October 22, 2024

Top Cities for Pakistani Immigrants in Australia, Pros and Cons

In the recent past years, Australia has become as one of the most attractive & top destinations for immigrants from Pakistan. Australia offers better job opportunities, a very improved quality of life, a multicultural society & welcoming environment. In major cities of Australia Pakistani communities are strong and well settled. New immigrants from Pakistan are well supported. We have compared and provided details of major cities of Australia by mentioning their pros and cons to assist you to make an informed decision

1.Sydney: Also known as Cosmopolitan Capital of the World

Pros:

  • Business and financial activities are cantered in Sydney, which is considered to be Australia’s financial capital. There are plenty of job opportunities in many sectors, such as IT, Healthcare, Finance, and Engineering. Pakistanis living here can quickly find work in these areas.
  • Diverse population: Sydney has a large Pakistani community, particularly in areas such as Lakemba and Auburn. These neighbourhoods offer innocent food stores, churches and cultural events, making the newcomers feel more at home.
  • Top Universities of City: University of Sydney and University of New South Wales attract many Pakistani students due to their international reputation.
  • Excellency in services: High quality health services, reliable public transport and strong social services contribute to a better quality of life.

Cons:

  • High living cost: The city of Sydney is considered as one of the most expensive cities of Australia. Housing and general living costs are very high due to which new immigrants find it difficult to settle easily.
  • Traffic congestion: As Sydney is a big city due to which it suffers from heavy traffic. It remains busy during peak hours, vacations, and weekends.
  • Competitive Job Market: Sydney offers many attractive job opportunities, but competition is also very high especially for the new immigrants who do not have any local work experience.
  1. The City of Melbourne: “Capital of Culture”

Pros:

Vibrant Business Community: Melbourne has many places and towns like Broadmeadows & Glenroy which are considered as homes for Pakistani population having thriving restaurants and many other activities culture that creates a very supportive environment for new immigrants.

Diverse job market: Growing economy of Melbourne offers job opportunities in the field of technology, education, construction and healthcare. Skilled workers can easily find work here.

Liveability: The city of Melbourne is considered among the most liveable cities of world. It offers better health, education, & cultural life.

Study opportunities: Melbourne is home to many top ranked prestigious universities of world such as the University of Melbourne, RMIT, Monash University, and Swinburne University. These institutes attract a large number of students from Pakistan each year.

Cons:

Inconsistent Weather: This city of Australia is Known for its “four seasons in a day”, it becomes very hard to adapt to climate of Melbourne, especially during the cold winters.

Living costs: Although it is cheaper than Sydney, but Melbourne Housing costs are still high, especially in the suburb’s areas.

Competitive housing market: Due to high demand it is difficult to find affordable housing in some areas of the city.

  1. Brisbane: “The Sunshine City”

Advantages:

  • Affordable living costs: Brisbane has a lower cost of living than Sydney and Melbourne, which makes it more affordable for families and new expats.
  • The growing job market: Healthcare, education, tourism, and construction sectors are growing due to which there are more job opportunities for new entrants.
  • Warm climate: Climate in this city is milder and more familiar to Pakistani community and they enjoy it while living in Brisbine.
  • Supportive Community: Although Brisbane is smaller than other cities, Brisbane’s Pakistani community is continuously growing, with mosques, cultural centres and community groups which help newcomers settle in.

Cons:

  • Public transport limitations: Brisbane’s public transport system of Brisbane is improving but it still lags behind other cities like Sydney or Melbourne, making it more difficult to get to some places.
  • Hot summers: Summer season in Brisbane can be very hot and humid, which can be uncomfortable for some people.
  1. Perth: “Gateway to Western Australia”

Advantages:

  • Career opportunities in mining and resources sectors: Perth is considered as the centre of Australia’s mining industry, which offers excellent career opportunities especially for engineers, geographers and IT professionals.
  • Living Cost: Housing and living costs of Perth are comparatively more affordable than Sydney & Melbourne.
  • Growing Pakistani community: Although still smaller, but Pakistani community in Perth is growing, with many halal shops in markets, restaurants offering halal food, and mosques in towns as well such as Cunnington and Mirabucca.
  • Pleasant climate: With hot, dry summers and mild winters, Perth’s climate is similar to that of Pakistan.

