Though an Australian citizen and an Australian resident sound quite similar in the land down under, there is quite a difference between Australian citizen and resident, aside from the assigned terms. Australia is a multicultural, inclusive nation that has seen an influx of people in recent years from various countries across the world. Those who have come to reside in Australia, not only want to permanently reside there, but also want to be a true Australian by becoming the Australian citizen. So before applying to become an Australian citizen, better know the difference between an Australian citizen and a resident, in terms of responsibilities, rights and privileges, which are highlighted in this piece of article.
Who is an Australian Citizen?
An Australian citizen has all the perks and obligations that a citizen of a country is entitled to. He or she has the right to own an Australian passport and if they are to travel abroad, he or she is entitled to get help from an assigned Australian consul in a given foreign country. An Australian citizen is also immune to deportation. Furthermore, an Australian citizen can leave and go back to Australia without any hassle from the immigration.
Who is an Australian Resident?
A resident or permanent resident is given the responsibility to maintain their resident status by not being out of Australia for long periods of time. Three years out of five years is okay, but a period longer than that is not regarded as acceptable. A resident is not also immune to deportation and cannot vote in elections. An upside to being a resident is that they are entitled to medical insurance, and they are capable of purchasing property.
What is the difference between Australian Citizen and Resident?
As specified in the description, an Australian citizen and resident are not the same. While an Australian citizen can get in and out of the country without any restrictions from the immigration, a resident cannot stay out of Australia longer than three years. An Australian citizen has the right to vote, a resident does not. An Australian citizen cannot be deported unless proven to have acquired his citizenship in a fraudulent manner, a resident can be deported. So, in Australia, there is a considerable difference between being a citizen of the country and being a mere resident. From rights to perks to just being able to call oneself an Australian, there are quite a few things to know. One must truly be aware of these facts if they are to plan their future in Australia.
Summary:
Australian Citizen vs Resident
• An Australian citizen has the right to vote, a resident does not.
• An Australian citizen can get in and out of the country freely. A resident needs to obtain the Resident Return Visa if he or she wishes to travel in and out of Australia after his initial five-year permanent residency visa expires.
• A resident must not stay out of the country for more than three years. A special visa is applicable that allows stays up to five years.
• An Australian citizen has the privilege to seek election to parliament. A resident does not.
• An Australian citizen has the privilege of registering their children who are born overseas as Australian citizens by descent.
• Permanent residents do not have the privilege to apply for work in the public sector and the Australian Defence Force.
• An Australian citizen cannot be deported unless proven to have acquired his citizenship in a fraudulent manner, a resident can be deported.
Photos By: American Advisors Group (CC BY-SA 2.0), Ahmadmuj (CC BY-SA 3.0)