speak English, have a knowledge of U.S. government and history, and be a person of good moral character.
There are also residency and physical presence requirements. For example, you must have been a permanent resident of the United States for at least 5 years or 3 years if you are married to a U.S. citizen.
Application Process
The application process for U.S. citizenship involves several steps. First, you must determine if you are eligible to apply for citizenship.
Next, you must complete and submit the Application for Naturalization (Form N-400) along with the required documents and fees.
After submitting your application, you will be scheduled for a biometrics appointment and an interview with a USCIS officer.
During the interview, you will be tested on your English and U.S. government and history knowledge. If your application is approved, you will be scheduled to take the Oath of Allegiance at a naturalization ceremony.
Oath of Allegiance
Taking the Oath of Allegiance is the final step in the naturalization process.
During the ceremony, you will swear your allegiance to the United States and renounce any foreign allegiances. After taking the oath, you will receive your Certificate of Naturalization and officially become a U.S. citizen.
Dual Nationality
It is important to note that some countries do not allow dual citizenship and require citizens to renounce their previous citizenship before acquiring a new one.
However, the United States allows dual nationality, which means you can be a citizen of the United States and another country simultaneously.
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Adam is an internationally recognised author on financial matters with over 830million answer views on Quora, a widely sold book on Amazon, and a contributor on Forbes.
