What does it mean to be a resident but not a citizen? Understanding the difference between a citizen and a permanent resident is crucial, as these two different legal statuses come with distinct rights and limitations. While a resident can legally live in a country, residency is restricted in several ways, and residents don’t have the right to hold a second passport. The concept of a resident citizen meaning also varies from country to country, highlighting the complexity of these legal terms. This article will explore the key differences between citizenship and residency and what each status entails.
The difference between residency and citizenship in terms of the concept
Residence is a document that allows you to stay in a country for a specified period, often for a certain number of years according to the host country’s laws. Regular renewal of this residence is required to maintain its validity. Residence permits often grant the right to enter the country anytime, purchase properties, obtain health insurance, and enroll your children in school.
Holders of residence permits do not have political rights in the country, such as the right to vote. There are two types of residence permits:
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The first type is temporary residence
This type grants an individual the right to reside in the country for a limited period, with the possibility of renewal according to the policies and regulations of the state.
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The second type of residency is permanent residency
This type grants the right to permanent residence in a specific country. The duration of permanent residence varies from one country to another, and in some countries, permanent residence can lead to acquiring citizenship.
As for the concept of citizenship, it is a legal status through which a state grants individual citizenship rights. Citizens, by virtue of their citizenship, enjoy all the rights, privileges, and responsibilities defined by the laws of that country.
These rights include the right to vote, participate in politics, access education, and healthcare. Citizens can also inherit citizenship to their children, and citizenship is usually for life.
The difference between residence and citizenship in terms of benefits
Residence and citizenship are two distinct terms, each referring to different rights and responsibilities. As such, they differ in terms of benefits as follows:
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Benefits of Residence
• Residing in a specific country for a specified or permanent period, depending on the country’s regulations.
• Obtaining certain rights, such as access to healthcare and education.
• Possibility of entering Schengen countries if the residence is European.
• Ability to engage in business activities and ownership under certain conditions.
• Possibility of including family members under specific conditions. -
Benefits of Citizenship
• The right to stay permanently in the country.
• Full enjoyment of all civil and political rights.
• Full protection and diplomatic support from the state.
• A passport granting the holder the right to travel to many countries.
If you are interested in obtaining citizenship and passport of the Caribbean countries, Turkey, or Egypt, or would like to obtain residency in Canada, the UK, the USA, Portugal, Spain, Cyprus, Greece, Hungary through investment, contact us to book a free consultation by clicking on the link here.
