Points-based immigration systems are designed to evaluate applicants based on specific criteria like skills, education, work experience, and language proficiency. They aim to attract individuals who can contribute to a country’s economy and meet labor market demands. Australia, the UK, and Canada are three prominent countries using points-based systems. Let’s explore how these systems work and what makes each unique.
Australia’s Points-Based Immigration System
Australia’s system is one of the most structured, favoring skilled workers who meet labor market needs.
How It Works
Applicants must score at least 65 points to qualify under the General Skilled Migration (GSM) program. Points are awarded based on:
- Age: Maximum points for applicants aged 25–32.
- English Proficiency: Points for achieving superior scores in English tests like IELTS or PTE.
- Work Experience: Both Australian and overseas experience are considered.
- Education: Points for degrees, diplomas, or trade qualifications.
- State/Territory Nomination: Additional points for receiving state sponsorship.
Key Visa Types
- Skilled Independent Visa (subclass 189): No sponsorship required.
- Skilled Nominated Visa (subclass 190): Requires state/territory nomination.
- Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa (subclass 491): For regional areas with nomination.
Benefits of the Australian System
- Transparent and merit-based.
- Encourages migration to regional areas for balanced growth.
- High demand for occupations in IT, healthcare, and engineering.
Know more about all Australian visas: Click Here
UK’s Points-Based Immigration System
The UK adopted a new points-based immigration system in January 2021 after Brexit, focusing on skilled workers from across the globe.
How It Works
Applicants must earn 70 points, which are awarded based on mandatory and tradeable criteria:
Mandatory Criteria (50 points):
- Job offer from a UK-approved sponsor.
- Job at the required skill level (RQF Level 3 or above).
- English language proficiency.
Tradeable Points (20 points):
- Salary: Higher salaries earn more points.
- Shortage Occupations: Additional points for jobs in high demand.
- Academic Qualifications: Points for a Ph.D. in certain fields.
Key Visa Types
- Skilled Worker Visa: For individuals with a job offer meeting the criteria.
- Global Talent Visa: For highly skilled individuals in academia, arts, or technology.
- Health and Care Worker Visa: For professionals in the healthcare sector.
Benefits of the UK System
- Open to non-EU citizens with a focus on global talent.
- Addresses sector-specific shortages (e.g., healthcare, IT).
- Streamlined pathways for high-demand occupations.
Know more about all UK visas: Click Here
Canada’s Points-Based Immigration System
Canada’s system is primarily driven by its Express Entry program, which targets skilled workers to fill labor shortages.
How It Works
Applicants are evaluated through the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS), which scores out of 1,200 points.
Core Factors (600 points):
- Age: Maximum points for those aged 20–29.
- Education: Higher points for Canadian or foreign degrees.
- Work Experience: Canadian and foreign experience are assessed.
- Language Proficiency: Points for English and/or French proficiency.
Additional Factors (600 points):
- Provincial Nomination (PNP): Provides the full 600 points.
- Sibling in Canada: Points for having family in Canada.
- Canadian Education or Work Experience.
Key Visa Types
- Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP): For highly skilled professionals.
- Canadian Experience Class (CEC): For individuals with Canadian work experience.
- Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs): For those nominated by provinces.
Benefits of the Canadian System
- Flexible for applicants with diverse backgrounds.
- Prioritizes bilingual candidates (English and French).
- Offers additional pathways through provincial nominations.
Know more about all Canadian visas: Click Here
Comparison of Points-Based Systems
| Criteria | Australia | UK | Canada |
|---|---|---|---|
| Minimum Points | 65 points | 70 points | No fixed threshold (CRS varies) |
| Language Proficiency | Mandatory (English) | Mandatory (English) | English and/or French |
| Age Factor | Maximum points: 25–32 years | No direct age points | Maximum points: 20–29 years |
| Education | Points for qualifications | Points for higher qualifications | Points for local/foreign degrees |
| Work Experience | Both domestic and overseas | Domestic experience prioritized | Points for both |
| Additional Pathways | State/territory nomination | Shortage occupations or salary | Provincial Nominee Program |
Which System is Right for You?
- Choose Australia if you’re under 45, highly skilled, and open to living in regional areas.
- Choose the UK if you have a job offer in a high-demand field and want to work in a globally connected country.
- Choose Canada if you prefer a family-friendly environment, strong bilingual opportunities, and flexibility in pathways.
Conclusion
Points-based systems are designed to attract skilled individuals and meet economic demands, but each country tailors its system to its priorities. By understanding these systems and aligning your skills and experience with their requirements, you can unlock exciting opportunities to live and work abroad.