While permanent residency in Canada offers many benefits, it doesn't guarantee the same level of security as citizenship. One crucial difference lies in deportation risks.
Permanent residents face the possibility of removal from Canada for various reasons, including criminal convictions. A recent case involving a permanent resident convicted of robbery highlights this vulnerability. Despite receiving a reduced sentence, the court acknowledged the deportation risk associated with a harsher punishment, emphasizing the precarious position non-citizens occupy.
Deportation Risks:
- Permanent Residents:
Despite being granted the right to live in Canada indefinitely, permanent residents are not immune to deportation. There are certain circumstances under which a permanent resident may face deportation, such as committing serious criminal offences, violating immigration laws, or failing to meet residency requirements. Even minor criminal offences can lead to deportation proceedings, depending on the severity and nature of the offence. Additionally, if a permanent resident's status is revoked due to criminal activity or other reasons, they may be subject to removal from Canada. - Citizens:
Canadian citizens, on the other hand, cannot be deported from Canada. Citizenship provides the highest level of security against removal from the country. Once citizenship is granted, individuals have the right to remain in Canada indefinitely, regardless of their actions or circumstances. However, it's worth noting that citizens who engage in serious criminal activities may still face legal consequences within the Canadian justice system, but deportation is not one of those consequences.
The Distinction Between The Rights of Canadian Citizens v. Permanent Residents
- Citizenship is a privilege, not a guarantee. You must actively seek and qualify for it.
- Canada offers a high quality of life, but permanent residency doesn't equate to full citizenship rights.
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Understanding the Key Differences:
Permanent Resident:
While permanent residents enjoy many of the benefits and protections afforded to citizens in Canada, citizenship offers a higher level of security, mobility and participation in Canadian society and governance.
- Rights:
- Social benefits (healthcare)
- Work and study freedom
- Legal protection
- Application for citizenship
- Limited ability to live outside Canada.
- Limitations:
- No voting rights
- Ineligible for federal office
- Restricted access to high-security jobs
- Unable to obtain a Canadian passport
- Requires PR card renewal every 5 years
Canadian Citizen:
- Full rights and privileges:
- Vote
- Hold office
- Obtain a passport and travel abroad
- Enjoy all legal protections under the Charter
The Facts On Canadian Citizenship
Canadian citizenship offers a significant safeguard against deportation compared to permanent residency. While permanent residency provides valuable opportunities, pursuing citizenship strengthens your connection to Canada and grants you the full spectrum of rights and protections. Permanent residency in Canada offers many benefits and opportunities, including the right to live and work in the country indefinitely, it does not provide the same level of security against deportation as citizenship does. Citizenship offers greater legal protections and long-term stability, ensuring that individuals can fully participate in Canadian society without the risk of being removed from the country.
Consult an experienced immigration lawyer for personalized guidance on becoming a Canadian Citizen.
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Contact a Qualified Canada Citizenship Immigration Lawyer
Ackah Business Immigration Law simplifies the immigration and citizenship process, addresses your specific needs and delivers exceptional results for businesses and individuals. Decades of experience, unparalleled knowledge and a proven track record of satisfied clients make us the clear choice for your Canadian immigration journey. With offices in Calgary, Vancouver and Toronto, we serve clients across Canada and around the globe.
Contact us today and let's make your Canadian ambitions a reality. Contact Ackah Law today at (587) 854‑3821 or email us directly at contact@ackahlaw.com.
