Citizenship Vs Permanent Residency

Immigration Lawyer Sydney

Many people try to become Australian Citizens, preferring this to Permanent Residency. We will explain the advantages.

Advantages of Citizenship:

You can stay in the country indefinitely, or travel in and out of the country as you see fit. A permanent resident can stay indefinitely in the country but needs to apply for a resident return Visa every five years for travel.

Citizens have a faster means of passing through airports when returning to Australia. Residents need to queue at airport immigration.

Australian Citizens get a high level of consular support if there is an incident while they travel overseas.

Some jobs, notably in the military, federal police, government, or department of foreign affairs, require citizenship.

Citizens can vote.

Citizens can get visa-free travel to most (not all) countries.

Australian Citizens get education benefits such as reduced fees and student loans.

Citizens will never be deported. Permanent residents might be deported under some circumstances.

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Immigration Lawyer Sydney Who can become an Australian Citizen:

Children born in Australia to a citizen or permanent resident automatically become Australian Citizen.

Children born overseas to an Australian citizen can register for Citizenship. This is regarded as equivalent to a child born in Australia.

Anybody who has been living in Australia as a permanent resident for four years or more can apply for citizenship.

Anybody married to an Australian Citizen or permanent resident can apply for citizenship, though they may need a Partner Visa first. The process may take several years.

Applicants for citizenship will need to:

• Be a permanent resident first
• Pass a citizenship test
• Meet good character requirements.
• Not be absent from the country for more than a year.
• May require an IELTS English test.

Immigration Lawyer Sydney

Immigration laws and citizenship laws are complex and often change. Immigration Lawyers offer the best chance for legal immigration and citizenship.

Disclaimer: The information in this article is provided for informational purposes only. It does not constitute legal advice and should not be relied upon as such. No individual should take, or refrain from taking, any action solely based on the material contained in this article. While we aim to offer accurate and timely information, we cannot guarantee its accuracy on the date of receipt or in the future. If you require more information or seek relevant legal advice specific to your circumstances, please contact our office.