Disadvantages:

  • Geographically Isolated: the city of Perth is far from other Australian cities, making travel and networking a bit more difficult.
  • Limited Cultural space: Cultural space of Perth is not as diverse as Sydney or Melbourne.
  • Labor market constraints: While Perth offers many job opportunities in mining and materials, there may be fewer opportunities available in other sectors, such as finance.
  1. Adelaide: “The Quiet Achiever”

Advantages:

  • Affordable Living: Adelaide is also one of the most affordable cities in Australia, especially for the people who are looking to buy a home.
  • Relaxation: With a slower pace of life, Adelaide can be an ideal place for families or people looking for a more relaxed environment.
  • Growing Labor market: Health, education and defence sectors provide good career opportunities for skilled workers.
  • Quality of education: Adelaide has an excellent education system with several prestigious universities like University of Adelaide and University of South Australia.

Disadvantages:

  • Smaller Pakistani community: Presence of Pakistani community in Adelaide is smaller as compared to other cities of Australia, making cross cultural communication a bit more difficult and challenging.
  • Public transport is limited: Public transport system of Adelaide is not as developed as other larger cities, making travel more challenging.
  • Fewer job opportunities: Job market of Adelaide is growing but it is still small compared to Sydney or Melbourne, particularly in specialist industries.
  1. Canberra: “The Capital”

Advantages:

  • Government Jobs: Being the administrative centre of Australia, Canberra offers many job opportunities in government and public sectors, especially for IT professionals, engineers and politicians.
  • High standard of living: Canberra is known for its excellent quality of life, having first class public services, education and healthcare facilities.
  • Affordable housing: Housing in this city is more affordable than Sydney or Melbourne, which makes it attractive for families.
  • Family-friendly environment: Canberra is one of the most ideal cities for families looking for a quiet life, with its green spaces and peaceful atmosphere.

Disadvantages:

  • Small Pakistani community: Pakistani population in Canberra is smaller, making it harder for new immigrants to find cultural connections and support.
  • Cold winters: Canberra’s winters are usually harsh, with temperatures often dropping below freezing point, making it difficult for those belonging from warmer climates.
  • Fewer job opportunities in the non-government sector: While government jobs are frequent, other industries may not offer as many job opportunities to new immigrants.

Final Thoughts

Australia has many great cities to offer, with their own advantages and challenges to Pakstani expats. Sydney & Melbourne are considered more vibrant, offer multicultural environments and strong labour markets, but the cost of living is comparatively higher. Brisbane and Perth are more affordable and have more jobs in some fields. Adelaide and Canberra offer quieter, more relaxed lifestyle, more affordable living costs, less job opportunities for skilled worker, and less cultural diversity. The best for you is entirely dependent on your career goals, lifestyle needs and requirements and financial condition.

October 22, 2024

How to Apply for Australian Permanent Residency: A Complete Guide

Australia enjoys high demand as a country of choice for people seeking to start a new life in a new country due to a higher quality of life, a sound economy, and diverse population. The Australian permanent residency visa lets a person live, work and study in Australia as they please. In this guide, you will find out the major processes, eligibility criteria, and procedures for immigration to Australia as a permanent resident using accurate and up-to-date information from Australian government organizations.

  1. What is Australian Permanent Residency?

The immigration status like Australian Permanent Residency (PR) offers you most of the rights as an ordinary citizen in Australia. With PR status, you can:

  • Able to work, live and study within Australia with no restrictions of time.
  • Get sponsorship for eligible family members with PR.
  • Make use of Medicare to receive free or at a subsidized price health care service.
  • Apply for citizenship of Australia after satisfying the requirements.
  • There be no limitation on travel within or outside Australia on conditions of travel facility though.

However, PR holders cannot vote in federal or state elections, unless they obtain Australian citizenship.

  1. Key Pathways to Australian Permanent Residency

There are several visa categories through which individuals can obtain PR in Australia. The most common pathways include:

  1. a) Skilled Migration Visas

The Australian government appreciates skilled workers, and there are several visas available in Australia for workers with skills. Some key skilled migration visas include:

  1. Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189)
  • This visa is for people who don’t have an employer, a state or a family member to sponsor him or her. It is a point-based visa that enable the holder to live and work in Australia permanently in any given state of his/her choice.
  1. Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190)
  • This visa is for skilled workers who have been sponsored by an Australian state or territory government agency. This one also has point systems but applicants are required to be resident in the nominating state for a particular number of years.
  1. Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa (Subclass 491)
  • This is a temporary visa of the skilled worker who is sponsored by a state or a territory to work in regional Australia. When all the conditions have been met, an applicant may use the Subclass 191 visa to apply for PR.

