Maple News reports that while Canadian permanent residents (PRs) enjoy many rights and freedoms similar to Canadian citizens — such as living, working, studying, and investing in Canada — there are fundamental legal and civic differences worth noting for anyone considering a long-term future in the country.
A permanent resident is a foreign national who has been granted PR status through immigration but has not yet achieved full Canadian citizenship. In contrast, citizens hold the highest form of legal status in the country, entitling them to additional rights, such as voting in elections and obtaining a Canadian passport.
One of the most notable differences lies in democratic participation. Only Canadian citizens can vote in federal, provincial, or local elections and run for public office, giving them a voice in shaping governmental policies and leadership.
Employment opportunities also vary. While permanent residents can work in most sectors without needing a separate work permit, access to high-security jobs, such as certain government or defense-related positions, is restricted to citizens due to security clearance requirements.
Permanent residency comes with physical residency obligations. To maintain PR status, individuals must be physically present in Canada for at least 730 days within every five-year period. These days do not have to be consecutive, but falling short of this residency requirement can jeopardize their status. Citizens, by contrast, have no such residency conditions.
Travel privileges also differ substantially. Permanent residents can travel using their valid PR card, and some countries offer visa-free access for short stays. However, Canadian citizens benefit significantly more in this area. As of 2024, holders of a Canadian passport — one of the most powerful globally — can travel to 187 destinations visa-free, providing broader global mobility and consular protection. Moreover, citizens can hold dual citizenship and often access international work and study opportunities more easily.
In summary, permanent residency offers most of the practical advantages of living in Canada; however, citizenship provides enhanced security, political participation, global mobility, and job access. For many PRs, transitioning to citizenship marks a significant step toward fully integrating into Canadian society.
Understanding these distinctions can help newcomers plan their long-term goals more effectively and decide if and when to pursue Canadian citizenship.