In recent years, Canada and Australia have emerged as two of the most popular destinations for skilled immigrants seeking better career opportunities and a higher quality of life. Both countries have implemented point-based immigration systems, which prioritise candidates with the skills, education, and work experience required to contribute to their economies.
Canada’s Skilled Immigration Program
The Canadian Express Entry was brought into practice in the year 2015. It provides immigration of skilled workers on a fast track basis. Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada runs this program. The motive of this program is that it attracts less-compliant and high-skilled workers who can provide a yield for the development of the country.
Australia’s Skilled Immigration Program
Australia’s skilled immigration program, known as SkillSelect, is managed by the Department of Home Affairs. The program is designed to attract highly skilled workers who can contribute to Australia’s economy and fill labour gaps.
Comparison of Canada and Australia’s Skilled Immigration Programs
Though both countries, Canada and Australia, share the concept of point-based immigration, there are fundamental differences between the two programs. These conditions are as follows:
Age- While in Canada under the Express Entry program, the maximum age is 47 years, that in Australia under the SkillSelect program is 45 years of age.
Language Proficiency- In Canada, one can have either English or French, whereas, in Australia, the requirement is English alone.
Work Experience: It requires at least 1 year of Skilled Work experience for Canada, and a minimum of 2 years for Australia.
Occupation Lists: The list in the case of Canada is exhaustive with over more than 300 occupations present in the eligible list whereas when it comes to Australia, the lists of MLTSSL and STSOL are limited.
Skilled immigration programs offer skilled immigrant workers great opportunities to migrate to Canada as well as Australia. Even though both of these programs share some general points and grounds, they definitely observed regular differences in the eligibility criteria and even in the process of their selection. So, knowing these differences will bestow an opportunity on the candidates for deciding the most appropriate program, which suits their skills, along with their educational qualifications, and experience in the sectors pertaining to jobs.