To apply for these visas, applicants must first submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) through Australia’s Skill Select system and receive an invitation to apply.

  1. b) Employer-Sponsored Visas

If one has a job offer from any Australian employer, he/she may be eligible for employer sponsored visa. Most common path ways in this class are:

  1. Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS) Visa (Subclass 186)
    • This visa is applicable only for skilled workers nominated by an employer in Australia. Applicants can either apply from inside or outside Australia.
  2. Regional Sponsored Migration Scheme (RSMS) Visa (Subclass 187)
    • This visa applies for skilled workers nominated by an employer in regional Australia. It requires workers to work in a regional area of the country.
  1. c) Family-Sponsored Visas

Family members of permanent residents or Australian citizens are also eligible to apply for PR. Common options in these visas include:

  1. Partner Visa (Subclass 820/801, 309/100)
    • Spouse or de facto partner of an Australian citizen or PR holder can apply for this visa to live in Australia.
  2. Parent Visa (Subclass 103, 143)
    • This visa enables the parent of a citizen of Australia or a permanent resident to move to Australia. As mentioned before, there are a number of parent visa categories; however, some of them can take a very long time to be granted, up to 30 years for non–PBS parent visa.
  1. d) Business and Investment Visas

Australia encourages business owners, investors and entrepreneurs to migrate through Business Innovation and Investment (Provisional) Visa (Subclass 188) and the permanent Business Talent (Permanent) Visa (Subclass 132). These categories of visas require significant financial investments or successful business ownership.

  1. Points-Based System for Skilled Migration Visas

For skilled migration visas (Subclass 189, 190, and 491), Australia uses a points-based system to assess candidates. Points are awarded based on various factors, including:

  • Age: Applicants between 25-32 years get the maximum points.
  • English Language Proficiency: High scores in tests like IELTS or PTE can earn more points.
  • Work Experience: Relevant work experience in your occupation in and outside Australia can give you points.
  • Qualifications: Higher education degrees such as a bachelor’s or master’s degree are awarded more points.
  • Australian Study Requirement: Studying in Australia can add additional points.
  • State Nomination or Sponsorship: Additional points are awarded if a state or territory government nominates you.

Currently, the minimum required points to submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) is 65, but most successful applicants tend to score higher (typically around 80+ points).

  1. The Application Process
  2. a) Step 1: Check Eligibility

Before applying for any PR visa, you must ensure that you meet the eligibility criteria, such as occupation requirements, qualifications, and work experience. For skilled migration visas, your occupation must be on the Skilled Occupation List (SOL) or the Consolidated Sponsored Occupation List (CSOL), depending on the visa subclass.

  1. b) Step 2: Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI)

For skilled migration visas, you must lodge an EOI through Skill Select, the Australian Government’s online system. In your EOI, you’ll provide details of your skills, qualifications, and points assessment.

If your EOI is selected based on your points score and occupation, you will receive an invitation to apply for the visa.

  1. c) Step 3: Gather Required Documents

Once you receive an invitation, you must gather the required documents. These typically include:

  • Proof of identity (passport, birth certificate).
  • Skills assessment (conducted by an assessing authority for your occupation).
  • Proof of English language proficiency (IELTS, PTE scores).
  • Work experience and educational qualifications.
  • Health and character certificates (police clearance, medical exams).
  1. d) Step 4: Lodge Your Visa Application

After gathering all the necessary documents, you can lodge your visa application online through the Immi Account portal. The processing time for PR visas can vary depending on the type of visa and individual circumstances but generally ranges from 6 to 12 months.

  1. e) Step 5: Await Decision

Once your application is submitted, you will receive a bridging visa (if applying from within Australia) that allows you to remain in the country while your PR application is processed. You can track the status of your application online, and you may be asked to provide additional documents if needed.

  1. Costs Involved

Applying for Australian PR can be expensive. The costs include:

  • Visa application fee: Varies depending on the visa subclass but typically ranges from AUD 4,240 to AUD 7,850 for primary applicants.
  • Skills assessment fees: Depending on your occupation, these can range from AUD 300 to AUD 1,000.
  • English language test: The IELTS test fee is approximately AUD 375.

Additionally, there may be fees for medical exams, police clearances, and other associated costs.

