There are certain things you need to keep in mind once you earn the permanent residence status in Canada.
1) Definition of “Permanent Resident”
First and foremost, being a permanent resident means you are a citizen from another country. Because you are a permanent resident, it implies that you have the right to live, study, and work anywhere in Canada. You are likewise entitled to many benefits that Canadian citizens enjoy such as in the aspect of health care. You may be protected by the Canadian law but you may not vote or run for a political position. However, you are expected to pay taxes and obey all laws in Canada whether it be federal, provincial, and municipal.
2) The Permanent Resident Card
A Permanent Resident card will be issued for you as the proof of your permanent residence. This card is valid for 5 years and so you have to renew it once it reaches expiration. You will need to present the card whenever you enter Canada by plane, boat, bus, or train.
In case you lose your card while you are outside Canadian territories, you may obtain a proof of status so you can go back to the country without any serious hassles.
3) Permanent Residency Requirements
Although a permanent resident has the right to live outside of Canada if you desire, you should be in the country for at least 2 years (or 730 days) during the 5-year residency period. Living outside the country for longer than the allowed timeframe can lead to losing the permanent resident status.
READ ALSO : APPLICATION PROCESS FOR CANADA’S MANITOBA PROVINCIAL NOMINEE PROGRAM (MPNP)
4) Exceptions to the 2-Year Rule
Fortunately, there are cases when a permanent resident may be allowed to stay outside Canada without putting his status in danger. For example, you may be permitted to accompany a Canadian citizen outside the country if that person is your spouse, common-law partner, or parent for a child under the age of 19.
5) Losing the Permanent Resident Status
Finally, losing the permanent resident status does not happen automatically even if, say, you fail to observe the above-mentioned 2-year rule. An official process should be undergone wherein an adjudicator and a visa officer will determine whether or not you are still permitted to be a permanent resident or not.
If you keep these things in mind, you wouldn’t have to worry about your status and you can continue availing of all the advantages that come with being a permanent resident in the Canada.