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Canada has recently implemented stricter immigration policies, making it more challenging for getting student visa for international students to secure a study permit and subsequently obtain permanent residency. 

These changes include closure of SDS program, increased application fees, stringent eligibility criteria, and longer processing times. 

These factors have significantly impacted the overall immigration landscape in Canada, making it a less attractive destination for many international students and skilled workers.

When it comes to choosing a destination for higher education, two countries frequently emerge as top contenders: Canada and Australia. 

Both nations offer world-class education, vibrant multicultural environments, and promising opportunities for international students. 

However, if you’re weighing the advantages of studying in Australia against Canada, it’s essential to dive deeper into key factors such as visa policies, post-graduation prospects, affordability, and quality of life. 

Australia has been gaining traction among students for its straightforward visa application processes, shorter pathways to permanent residency (PR), and strong focus on supporting international students during their academic journey.

While Canada has traditionally been a favorite due to its welcoming immigration policies and access to a robust job market, Australia is carving a niche for itself by addressing the unique needs of students, including offering better weather, faster PR processing in certain cases, and flexible work-study arrangements. 

This discussion explores why Australia may be the better choice for student visas, how it caters to international students, and what sets it apart from Canada in key areas like education quality, career prospects, and ease of settling. 

If you’re torn between these two global leaders, this analysis aims to give you clarity on which destination aligns best with your academic and career aspirations.

Cost of Living Comparison

If you’re considering studying in Australia or Canada, understanding the cost of living is crucial in making an informed decision. 

Both countries are known for their high standards of living, but there are significant differences in expenses that you need to weigh carefully.

Australia 

• Accommodation Costs – Housing in Australia tends to be more expensive in major cities like Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane. Rent for a single-bedroom apartment in the city center can range between AUD 1,800 to AUD 2,500 per month. Suburban areas are more affordable but may require longer commutes.

• Food and Groceries – Groceries and dining out in Australia are generally costlier due to high labor wages and import taxes. Expect to spend AUD 100–150 per week on groceries and AUD 15–25 for an average meal.

• Transportation – Public transportation is reliable but slightly more expensive compared to Canada. Monthly transportation passes can cost AUD 120–200, depending on the city.

• Healthcare Costs – Australia’s Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) is mandatory for international students and costs around AUD 400–600 per year. While this covers essential services, out-of-pocket costs for specialists or medications can be higher.

• Miscellaneous Expenses – Utilities, entertainment, and internet costs are generally higher in Australia. Internet plans, for example, may cost AUD 70–100 per month.

Canada

• Accommodation Costs – Housing in Canada is relatively more affordable, especially outside cities like Toronto and Vancouver. A single-bedroom apartment in the city center costs CAD 1,500–2,000 per month, with suburban options being significantly cheaper.

• Food and Groceries – Groceries in Canada are more reasonably priced, with weekly costs averaging CAD 80–120. Dining out is slightly cheaper than in Australia, with meals costing CAD 10–20.

• Transportation – Public transport is not only efficient but also more affordable. Monthly passes typically range between CAD 80–120.

• Healthcare Costs – Canada provides free public healthcare to permanent residents and some provinces extend this benefit to international students. This can substantially reduce your expenses compared to Australia.

• Miscellaneous Expenses – Utilities, entertainment, and internet costs in Canada are moderately priced, with internet plans averaging CAD 50–80 per month.

Canada is generally more affordable for international students, especially in terms of housing and healthcare. 

However, the higher minimum wage in Australia often offsets the elevated living costs, making it easier to manage expenses while studying.

Job Market and Post-Study Work Rights

One of your primary concerns as an international student is likely the ability to work during and after your studies. 

Both Australia and Canada provide excellent opportunities, but the specifics of their job markets and work rights differ.

Australia

• Work While Studying – As an international student in Australia, you are allowed to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during the academic term and unlimited hours during breaks. Jobs in hospitality, retail, and tourism are abundant but competitive.

• Post-Study Work Rights – Australia offers a Temporary Graduate Visa (subclass 485), allowing you to stay and work after graduation for 2–4 years, depending on your degree. For example, STEM graduates often receive longer work rights.

• Industry Opportunities – The Australian job market is strong in sectors like healthcare, education, IT, engineering, and mining. However, competition can be stiff, particularly for roles requiring advanced skills or certifications.

Canada

• Work While Studying – Canada permits international students to work up to 20 hours per week during the academic term and full-time during scheduled breaks. Part-time opportunities are readily available in retail, food services, and customer support.

• Post-Study Work Rights – The Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) allows you to work in Canada for up to three years after completing your studies. This pathway is particularly beneficial for transitioning to permanent residency.

• Industry Opportunities – Canada’s job market is diverse, with significant demand in healthcare, technology, skilled trades, and finance. The country also offers co-op programs that integrate work experience into your studies.

While both countries offer strong post-study work rights, Canada’s PGWP and larger job market make it a more favorable option for long-term career opportunities.

