Millions of people from all over the world migrate to Australia, making it one of the most linguistically diverse and multicultural nations in the world. Prior to obtaining Australian citizenship, immigrants usually begin their journey with a Permanent Residency (PR) visa. They can seek for citizenship after residing in Australia for four years in a row, including one year while holding a permanent residence permit.
There are several rights and obligations that are unique to Australian citizens, even though PR holders have many of the same advantages. The main advantages that citizens and PR holders have in common are examine in this article, along with the distinctions that make citizenship unique.
Advantages for Permanent Residency and Australian Citizenship
There are numerous rights and advantages that both Australian citizens and PR holders have, such as:
- Rights of Travel
Citizens and PR holders are free to enter and exit Australia. While citizens with an Australian passport enjoy unrestricted travel rights, PR holders are require to renew their travel privileges every five years.
- Access to Health Care
The Medicare system provides government-subsidized medical services to both citizens and permanent residents. This implies that there are no costs associates with their treatment in the public hospital. In general, Australia has been providing a high-quality, subsidized healthcare system for both citizens and permanent residents, albeit in certain instances, they still have to pay the out-of-pocket price, which is the difference between the actual medical costs and the government support level.
- Benefits from Social Security
Family Tax Benefits, Childcare Subsidy, Parenting Payment, JobSeeker Payment, Youth Allowance, Rent Assistance, Age Pension, and the Energy Supplement are among the social security benefits available to citizens and PR holders.
- Education and Learning
Public education systems are free to use for both citizens and PR. Additionally, they are eligible for domestic tuition at colleges and universities, which is far less than what international students must pay.
- Loans from banks
Citizens and PR holders can apply for bank loans to buy real estate in Australia. This is a significant benefit for PR holders seeking home ownership compared to temporary residents in Australia.
Distinctions between permanent residency and Australia citizenship
Despite these advantages, there are also significant differences between citizenship and permanent residence.
- Travel Rights and Legal Status
Permanent residents are entitle to remain and work in Australia for as long as they like. They are granted a PR visa with a five-year travel facility, which allows them to enter and exit Australia for five years. To re-enter Australia, PR holders must apply for a Resident Return Visa (RRV) every five years.
Australian citizens, as opposed to those with permanent residence permits, are free to enter the nation without any limitations. Citizens can enter Australia without a visa. Because it eliminates the need to renew or maintain a visa, this status is especially advantageous for people who travel frequently.
- Participation in politics and voting
Voters can participate in local, state, and federal elections and have full voting rights.
In federal elections, PR holders are not eligible to vote. Although it is uncommon, a few states might let PR holders to cast ballots in municipal elections.
- Jobs in the Public Sector and Government
While PR holders are not eligible for many government jobs that need citizenship or a security clearance. citizens are able to work in all government and public sector posts. PR holders, for instance: not permitted to apply for permanent positions in the Australian Government. or join the Australian Defence Force.
- Access to Social Security
While an Australian can start receiving Centerlink social benefits right away. PR holders must wait a year or two to get the full benefits.
- Government Loans and Benefits for Education
While studying in Australia, PR holders are eligible for local tuition fees. But their access to government loans severely restricted. To improve financial support for higher education, Australian citizens can, however, fully utilize government loans, including the Higher Education Loan Program, as well as other scholarship options.
- Loss of Status and Deportation
If a PR holder violates residency requirements or commits specific crimes. their status may withdrawn (e.g., not renewing a Resident Return Visa). Since PR status depends on a visa, it might be revoked.
With rare exceptions for dual-citizens engaged in terrorism-related activities. Australian citizens cannot be deported or have their citizenship revoked due to residency or criminal crimes. One major benefit of citizenship is this degree of stability. particularly for individuals who want to ensure their future in Australia permanently.
The main distinctions between Australian citizenship and PR holders are summed up in the table below.
| Component | PR (Permanent Residency) | Australian Citizenship |
| Rights of Travel | five-year travel privilege; After expiration, RRV is needed. | With an Australian passport, travel is free and unfettered. |
| Right to vote | Absence of the ability to vote in federal elections | Complete voting rights in every election |
| Government Employment | Few opportunities in the public sector | Complete access to government and public sector employment |
| Social Safety /Security | Limited; waiting period for full benefits is two years. | Instant eligibility for Social Security benefits |
| Medical Care | Medicare Access | Complete access to Medicare |
| Advantages of Education | Domestic charges and a small amount of government funding | More HECS-HELP and scholarships |
| Status Security | The PR status may be withdrawn. | Citizenship lasts for the rest of one’s life. |
Conclusion
PR holders are still able to live, work, and access vital Australian welfare benefits, even if they do not enjoy the same security and privileges as Australian citizen. They are entitled to apply for Australian citizenship after a year of having PR status (and four years of continuous residency in Australia).
Do you want permanent residence in Australia? To realize your ambition, get in touch with our knowledgeable DK Visa Consultant experts.
FAQ
Q1. Does Australian citizenship equate to permanent residency?
Ans: An Australian citizen is not the same as an Australian permanent resident. You can often stay in Australia indefinitely as a permanent resident. Work and study in Australia.
Q2. Do Australian citizens and permanent residents have the same rights?
Ans: Although there are certain distinctions, a permanent resident of Australia enjoys many of the same privileges as an Australian citizen. However permanent residents need a valid travel authorization. The right to vote belongs to adult citizens. Permanent residents who are adults don’t.
Q3. Is it hard to get PR in Australia?
Ans: Australia is regarded as one of the nations that grants permanent residence the simplest. You must apply for and be granted a permanent visa in order to become a permanent resident of Australia. You can stay in Australia indefinitely if you have a permanent visa.
Q4. In which Australian state is it easiest to obtain permanent residency?
Ans: Tasmania is the greatest choice among these if you want to obtain uncomplicated permanent residence in Australia. Tasmania has lot to offer foreign workers and students.