Australia PR vs Canada PR: Which Is Better for Pakistanis?

Australia remains one of the world's top immigration destinations, offering multiple pathways to permanent residence for skilled workers, students, and families. Here's how to find the right pathway for you.

Australia's Points Test

Australia uses a points-based system. The minimum is 65 points but invitations typically go to applicants with 80–95+ points.

Points breakdown:

**Age**: Maximum 30 points (25–32 years = 30 points)

**English**: Maximum 20 points (Superior = 20, Proficient = 10)

**Work experience**: 5–20 points depending on years

**Education**: 10–20 points depending on level

**Australian qualifications**: 5–20 bonus points

**State nomination**: 5 points

The Main PR Pathways

1. Subclass 189 — Skilled Independent

No state sponsorship needed. Submit Expression of Interest (EOI) in SkillSelect, receive invitation based on points score, submit application within 60 days.

Best for: High scorers (85+ points) in high-demand occupations.

2. Subclass 190 — Skilled Nominated

Nominated by an Australian state/territory. Adds 5 points to your score. States have their own requirements and targeted occupation lists.

Best for: Applicants with 70–80 points who can't get an invite for Subclass 189.

3. Subclass 491 — Skilled Work Regional

State or family sponsored, requires living in regional Australia for 3 years before PR. Adds 15 points to your score, making it accessible for those with 65–70 points.

Best for: Those willing to live in regional Australia for a period.

4. Subclass 186 — Employer Nomination Scheme

Requires 2–3 years of working for an Australian employer who nominates you. The most direct path if you're already employed in Australia.

Best for: Those already on Subclass 482 (TSS) work visa in Australia.

Critical First Steps

**Get your occupation assessed** by the relevant assessing authority (Engineers Australia, VETASSESS, ACS, etc.)

**Take IELTS** and aim for Band 7+ (Proficient English = 10 points, Superior = 20 points)

**Calculate your points** honestly using DIBP's online tool

**Create your EOI** in SkillSelect and submit

Beyond Blue's Australia immigration team can assess your eligibility and recommend the optimal pathway for your profile.