Immigration Policies and Permanent Residency

The ability to transition from a student visa to permanent residency (PR) is a critical consideration for many international students. 

While Canada and Australia have structured pathways, but they vary in complexity and accessibility.

Australia

• Pathways to PR – Australia uses a points-based immigration system. You’ll need to meet specific criteria, such as being in a high-demand occupation, achieving a certain points score, and possibly receiving a state nomination.

• Skilled Occupation Lists – PR eligibility often depends on whether your occupation appears on the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL) or Short-term Skilled Occupation List (STSOL).

• Regional Opportunities – Studying or working in regional areas increases your chances of PR due to additional points and regional sponsorship programs.

Canada

• Pathways to PR – Canada offers numerous immigration pathways, such as Express Entry, Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs), and specific programs for international graduates.

• Work Experience – The Canadian system values Canadian work experience, which significantly boosts your chances of receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for PR.

• Ease of Application – Canada’s immigration policies are widely regarded as more transparent and accessible, particularly for students transitioning to PR.

Canada’s PR pathways are simpler and more inclusive, particularly for students. Australia’s PR process can be faster but is often more restrictive and reliant on specific occupations.

Quality of Education and Lifestyle

The quality of education and overall lifestyle play a significant role in your study abroad decision. Both countries rank highly in these areas, but they offer different experiences.

Australia

• Education Quality – Australia is home to some of the world’s top universities, including the University of Melbourne, Australian National University, and the University of Sydney. The focus on research and innovation is strong, especially in STEM fields.

• Lifestyle – Australia offers a vibrant, outdoor-oriented lifestyle with excellent weather, beautiful beaches, and world-class recreational activities. Cities like Melbourne and Sydney are culturally rich, while regional areas provide a slower pace of life.

• Cultural Diversity – Australia is a melting pot of cultures, ensuring you’ll feel welcome regardless of your background.

Canada

• Education Quality – Canadian institutions like the University of Toronto, McGill University, and the University of British Columbia are globally recognized. Canada emphasizes practical, career-focused education, making it easier for students to transition into the workforce.

• Lifestyle – Canada offers a high standard of living, with natural beauty ranging from mountain ranges to serene lakes. Winters can be harsh, but the country compensates with excellent urban infrastructure and public services.

• Cultural Diversity – Canada is one of the most multicultural countries in the world, fostering inclusivity and respect for all cultures.

Australia wins for lifestyle and weather, while Canada offers a better blend of education quality and cultural inclusivity.

Both countries have their strengths and challenges, and the right choice for you depends on your priorities: whether it’s cost, career opportunities, PR, or lifestyle.

Conclusion

Deciding between Canada and Australia for a student visa ultimately depends on your personal goals and preferences, but Australia stands out in several critical aspects. 

From its efficient student visa system to its strong emphasis on ensuring students gain valuable work experience, Australia offers a compelling package for those seeking quality education and a seamless transition into the workforce. 

Its relatively faster pathways to PR and proactive measures to support international students make it an attractive destination for those who prioritize long-term settlement.

While Canada remains a formidable competitor with its own strengths, such as a larger labor market and broader immigration pathways, Australia offers a unique combination of advantages that cater specifically to the modern international student. 

Whether you value a globally recognized education, excellent career opportunities, or the chance to settle in a vibrant, multicultural society, Australia’s approach to education and immigration ensures it remains a top contender. 

For students seeking a blend of academic excellence, career growth, and lifestyle balance, Australia might just have the edge over Canada.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Which is better for a student visa, Canada or Australia?

Australia offers faster processing times and more straightforward student visa requirements, making it slightly better for students prioritizing ease of access. However, Canada’s post-graduation work permit (PGWP) and immigration pathways are more extensive, appealing to those with long-term settlement goals.

2. Is it better to settle in Canada or Australia?

Canada is often better for long-term settlement due to its accessible PR pathways and larger job market. Australia, however, provides quicker PR options for some and a higher standard of living in certain areas, making it an excellent choice for those who prioritize lifestyle.

3. Which country gives PR easily, Canada or Australia?

Canada has more accessible PR pathways through programs like Express Entry and provincial nominations. Australia’s PR process can be faster but often requires meeting specific criteria, such as skilled occupation lists and higher points thresholds.

4. Is Australia more developed than Canada?

Both countries are highly developed, but Australia has a slight edge in terms of quality of life, healthcare efficiency, and urban infrastructure. Canada excels in global influence, economic stability, and technological innovation.

5. Is Australian passport better than Canada?

Both passports are among the most powerful globally, offering extensive visa-free travel. The Australian passport is slightly stronger in terms of travel freedom to certain regions, but both rank highly in global passport indices.

6. Which country is best for earning money, Canada or Australia?

Australia generally offers higher wages and a better cost-to-income ratio, particularly in fields like healthcare, engineering, and IT. Canada, however, provides more job opportunities across a wider range of industries, making it competitive for overall earnings.