  1. Final Thoughts

Australian Permanent Residency visa application needs strategy, legal compliance for visa qualification. If you go by the correct channel such as through talent or employer nomination or family sponsorship or business investment then your chance of a positive outcome and getting the PR and a new life in Australia are high. The Department of Home Affairs is the relevant and credible source of information regarding all the PR applications. You can visit their official website for the most current updates on requirements, fees, and application processes: Ministry of home affairs Australian government. With these ideas, you can remain informed about the issues facing PR and be prepared sufficiently to successfully achieve your particular goal.

October 22, 2024

Canada vs. Australia: Which Country is Better for Pakistani Immigrants?

In comparison of Canada & Australia as immigration destinations for Pakistani immigrants, both the countries offer excellent opportunities for students, families, and skilled workers. Both nations are ranked high in terms of their quality of life, economic stability, education, and healthcare but both have their unique immigration policies, job markets, and living conditions that may suit individuals in different ways. Below is the comprehensive comparison of Australia & Canada, focusing on several factors relevant to Pakistani immigrants.

  1. Immigration Policies and Pathways

Canada:

  • Express Entry System: Canada operates the Express Entry system for skilled immigrants, which uses a Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) to score applicants based on factors such as age, education, work experience, and language skills.
  • Provincial Nominee Program (PNP): Provinces in Canada can nominate immigrants based on their specific labour market needs, which increases an applicant’s chances of being selected.
  • Family Reunification: Canada has a robust family sponsorship program that allows permanent residents and citizens to bring family members, including spouses, children, parents, and grandparents.
  • Clear and Predictable Process: Canada’s immigration system is known for being transparent and predictable, with published guidelines, points-based assessments, and regular draws for selection.

Australia:

  • Skill Select System: Australia uses the Skill Select system, which is also points-based, to select immigrants based on their qualifications, English language ability, and work experience. The main visas include the Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189) and Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190).
  • Regional Focus: Australia encourages immigration to regional areas through the Skilled Work Regional Visa (Subclass 491), offering incentives such as a pathway to permanent residency after living and working in designated regional areas.
  • Family Reunification: Australia also offers family visas, but the process can be slower and more restrictive compared to Canada, especially for parents and extended family members.

Verdict: Canada has a more flexible and transparent immigration system, particularly through the Express Entry and family reunification programs. Australia’s system is more region-focused, which may benefit those interested in living outside major cities.

  1. Job Opportunities and Employment Market

Canada:

  • High Demand for Skilled Workers: Canada has a strong demand for workers in sectors such as information technology, healthcare, engineering, construction, and skilled trades. The shortage of skilled labor is expected to grow, making it a welcoming market for skilled immigrants.
  • Recognition of Foreign Credentials: While there is demand for skilled labor, Canada’s process for recognizing foreign qualifications can sometimes be lengthy and complicated, especially for regulated professions like medicine and engineering. However, Canada has been improving its credential recognition system for newcomers.
  • Job Market Flexibility: Immigrants in Canada often face challenges in securing employment in their field of expertise upon arrival, but the overall employment rate for immigrants improves over time.

Australia:

  • High Demand for Skilled Workers in Specific Sectors: Australia has a strong labour market for professionals in industries such as mining, healthcare, engineering, and IT. Australian employers frequently look for skilled migrants to fill gaps in these sectors, especially in regional areas.
  • Fast Credential Recognition Process: Australia has a relatively efficient system for recognizing foreign qualifications, especially for skilled professionals like engineers, nurses, and tradespeople, helping skilled migrants integrate into the workforce faster.
  • Employment Challenges in Cities: While the job market is strong in certain industries, finding employment in major cities like Sydney and Melbourne can be competitive, and skilled migrants may need to take lower-level jobs before securing roles in their fields.

Verdict: Both countries offer good job opportunities, but Australia is particularly attractive for quicker recognition of foreign qualifications. However, Canada may offer more flexibility and long-term growth opportunities, especially in industries like IT and healthcare.

  1. Cost of Living and Housing

Canada:

  • Moderate Cost of Living: The cost of living in Canada is generally considered moderate, but it can vary significantly depending on the city. For example, cities like Toronto and Vancouver have high housing costs, while smaller cities such as Calgary, Ottawa, and Halifax are more affordable.
  • Affordable Housing Options: Canada offers affordable housing in many regions, especially in suburban and smaller cities, making it a feasible destination for new immigrants looking to settle in quieter areas with lower costs.
  • Healthcare Costs: Canada offers free public healthcare to permanent residents and citizens, which significantly reduces out-of-pocket expenses.

