Countries with Easy Immigration for International Students: For many students seeking a global education and a cross-cultural experience, studying abroad is an exciting choice. However, managing the immigration procedure can be difficult at times. Fortunately, numerous nations have enacted rules that make it simpler for overseas students to achieve their academic goals without additional obstacles.
Whether it is Canada, Australia, Germany, New Zealand, Singapore, or the United Kingdom, each of these countries has something special to offer, whether you are looking for a famous education system, different cultural experiences, or potential professional prospects. These countries have recognised the importance and contributions that overseas students bring to their cultures, from expedited visa processes to post-study work permits.
In this guide, we will look at some of the best countries with easy immigration for international students. These nations not only provide high-quality education but also help students integrate into their academic institutions and local communities. We will also discover the ease of immigration, academic brilliance, and active student life that await individuals who choose to further their studies in these warm countries.
Best Countries with Easy Immigration for International Students - Overview
Let us first have a quick look at the best countries with easy immigration for international students or PR for international graduates, including those from India. Also, find their respective PR visas or pathway programmes:
Country |
PR Visas/Pathway Programmes |
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Canada |
Canadian Experience Class, FSW programme, PNP, Quebec Immigration Options and PSWP |
Australia |
Subclass 189, subclass 190, subclass 491 |
New Zealand |
Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa, 2021 Resident Visa, Long Term Skill Shortage List Work Visa |
Germany |
German permanent residence permit or Settlement Permit |
Singapore |
Singapore PR Visa |
United Kingdom | UK PR Visa |
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Immigrate to Canada After Study
It is known that Canada tops the list of countries with easy immigration. For international students who want to immigrate to Canada post their studies, the country has exclusively designed a number of pathway programmes. Also, going to Canada as an international student is known to be the first step to gaining permanent residence.
Here are the Canadian immigration pathway programmes:
Canadian Experience Class
One of the most popular and fastest Canadian PR pathways for international students, this programme is operated under the Express Entry system. To obtain this, international students need to fulfil a number of eligibility criteria including providing evidence for at least 12 months of full-time, continuous and skilled work experience in Canada.
Again, if the student gathers experience during their study programme, it would not be counted towards the 12-month requirement. Apart from this, an international student also needs to meet other criteria based on language proficiency, level of education and age.
Federal Skilled Worker Programme
The FSW programme, operated through the country's Express Entry system, lets international graduates with skilled worker experience abroad immigrate to Canada. It is a merit-based programme which evaluates applicants using a points-based Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score.
Although highly competitive, this can be a Canadian PR option for international students who can manage to meet the eligibility requirements.
Provincial Nominee Programmes
In Canada, each province has different immigration programmes called Provincial Nominee programmes (PNPs). These have been curated keeping in the mind the varying needs of a particular province or territory. PNPs prefer applicants with some connection to the province like a history of studying or working in the province.
Quebec Immigration Options
The Quebec province has a separate immigration system with its own set of eligibility criteria and application process. Broadly, Quebec Immigration Options can be divided into the Quebec Experience programme (PEQ) and Quebec Skilled Worker (QSW).
While PEQ is for those who have completed their programme or are only 6 months away from completing the programme, QSW is for those who have either completed or are about to complete an education credential in the province.
Post-Graduation Work Permits
Although it is not a direct PR programme, it allows international students who have graduated from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) to remain in Canada after their course of study or work in Canada.
Immigrate to Australia After Study
Australia has become one of the easiest countries to immigrate to in 2022, primarily because of its points-based system. International students can also check their eligibility by using the Australia PR calculator. Given below are the Australia PR visas for international students along with their provisions and eligibility:
Applicable Australia PR Visas
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Skilled Independent Visa (subclass 189)
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Skilled Nominated Visa (subclass 190)
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Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) visa (subclass 491)
Provisions for PR in Australia
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The visa allows students to work and study anywhere in Australia,
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Become an Australian permanent resident and then an Australian citizen (if eligible),
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Allows students to sponsor eligible relatives for permanent residence,
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Lets students enrol in public health care scheme, Medicare of the country,
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Students can travel to and from Australia for five years.
