Australia vs. Canada: Which is Better for PR?

Australia vs. Canada: Which is Better for PR?

Both Australia and Canada offer pathways to Permanent Residency (PR) for international students and skilled workers. However, their immigration systems, eligibility requirements, and ease of obtaining PR differ significantly. Below is a detailed comparison based on various factors.

1. PR Eligibility & Pathways

Australia and Canada both use a points-based PR system. In Australia, students typically follow the Graduate Work Visa (Subclass 485) before applying for PR through the General Skilled Migration (GSM) program, which includes visas such as Skilled Independent (189), Skilled Nominated (190), and Regional (491). Employer-sponsored visas are also available.

In Canada, the most common PR pathway is through the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), which allows students to gain work experience and later apply for PR via the Express Entry system. The key programs under Express Entry include the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP), Canadian Experience Class (CEC), and Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP). Additionally, the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) offers alternative PR routes.

Overall, Canada’s PR system is more student-friendly, as the transition from PGWP to Express Entry is relatively smooth. In contrast, Australia’s PR system is more competitive, requiring a minimum of 65 points for eligibility, with many applicants needing higher scores.

2. PR-Friendly Jobs & Occupations

Both countries offer PR pathways for high-demand occupations, but the lists vary.

In Australia, PR-friendly professions include software engineering, nursing, aged care, civil engineering, accounting, teaching, and skilled trades such as electricians and plumbers. These are included in the Medium and Long-Term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL), which determines PR eligibility.

Canada’s in-demand occupations also include IT professionals, healthcare workers, engineers, accountants, teachers, and skilled trades such as welders and truck drivers. Unlike Australia, Canada has more opportunities for blue-collar workers due to labor shortages.

Both countries offer PR pathways for business and management professionals, but these are often more competitive compared to technical and healthcare fields.

3. Cost of Education & PR Process

Education and living costs in Australia are generally higher than in Canada. Tuition fees for international students in Australia range between AUD 25,000 to AUD 45,000 per year, while in Canada, they range from CAD 15,000 to CAD 35,000 per year.

Living costs in Australia are also higher, with the student visa requirement mandating proof of at least AUD 21,041 per year. In Canada, the minimum required amount is CAD 10,000 per year, making it a more affordable destination.

The PR application fee in Australia for the Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189) is approximately AUD 4,640, whereas the Express Entry PR application fee in Canada is CAD 1,365.

Additionally, finding a job after graduation is generally easier in Canada due to the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), which allows international students to work freely for up to three years. In Australia, students need to secure a job that aligns with a PR-eligible occupation, which can be more challenging.

4. PR Processing Time & Approval Rates

Australia’s PR processing time varies based on the visa subclass and can take anywhere from six months to two years. Skilled migration visas (189, 190, 491) require high points, and competition is increasing.

In Canada, Express Entry applications are processed faster, typically within six months to one year. The PR approval rate is also generally higher due to Canada’s strong demand for skilled workers.

Regional migration programs exist in both countries, such as Australia’s Subclass 491 (Regional Skilled Visa) and Canada’s Provincial Nominee Program (PNP), which offer additional PR opportunities in less populated areas.

Overall, Canada’s PR process is faster and has a higher approval rate compared to Australia’s more competitive system.

5. Climate & Lifestyle

Australia has a warm climate, with many cities offering year-round mild weather. In contrast, Canada experiences extreme cold, with winter temperatures dropping to as low as -30°C in some areas.

Job opportunities in Australia are concentrated in major cities such as Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane. Canada, on the other hand, has strong job markets in mid-sized cities such as Toronto, Vancouver, and Calgary.

Both countries offer public healthcare systems for PR holders, with Canada having universal healthcare and Australia providing Medicare.

In terms of crime and safety, both countries are generally safe, though Australia has a higher cost of living compared to Canada.

Final Verdict: Which Country is Better for PR?

For international students, Canada offers a smoother PR process due to the Post-Graduation Work Permit and Express Entry system. The transition from student to PR is easier, and the overall costs are lower.

For skilled workers, Canada’s Express Entry and Provincial Nominee Program provide a faster PR pathway compared to Australia’s more competitive points-based system.

Australia may be a better choice for those with highly skilled occupations that are in demand, particularly in engineering, IT, and healthcare. It also offers a better climate and higher salaries. However, the PR process is more challenging, and education and living costs are higher.

If you prefer an easier PR pathway, lower costs, and more regional PR opportunities, Canada is the better choice. If you have a high-demand profession and prefer a warmer climate with higher salaries, Australia may be more suitable.