In today’s interconnected world, a lot of people dream of moving abroad to find better job opportunities, get a good education, and enjoy a higher standard of living. The United Kingdom (UK) and Canada are often top choices because of their strong economies, excellent education systems, and top-notch healthcare.

If you’re unsure which country to pick for permanent residency, keep reading. We’ll compare the PR visas for both countries based on various factors to help you decide.

UK PR Visa

The UK PR Visa, also called Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), lets non-British citizens live and work in the UK permanently. It also allows them to apply for British citizenship. Here’s what you need to know:

Eligibility Criteria:

1. Time in the UK: You need to have spent a certain amount of time in the UK with a valid visa before applying for ILR. The required time varies based on your visa type.
2. Clean Record: You must have a clean criminal record and meet the English language requirements.
3. Life in the UK Test: You must pass this test, which covers British values, history, and culture.
4. Financial Stability: You need to earn enough to support yourself without relying on public funds.

UK PR Visa Application Process:

1. Document Gathering: Collect all required documents like your passport, biometric residence permit (BRP), and proof of address.
2. Online Application: Fill out the online form on the UK government’s website.
3. Fee Submission: Pay the required fee, which is currently £2385 for most applicants.
4. Wait for Decision: The Home Office will review your application, and processing times can vary.
5. Receive BRP: If successful, you’ll get a biometric residence permit showing your ILR status.

UK PR Visa Success Rates:

In 2021-2022, 98% of UK PR Visa applications were successful. This rate can vary based on factors like nationality and visa type, with some applicants facing more scrutiny due to immigration rules or security concerns.

Canada PR Visa

The Canada PR Visa lets immigrants live, work, and study in Canada permanently without restrictions. Here’s what you need to know:

Eligibility Criteria:

1. Language Proficiency: You need a minimum language proficiency in English or French (CLB 7 for most programs).
2. Financial Requirements: You must have enough money to support yourself and your family without public funds (about CAD 13,000 for most programs).
3. Education and Work Experience: You need at least one year of full-time or equivalent part-time work experience in a skilled occupation.
4. Medical and Police Clearance: You must pass a medical exam and provide police clearance certificates from all countries where you’ve lived for six months or more since age 18.

Canada PR Visa Application Process:

1. Profile Creation: Create an account on the IRCC website and complete your profile.
2. Submit Application: Submit your application online with all required documents and fees (currently CAD 850 for most programs). Some programs may need additional fees or biometrics.
3. Wait for Decision: IRCC will review your application, and processing times can vary.
4. Receive COPR: If successful, you’ll get a Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR) document showing your PR status.

Canadian PR Visa Success Rates:

In 2021-2022, 97% of Canada PR Visa applications were successful for most programs like Express Entry and Provincial Nominee Programs. This rate can vary based on factors like program type and nationality.

Similarities Between the UK PR Visa and Canadian PR Visa

1. Skilled Worker Requirements: Both the UK and Canadian PR visas need applicants to have skilled work experience. In the UK, it’s called the Skilled Worker Visa, and in Canada, it’s the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP).
2. Language Proficiency: Both countries require applicants to demonstrate proficiency in English or French. Canada also accepts other languages like Spanish or Portuguese in some cases.
3. Education Requirements: Both programs consider education important. The UK requires a recognized qualification equivalent to a bachelor’s degree or higher, while Canada requires at least one year of post-secondary education at a recognized institution.
4. Application Process: Both have similar application processes involving online profiles, necessary documentation, fees, and biometrics.
5. Processing Times: Processing times for both visas have been affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. The UK’s processing times for Skilled Worker Visas range from 3 weeks to 6 months, while Canada’s FSWP applications range from 6 months to 1 year.
6. Costs: Costs vary, with the UK’s Skilled Worker Visa application fee at £610 and Canada’s FSWP application fee at CAD 850. Additional fees for biometrics and processing may apply in both countries.

Which is Better, the Canadian PR or the UK PR?

When it comes to deciding between Canada and the UK for immigration, here’s a breakdown:

Eligibility Criteria:

• Canadian PR:
• Age: Points are awarded based on age (18-49 years old).
• Language Proficiency: CLB 7 or higher in English or French.
• Education: At least a one-year diploma or degree program.
• Work Experience: At least one year of full-time work in a skilled occupation.
• Adaptability: Points for factors like age, language proficiency, education, and work experience in Canada.
• ITA: Must receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) through Express Entry.
• UK PR:
• Age: No upper age limit.
• Language Proficiency: CEFR B1 or higher in English.
• Education: Completion of a recognized degree or diploma program.
• Work Experience: At least five years of full-time work in a skilled occupation.
• Adaptability: No points awarded for adaptability factors.
• Visa Application: Must apply for a visa and meet the Skilled Worker Visa requirements.

Verdict on Eligibility:

Canadian PR has more stringent requirements, which might be challenging for some but attract highly skilled individuals. UK PR, with less strict requirements, may draw a more diverse pool of applicants.

Processing Time and Costs:

• Canadian PR:
• Processing Time: Varies widely, from six months to over two years.
• Costs: CAD 850 per person, with additional fees for biometrics and family members.
• Express Entry System: Manages applications for certain economic immigration programs.
• Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs): Allows applications directly from provinces, adding points to the CRS score.
• UK PR:
• Processing Time: Generally around six months for outside UK applications and three weeks for inside UK applications.
• Costs: GBP 2389 per person, including fees for biometrics and healthcare surcharge.
• Skilled Worker Visa Route: Allows direct applications without a job offer from a sponsoring employer.

Verdict on Processing Time and Costs:

Canada’s processing times can be longer, but costs are generally lower. The UK’s processing times are shorter but come with higher costs due to additional fees.

Conclusion

Both the Canadian PR and the UK PR have their unique benefits. Weighing factors like job opportunities, processing times, cost of living, and long-term career prospects is crucial before deciding which program is best for you.

FAQ

Q: Which country has more job opportunities, Canada or the UK?
A: Both countries offer ample job opportunities, but it depends on your field. Research job markets in your industry for each country.

Q: How long does it take to get a PR in Canada vs. the UK?
A: Canadian PR processing can take six months to over two years, while the UK PR usually takes around six months for outside applications and three weeks for inside applications.

Q: Are there any age restrictions for applying for PR in Canada or the UK?
A: Canada awards points based on age, favoring those between 18-49. The UK has no upper age limit for PR applicants.