Australia:

  • Higher Cost of Living: The cost of living in Australia tends to be higher compared to Canada, especially in major cities like Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane. Housing, utilities, and groceries can be expensive in urban areas.
  • Expensive Housing: Australia’s housing market is known for high prices, especially in metropolitan cities. However, more affordable housing is available in regional areas, which the government is encouraging skilled migrants to explore.
  • Healthcare Costs: Australia has a public healthcare system called Medicare, but many residents also opt for private health insurance to cover additional costs not included in the public system. Medicare covers essential medical services, but some treatments may require out-of-pocket payments or insurance.

Verdict: Canada generally has a more affordable cost of living, particularly outside major urban centres. Australia offers high living standards but tends to have higher costs, particularly in housing.

  1. Education System

Canada:

  • World-Class Education System: Canada offers a highly regarded education system, with free public education available for children of immigrants up to secondary school. Canadian universities are globally ranked, offering world-class education at relatively affordable costs compared to the U.S. or U.K.
  • Pathways for International Students: Canada is also a popular destination for international students, and many Pakistani students pursue higher education in Canada due to the post-graduation work opportunities and pathways to permanent residency.

Australia:

  • Renowned for Higher Education: Australia also has a world-class education system, especially at the tertiary level. Universities in Australia, such as the University of Melbourne, University of Sydney, and Australian National University, are internationally recognized.
  • Public Education System: Australia provides free or low-cost public education for children of residents and citizens. International students also benefit from strong support systems and pathways to permanent residency after graduation.

Verdict: Both Canada and Australia offer excellent education systems, but Canada may provide more affordable options for families and students at the primary and secondary levels, with easier pathways for international students to stay permanently.

  1. Cultural and Social Integration

Canada:

  • Multicultural Society: Canada is known for its multicultural and immigrant-friendly society. Cities like Toronto, Vancouver, and Calgary have large Pakistani and South Asian communities, which makes it easier for newcomers to integrate.
  • Supportive Government Policies: Canada actively promotes diversity and inclusion, offering various settlement services, language training programs, and support systems for new immigrants.

Australia:

  • Cultural Diversity: Australia also has a diverse and multicultural society, with strong South Asian communities in cities like Melbourne and Sydney. The country celebrates its immigrant population, but integration can be slower in more regional areas.
  • Immigration Sentiment: While Australia welcomes skilled immigrants, there have been occasional public debates about immigration levels, especially around asylum seekers. However, overall, the country remains welcoming to skilled immigrants.

Verdict: Canada may offer a slightly more immigrant-friendly environment with strong support for integration and established Pakistani communities in many major cities.

  1. Climate and Geography

Canada:

  • Cold Winters: Canada is known for its harsh winters, particularly in the northern provinces. Cities like Toronto, Montreal, and Vancouver experience snowy, cold winters, although Vancouver has a milder climate compared to other parts of the country.
  • Beautiful Landscapes: Canada is home to stunning landscapes, including forests, lakes, and mountains, offering various outdoor recreational activities.

Australia:

  • Warm Climate: Australia enjoys a warm, temperate climate, especially in coastal areas. Winters are mild compared to Canada, making Australia an attractive destination for those who prefer warmer weather.
  • Outdoor Lifestyle: Australia is known for its beaches, national parks, and outdoor lifestyle, making it ideal for those who enjoy outdoor activities and a more laid-back lifestyle.

Verdict: Australia offers a more favourable climate, especially for those who prefer warmer weather, while Canada is better suited for those who don’t mind cold winters and enjoy diverse seasons.

Conclusion: Which Country is Better for Pakistani Immigrants?

  • For Skilled Immigration and Job Opportunities: Australia may offer faster recognition of foreign qualifications and specific regional job opportunities, but Canada offers a more flexible, transparent immigration system and long-term job market potential.
  • For Families and Education: Canada provides more affordable living and education options, along with better family reunification programs, making it a better choice for immigrants with families.
  • For Climate and Lifestyle: Australia has the advantage of a warm climate and outdoor lifestyle, but Canada offers a more established multicultural society and support for new immigrants.

In summary, Canada may be a better choice for Pakistani immigrants seeking family-friendly immigration policies, affordable living, and a multicultural society, while Australia might be better for those who prioritize quick employment in regional areas, faster credential recognition, and a warmer climate. Both countries are excellent choices depending on individual priorities.

 

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