Important Definitions
In researching Immigration issues relating to living in Australia, you will come across many terms & definitions, the meanings of which are important but can be confusing. The following clarifications are of particular importance.
Residency
The word is used for both taxation and immigration purposes. Depending on the set of circumstances, the meaning can be different. For the purposes of information contained in this website ‘residency’ should be taken to mean residency for immigration purposes.
Holders of temporary resident visas often assume that they are also non-residents for tax purposes. This may or may not be the case depending on other circumstances, including the length of time worked in Australia. Advice needs to be sought on this issue from tax advisers who are specialists in international tax.
Temporary Resident
Means that the person has permission to remain in Australia for a defined period of time indicated on the approved visa. Most temporary visas provide multiple entry facilities.
Permanent Resident/Migrant
Both terms mean the same thing. They mean that the visa holder has permission to live and work in Australia indefinitely. A permanent resident visa holder does NOT automatically gain an Australian passport. This requires additional criteria to be met (see Citizenship section above).
