Canadian Citizenship vs Permanent Residency — Key Differences

Many newcomers wonder about the practical differences between permanent residency (PR) and citizenship. Both allow you to live and work in Canada, but citizenship comes with additional rights and protections.

Key Differences

• Voting: Only citizens can vote in federal and provincial elections.
• Passport: Only citizens can hold a Canadian passport.
• Deportation: Citizens cannot be deported. PRs can be removed for serious criminal offences or failing to meet residency obligations.
• Running for office: Only citizens can run for elected office.
• Security clearance: Some government jobs require citizenship.
• Residency obligation: PRs must be in Canada for 2 out of 5 years. Citizens have no such requirement.

What Stays the Same

Both PRs and citizens have access to healthcare, social services, can work anywhere in Canada, and are protected by the Charter of Rights and Freedoms.

Ready to take the next step? Read the complete PR to citizenship roadmap. Start preparing.