Residence vs Immigration Status
Summary
Residence and immigration status are related but distinct legal concepts. Residence refers to where a person lives, while immigration status refers to legal permission to enter or stay in a country.
Main explanation
What is residence
- based on factual living arrangements
- may change over time
- used in tax and administrative systems
What is immigration status
- legal authorisation to stay
- granted via permits or visas
- defines working rights
Relationship
- residence = factual
- immigration status = legal permission
- one does not replace the other
Use in systems
- Employment work depends on immigration status
- Taxation depends on residence
- Administration may depend on both
Differences across countries
- permit systems
- work authorisation rules
- residence registration
What this page does not cover
- visa categories
- application processes
- rights per status
- asylum law
- legal advice
References