There are lots of benefits that come with being a citizen in Australia, but do the same benefits extend to those with just a resident permit in Australia? And what are the differences between an Australian resident permit and citizenship what are the advantages you could enjoy as a resident and as a citizen?
Here are some of the main differences between a resident permit in Australia and citizenship. We have discussed some of the differences in this article. Residency in Australia is definitely a preferred way to live and work in the country. Those who want to stay for a certain period of time can apply for an Australian resident permit that allows them to stay, work and travel freely throughout the country.
It also gives you access to quality education and employment opportunities. However, it is important to note that having an Australian resident permit does not give you all the privileges of being a citizen. To be a citizen, one must go through the naturalization process. This involves applying for citizenship and waiting for a couple of years to be granted citizenship.
If you are interested in becoming a citizen, it is better if you are aware of the benefits and disadvantages of being a citizen before applying for one. Citizenship gives you more opportunities and privileges than a resident permit. Residency does not guarantee job security, for instance. Working in Australia is only possible if one has an Australian work visa or employer sponsorship.
Whare the Differences Between Australian Resident Permit and Citizenship?
- A resident permit allows you to work in Australia, but it does not guarantee a job
Working in Australia is only possible if one has an Australian work visa or employer sponsorship. However, while the Australian resident permit allows you to work in the country, it does not guarantee that you will have a job. In most cases, employers are required to prove that they cannot find suitable employees before hiring someone with a resident permit. This is unlike citizenship where you are guaranteed a job once you become a citizen in Australia.
- A resident permit restricts your ability to travel outside of Australia
A lot of people who have an Australian resident permit find it frustrating that they are not allowed to leave and come back as they please, especially if they have a temporary resident permit. Those with a resident permit cannot leave the country for more than 12 months. This is unlike citizenship, as Australian citizens are allowed to travel freely throughout the world and come back to Australia at any time.
- A citizen can vote in an election while a resident cannot vote
One of the main advantages of being a citizen is that you can vote in Australian elections. This is because only citizens are allowed to vote and be elected into public office positions. While it is possible for an applicant to apply for citizenship within six months of receiving a residence permit, one cannot participate in voting or any other aspect of the election process until they have become a citizen.
- A citizen has more protection than a resident permit holder
Unlike those with residency permits, citizens are protected under various state and federal laws. For example, those with a resident permit are not protected by the Fair Work Act, which protects employees and employers from unfair dismissal.
- A citizen is eligible to obtain an Australian passport while a resident cannot
Those who have citizenship in Australia can get passports that enable them to travel throughout the world without any restrictions. On the other hand, people with resident permits are not allowed to hold another country’s passport at all times. They will be deported if they try getting one especially if it is through illegal means.
How Can I Apply for an Australian Residence Permit?
Australian residence permits are issued by the Department of Immigration and Border Protection, which is a division of the Australian Home Affairs portfolio. To apply for a resident permit in Australia, you must first get your visa application approved.
You can do this at any time before or after receiving your visa. Before applying for an Australian resident permit, it is essential that you look into various aspects like how long it takes to process applications, how much will it cost you, and what are the requirements. Most Australian resident permits can be applied for online, but it is important that you read all the instructions carefully before applying.
The most common types of residence permits that are issued in Australia include working holiday visas; permanent skill-shortage visas; employer-nominated visas; student visas; temporary work (work) visas.
How Do you Become a Citizen in Australia?
Becoming a citizen in Australia is not as easy as getting a resident permit. In fact, it can take several years before you become a naturalized Australian citizen. The first step to becoming an Australian Citizen is to get your permanent visa approved and arrive in the country. There are two types of permanent visas that you can be granted: general skilled migration category visas and employer nominated (subclass 186) visas.
Following that, you will need to meet certain requirements set by the government such as having a valid means of identification, good health, and basic knowledge of the English language. After that, you will be invited to attend an interview where you will be asked about your background, why you want to become an Australian citizen, and what contribution can you make to the country.
You must then wait for six months before being granted citizenship. During this time, there are several things that you need to do such as: take part in formal ceremonies; pledge allegiance on becoming a member of the Commonwealth; pay fees; and provide all the documents that you were asked to provide during your interview.
How Can I Make an Application for Australian Citizenship?
You can apply for Australian citizenship online or at any service center of the Department of Immigration and Border Protection in Australia. It is important that you read all instructions carefully before applying since not all applications are accepted right away.
If you are applying online, make sure to have the following: a completed application form; valid passport/travel document; recent color photograph (no older than six weeks); and any other documents that are requested by the Department.
How Expensive is it to Apply for an Australian Resident Permit?
The cost of applying for a resident permit in Australia can vary depending on the type of visa that you plan to apply for. For example, if you will be applying as a student, your application fee should not exceed $715. However, if you will be applying as a skilled worker, it could cost up to $1,540.