Which Country Should Students Choose for Immigration? Canada vs. Australia

If you're considering studying abroad with the aim of eventually making a new country your home, both Canada and Australia are likely on your radar. Both nations offer a wealth of opportunities for international students, including access to world-class education and pathways to permanent residency (PR) after graduation. But how do they compare in terms of study visas, immigration options, and long-term prospects for settling down?

As of 2024, both countries have made significant updates to their immigration systems, and it's important to weigh these changes when deciding between the two. Here’s an overview of how Canada immigration and Australia immigration stack up for international students, along with the most notable differences between the two.

Study Permits and Work Rights

Both countries offer study permits that allow international students to work while studying but with some important differences.

In Canada, international students on a study permit can work unlimited hours on campus and up to 24 hours per week off-campus during regular classes. During scheduled breaks, students can work full-time. 

Canada also offers the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), which allows graduates to stay and work for up to three years in Canada—depending on the length of their program.

In contrast, Australia allows international students to work 48 hours every two weeks during term time and unlimited hours during breaks.

The Temporary Graduate Visa (subclass 485) lets students work in Australia for 2 to 3 years after graduation, though eligibility can be restricted based on the type of qualification and whether the course aligns with skills in demand.

Tuition Fees and Cost of Living

While the cost of education varies by program and location, both countries are similar in terms of overall tuition fees. 

In Canada, international undergraduate students can expect to pay between 29,000 CAD and 81,000 CAD annually, depending on the program and institution. In Australia, tuition fees range from 26,500 AUD to 113,000 AUD (approximately 24,500 CAD to 104,500 CAD) for undergraduate programs.

The cost of living also plays a role in the decision-making process. Cities like Toronto and Vancouver in Canada or Sydney and Melbourne in Australia are known for their high cost of living, but both countries offer opportunities for international students to work part-time to help offset these costs.

Top Universities and Global Ranking

When it comes to academic reputation, both Canada and Australia are home to globally ranked universities. 

In the QS World University Rankings 2025, Canada boasts institutions like the University of Toronto (25th), McGill University (29th), and the University of British Columbia (38th). Australia also shines, with institutions like the University of Melbourne (13th), University of Sydney (18th), and Australian National University (30th) among the top 100.

Both countries are attractive options for international students seeking access to high-quality education and robust academic networks.

Key Immigration Differences

Though both countries are welcoming to international students, the way they manage immigration differs in several ways:

• Canada has a more flexible approach to PR, with programs like the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) that allow students to apply for PR based on regional labor market needs.
• Australia has a more occupation-specific approach, with PR pathways tied to the Skilled Occupation List (SOL), meaning that your chosen field of study could directly impact your PR eligibility.

Conclusion: Which Country Is the Best for You?

Choosing between Canada and Australia for your studies and immigration journey depends on your personal goals, field of study, and career aspirations.

• If you’re looking for flexibility and a wide range of immigration pathways, especially for students in various occupations, Canada immigration may be the better option. With its Canadian Experience Class, Provincial Nominee Programs, and Post-Graduation Work Permits, Canada offers a broad set of tools to help students transition into permanent residency after their studies.
• On the other hand, if you have a specific occupation in mind that’s in demand in Australia, Australia immigration offers solid opportunities through its Skilled Independent Visa and Temporary Graduate Visa. Australia’s high-ranking universities and relaxed language requirements can also make it an appealing option for many international students.

Both countries offer excellent study abroad opportunities, vibrant multicultural communities, and pathways to permanent residency after graduation. Whether you choose Canada PR or Australia PR, you’ll be embarking on an exciting journey that offers not only quality education but also the possibility of a bright future in a new country.

In the end, both Canada immigration and Australia immigration present strong opportunities for international students. Canada may offer more flexibility and variety when it comes to PR options, making it an ideal destination for students looking to explore a range of career paths. Australia, on the other hand, provides a more direct, occupation-focused route to permanent residency for students in specific high-demand fields, which can be especially appealing for those with skills that are in short supply.

Ultimately, the best choice depends on your personal preferences, career goals, and the type of immigration pathway that aligns with your aspirations. Whether you choose to study in Canada or Australia, both countries offer rich educational experiences, vibrant multicultural communities, and the possibility of building a fulfilling future abroad.