Canada has an excellent immigration policy, which is why for many years, it has been a top choice of country to live in for immigrants. After all, it boasts of opportunities to advance your career, offers excellent welfare benefits, and more—all of which you can enjoy while taking in the spectacular views of the country’s natural beauty.
Many immigration programs require you to secure permanent residency first before becoming a Canadian citizen. Once you are eligible, you can then apply for citizenship. However, just because you meet all the requirements does not mean you need to apply as a citizen. You have the choice to keep your permanent resident status if you want to.
If you are considering whether you should remain a permanent resident or apply for citizenship once you are eligible, then this guide is for you. As immigration consultants in Toronto that you can rely on, we compiled some of the most important details you should know to help you make a more informed decision.
What Are the Benefits of Being a Canadian Permanent Resident?
Staying as a permanent resident instead of applying for Canadian citizenship grants you various privileges that you can enjoy. These include being able to study, work, or live wherever you want in Canada, travel around the country freely, access social benefits, and sponsor some of your family members to immigrate to Canada. You can also keep your home citizenship, have the rights and protections under the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms and Canadian laws, and apply for Canadian citizenship if you want to.
Keep in mind that as a Canadian permanent resident, you need to maintain your status, avoid losing it, and reapply to keep your permanent resident (PR) card if needed. You also need to follow Canadian laws, pay taxes, and meet the other obligations of permanent residency.
What Are the Benefits of Becoming a Canadian Citizen?
Pursuing Canadian citizenship instead of retaining your permanent resident status means you get to reap some benefits in addition to the advantages of permanent residency. If you qualify for becoming a Canadian citizen, you can run for office, vote in the election, travel on a Canadian passport, retain your citizenship unless you decide to renounce it, and become a dual citizen.
You have to meet all requirements to become eligible and enjoy the benefits of becoming a Canadian citizen. Also, you must go through the entire application process. It is best to seek help from a trusted immigration agency to make your application process easier and more efficient.
Conclusion
Choosing if you would retain your status as a permanent resident in Canada or seek application to become a Canadian citizen is a big decision that can make all the difference in your life. Bear in mind that as a PR cardholder, you are not obligated to become a Canadian citizen, which is why you have to consider your options carefully. By using the information mentioned above as your guide, you can come up with a decision that would help you live your best life possible.
Meanwhile, to help you get access to top-notch immigration services, trust only experienced immigration consultants. They can help you make your application process faster and more convenient.
If you’re looking for professional help from a trusted firm, please contact us at info@brightimmigration.com or call 1-888-404-8472.
No comment yet, add your voice below!