Becoming a permanent resident in Canada is a goal for people worldwide. Canada has a good healthcare system, high quality of life, and strong job market, it’s no wonder why.
As a permanent resident, you are welcomed into a diverse and vibrant society, given most of the rights of a Canadian citizen, and allowed to make Canada your forever home.
Whether you are considering leaping or are already on your path to permanent residency, numerous benefits will enrich your life in more ways than one.
It is not just about the legal status but about being part of a society that cherishes and promotes human dignity and progress.
So let’s look at some of the benefits of being a permanent resident in Canada in more detail.
Benefits of Being a Permanent Resident in Canada
Becoming a Canadian Citizen
If you live in Canada as a permanent resident (for 3 years out of the last 5), you can apply to become a full Canadian citizen. It lets you vote in elections, run for political positions, and travel with a Canadian passport. Becoming a citizen means you are officially a part of Canada, with all Canadians’ rights.
Bringing Family to Canada
Canada helps families stay together. If you are a permanent resident in Canada, you can help your husband, wife, kids, and even your parents or grandparents move to Canada. This is a special part of Canada’s rules, designed to make sure families can live close to each other in Canada.
Working in Canada
As a permanent resident, you have the right to work in Canada, just like a citizen. This means you can have any job that matches your skills and experience.
Cultural Difference
Canada is like a big family of people from many different places. As a permanent resident, you are part of a country that values this mix of cultures. Your traditions and ways of life are seen as something special that adds to the richness of Canadian society.
Traveling with a Resident Card
As a permanent resident, you get a special card called a Permanent Resident Card. This card makes it easy to re-enter Canada after traveling to other countries.
If you later become a citizen, you will get a Canadian passport. With this passport, you can travel to many countries worldwide, and often you won’t need a visa.
Living Safely in Canada
Canada is a very safe and stable country. As a permanent resident, you and your family can enjoy a peaceful life. The laws are strong and fair, and the government is stable, which means Canada is a great place for people looking for a bright, secure, and calm future.
Obligations of Being a Permanent Resident in Canada
While enjoying the benefits of being a permanent resident in Canada, there are several obligations and responsibilities that one must be aware of:
Paying Taxes
As a permanent resident, you must pay taxes on your income, both within and outside Canada, just like Canadian citizens.
Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) offers helpful guides and customer service, making the process more straightforward.
Respecting Canadian Laws
Permanent residents must respect all Canadian federal, provincial, territorial, and municipal laws. Caching any law could lead to a removal order, resulting in loss of permanent resident status.
Maintaining Your Residency Status
To retain your status as a permanent resident, you must live in Canada for at least 730 days (2 years) in the last 5 years.
Tracking your days and planning your travels carefully to maintain your residency status is crucial.
Considerations for Applying for Canadian Citizenship
While being a permanent resident comes with significant benefits, obtaining Canadian citizenship offers further advantages:
Voting and Political Engagement
Only Canadian citizens have the right to vote in federal, provincial, territorial, and municipal elections and referendums, and they can run for political office.
A Canadian Passport
A Canadian passport allows easy travel to many countries and offers consular protection abroad.
Enhanced Job Opportunities
Some jobs, especially those within the government or that require high-security clearance, are only available to Canadian citizens.
After becoming a Canadian citizen, You can apply for positions previously unavailable to you as a permanent resident. This opened up new career pathways and job opportunities.