What is The Difference Between PR and Citizenship in Australia?

Are you considering a move to Australia but unsure of the difference between permanent residency (PR) and citizenship? Then, It is important to understand the distinction between Permanent Residency (PR) and citizenship. Both PR and citizenship offer several benefits and privileges, but they are not the same.

This blog aims to explain what is the difference between PR and citizenship in Australia, so you can make an informed decision about your immigration plans.

What is Australian Permanent Residency?

Australian Permanent Residency (PR) is a status granted to foreign nationals who are allowed to live and work in Australia on a permanent basis.

Holders of Australian PR have the right to enter and leave Australia multiple times, work and study in Australia, and access Australia's healthcare system, Medicare. They also have the ability to sponsor their family members for permanent residency.

In order to obtain Australian PR, individuals must meet certain eligibility criteria and go through a points-based system or other visa streams that allow for permanent residency.

Types of Visas to Gain Australian PR

1. Skilled Independent Visa (subclass 189)
2. Skilled Nominated Visa (subclass 190)
3. Employer-Sponsored Visas (subclass 186, 187, 482)
4. Business and Investment Visas (subclass 188, 888)
5. Partner Visas (subclass 820, 801, 309, 100)
6. Global Talent Visa (subclass 858)

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What is Australian Citizenship?

Australian citizenship is the legal status of being a member of the Australian community. It entitles an individual to live and work in Australia indefinitely, to vote in elections, to travel on an Australian passport, and to receive consular assistance while overseas.

Australian citizenship is obtained by meeting certain eligibility requirements, including being a permanent resident of Australia for a certain period of time, meeting the residency requirements, demonstrating good character, and passing a citizenship test.

Once an individual becomes an Australian citizen, they are entitled to the same rights and responsibilities as other citizens, including the right to participate in the democratic process and the responsibility to obey Australian laws.

How to Gain Australian Citizenship?

An individual must meet certain eligibility requirements in order to gain Australian citizenship. The below points are specifically for those who have acquired PR Visa and have been living in Australia for a few years:

1. Be a permanent resident of Australia for at least 1 year
2. You have been living on a valid visa in Australia for the last 4 years
3. Demonstrate good character, which includes obeying Australian laws.
4. Pass a citizenship test, which assesses the individual's knowledge of Australia's history, culture, and democratic values

What are the Key Differences Between PR and Citizenship in Australia?

Further breaking down, let us understand in detail What is the Difference Between PR and Citizenship in Australia.

1. Eligibility

The eligibility criteria for Australian Permanent Residency (PR) and Australian Citizenship differ significantly. To become a PR, an applicant must score enough points based on factors like age, work experience, education, language proficiency, etc.

However, to become an Australian citizen, the individual must first be a PR for at least one year, meet residency requirements, pass a citizenship test, and demonstrate good character.

2. Residency Requirements

PR holders in Australia are required to live in the country for at least two years out of every five years. If they leave Australia for a longer duration than allowed, they may lose their PR status.

In contrast, Australian citizens can leave and re-enter the country as many times as they want without affecting their status.

3. Medical Benefits

Talking about the medical benefits of Australian permanent resident vs citizen. Australian citizens are entitled to full Medicare coverage. This means that they can access all the medical services and treatments covered by Medicare without paying any out-of-pocket expenses. Citizens can also get free treatment in public hospitals and receive subsidized prescription medications under the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS).

However, Permanent residents are entitled to some Medicare benefits. They are not eligible for the same level of coverage as citizens. PR holders are entitled to free treatment in public hospitals, but they may have to pay for some medical services and treatments out-of-pocket. Additionally, PR holders are not eligible for PBS until they have been living in Australia for at least two years.

4. Rights and Privileges

Permanent resident vs citizen Australia holders both enjoy many rights and privileges, citizenship offers several additional benefits. For example, Australian citizens have unrestricted access to job opportunities in the government sector, can vote in federal and state elections, can apply for an Australian passport, and have the right to return to Australia at any time without a visa.

On the other hand, PR holders are not eligible to vote in Australian elections, cannot apply for an Australian passport, and may face travel restrictions.

5. Passport & Consular Assistance

Citizens of Australia have the right to apply for and hold an Australian passport, which is widely recognized as one of the most powerful passports in the world. They also have access to consular assistance while overseas, provided by the Australian government.

This means that if an Australian citizen encounters any issues while traveling abroad, such as losing their passport, becoming ill, or being arrested, they can receive assistance from the nearest Australian embassy or consulate.

On the other hand, PR holders are not eligible to apply for an Australian passport nor will have access to consular assistance.

6. Dual Citizenship

PR holders in Australia are allowed to hold dual citizenship, which means they can maintain their citizenship of another country while also holding PR status in Australia. Here is an article about dual citizenship and a list of countries that allow dual citizenship.

However, Australian citizenship applicants must renounce their previous citizenship if their country of origin does not allow dual citizenship. This requirement may pose a challenge for some individuals who do not want to give up their previous citizenship.

Unlock Your Australian Dreams: From PR to Citizenship

In conclusion, both PR vs Citizenship Australia comes with their own unique benefits and limitations. While PR holders enjoy most of the same rights and privileges as citizens, there are still important differences, such as the ability to vote, obtain a passport, and access certain government services. Ultimately, the decision of whether to pursue citizenship after obtaining PR status will depend on an individual's personal circumstances and long-term goals.

It is important to carefully consider all of the factors involved and seek professional guidance from GetGIS Immigration services to ensure the best possible outcome.

Our team of experts provides comprehensive assistance in navigating the complex immigration process. With our personalized approach, we ensure that our clients receive the best possible guidance and support to make their immigration journey as smooth and stress-free as possible. Book a Free Consultation Today!