🇨🇦 Canada vs 🇦🇺 Australia
Compare work visa requirements, eligibility criteria, processing times, and costs between Canada and Australia for skilled workers.
| Criteria | 🇨🇦 Canada | 🇦🇺 Australia |
|---|---|---|
| Processing time (PR) | 6–12 months (Express Entry) | 6–9 months (SkillSelect 189) |
| Pathway to PR | Express Entry, PNP, CEC, FSTP | SkillSelect 189, 190, 491 |
| Points required | CRS score (minimum 481 recent draws) | 65 points (invites at 85+) |
| Employer sponsorship | PNP or LMIA — not always required | Not required for 189; required for 186 |
| Language test | IELTS General Training or CELPIP | IELTS General Training or OET |
| Skills assessment | ECA for foreign education (WES, IQAS) | Skills assessment by relevant authority (ACS, EA, etc.) |
| Job offer needed | Not required for Express Entry | Not required for 189; required for 190/491 |
| Occupation list | NOC 0, A, B (broadly eligible) | MLTSSL and STSOL (occupation-specific) |
| Annual immigration targets | ~485,000 PR (2024) | ~160,000 places (2023–24) |
| Path to citizenship | 3 years physical presence | 4 years (PR before citizenship) |
Summary: Canada has higher annual immigration targets and more flexible eligibility criteria. Australia has faster processing and a more structured points system. Both countries offer strong PR pathways for skilled professionals. Canada may be better for those without a job offer; Australia may be better for those with specific occupation lists coverage.