Canada and Australia are probably at the top of your list if you’re a competent professional seeking to relocate overseas in search of career advancement and a healthy lifestyle. Both nations are renowned for their strong economies, world-class healthcare systems, diverse cultures, and benefits for permanent residence (PR).

However, how can you choose between Australia’s General Skilled Migration (GSM) program and Canada’s Express Entry system?

To help you make an informed decision based on your age, educational credentials, professional work experience, and personal goals, we have outlined the two immigration processes side by side in this guide.

Canada Express Entry: What is it?

Canada Express Entry is an online immigration system that manages three federal economic immigration programs:

• FSWP – Federal Skilled Worker Program
• FSTP – Federal Skilled Trades Program
• CEC – Canadian Experience Class

After submitting a profile, applicants are assigned a score based on the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS). Regular draws are held to invite top scorers to apply for permanent residence (PR).

👉 Learn more about Express Entry here

What is the Skilled Migration Program in Australia?

Australia’s General Skilled Migration (GSM) program is categorically divided into visa subclasses:

• Subclass 189 – Skilled Independent Visa
• Subclass 190 – State Nominated Visa
• Subclass 491 – Skilled Work Regional Visa

Applicants must submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) through the SkillSelect system and score at least 65 points based on factors such as age, academic qualifications, professional experience, English language proficiency, and skills.

👉 Learn more about Skilled Migration here

Crucial Comparison: Skilled Migration in Australia vs Canada

• Minimum Points Required: Canada: CRS varies, often 470+; Australia: Minimum of 65 points
• Processing Time (TAT): Australia: 6–10 months after invitation; Canada: 6–12 months
• Job Offer: Australia: Not necessary, but helpful for 190 & 491; Canada: Not necessary, but adds CRS points
• PR Route: Both countries offer direct or potential PR pathways
• English Language Tests: Canada: IELTS/CELPIP (CLB 7+); Australia: IELTS/PTE (minimum 6 per band)
• Application Fees (per adult): Australia: ~AUD $4,910 (spouse half of applicant fee); Canada: ~CAD $1,525
• Family Inclusion & Benefits: Both countries allow family inclusion and provide access to healthcare, education, and career opportunities.

Advantages of Skilled Migration to Australia

• State or regional sponsorships can boost scores.
• Subclass 491 visa offers a five-year regional work visa with a pathway to PR.
• Processing can be expedited with the Priority Migration Skilled Occupation List (PMSOL).

👉 Check Australia’s Skilled Occupation List

Advantages of Canada Express Entry

• If your CRS score is 470+, you may receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) within weeks.
• Canada offers provincial and occupation-targeted draws.
• Unlike Australia, a state nomination is not required (unless you apply through PNP).
• Fluency in French earns bonus CRS points.
• Eligible for Canadian citizenship after 3 out of 5 years of residency.

👉 Learn more about Express Entry here

Which Is Better for You?

• Choose Canada Express Entry if: Your CRS score is high (470+), you are fluent in both English & French, and you prefer a direct PR pathway.
• Choose Australia Skilled Migration if: You are open to regional opportunities and your occupation is in high demand.

Why Choose AINiT?

At AINiT, we provide:

• Accurate profile evaluations
• Application and profile creation
• Guidance on crucial documentation
• Step-by-step assistance for both Canada & Australia visa processes

Start with a Free Evaluation

Don’t leave your future to chance—let AINiT evaluate your profile and guide you toward the best migration option.

📌 Book a free consultation now
📧 Email: info@ainit.net
📞 Phone: +92 21 35883852