Australian PR Eligibility
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Students must have completed their studies in Australia for a total of at least 16 calendar months while holding an authorised Australian student visa,
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They should have more than one qualification leading to a total of no less than two academic years of study and a single eligible qualification, OR, a single eligible qualification requiring at least two academic years of study.
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They must also meet other requirements including employment, age, English language skills, partner skills, and more.
Immigrate to New Zealand After Study
International graduates in New Zealand who have been living in the country for two or more years on a New Zealand residence visa may qualify for an NZ PR visa. The same will allow them to travel to and from New Zealand at their convenience.
Let us see why New Zealand is featured in the list of top countries with easy immigration/PR. New Zealand offers a wide range of Residence visa options for international students. These may include:
Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa
Students with the required skills, qualifications and experience for the growth of the country's economy can be invited to apply for this visa. If approved, the applicant along with their family can live in New Zealand permanently.
2021 Resident Visa
Those who were in the country on September 29, 2021, might be able to apply for this visa if they have an eligible work visa and they either earn at or above the median wage, work in a scarce list role or have lived in New Zealand for the last three years.
Long Term Skill Shortage List Work Visa
In case the student has the required experience and qualifications to fill a vacancy under the country's Long Term Skill Shortage List and has an offer in the same occupation, they may be eligible for this visa.
It is important to note that New Zealand also follows a points-based system like Australia. The same takes into account factors such as age, educational qualification, job offers, family ties and work experience.
Immigrate to Germany After Study
Moving on to Germany, which is one of the top countries with easy immigration or PR, it has been widely famous for offering free education (terms and conditions applied). And, more often than not, those studying in Germany are likely to apply for permanent residency and even citizenship post that.
The German permanent residence permit, also known as Settlement Permit, is offered only after an applicant has lived and worked in the country for a particular period of time. Briefly, gaining Germany PR requires international students to meet some requirements:
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Must have gained at least two years of experience as a skilled worker,
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Must have a German university degree or vocational training,
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Must have B1 level or higher proficiency in the German language,
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Must submit evidence of financial support,
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Must have contributed to the statutory pension insurance while living and working in Germany,
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Might also be required to submit proof of accommodation in Germany,
Immigrate to Singapore After Study
Coming to the fifth country with easy immigration for international students, Singapore is known for its world-class education, top-ranked universities and welcoming policies.
The easiest way to get PR in Singapore is through the Long Term Visit Pass (1 year) when you should be working. After that, students can apply for the Singapore work permit, following which they can apply for the professional, Technical Personnel and Skilled Workers Scheme (PTS).
Although Singapore allows all international students studying in the country to apply for PR consideration, they still need to meet some basic requirements, such as:
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International students must have lived in Singapore for more than two years at the time of application,
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They should have passed at least one national exam such as PSLE or GCE N/O/A levels, or
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They should be in an Integrated Programme (IP).
Immigrate to UK After Studies
Another great country with simple immigration for overseas students is the United Kingdom. It is one of the greatest possibilities for studying abroad. It is not only a student-friendly country, but also a multicultural country since students from all over the world flock to study in the United Kingdom. The country warmly welcomes students who wish to study and become permanent residents.
Working after studying in the UK
Getting a decent job is a great way to stay in the UK once you finish your studies. Upon the completion of a degree, the UK invites the most brilliant talents to work. After completing their studies in the UK, students can apply for a work permit. International students have a huge benefit in the form of a two years’ Post Student Work Visa (PSW).
After completing their studies, international students can apply for a Tier 2 visa. A Tier 2 visa in the United Kingdom is a work visa that permits the visa holder to work in the country. After obtaining a Tier 2 visa, students can seek permanent work in the UK area. Find more details here: Remain and work permit after studying in the UK
Apply for Permanent Residency in UK
After completing 5 full years of a graduate job, you can apply for a permanent residence card in the UK. The candidate must get an Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) Visa in order to become a permanent resident. Full-time work, a solid code of conduct, and no criminal background will all help you secure an ILR visa in the UK.
You must pass both tests; the test of Life in the UK test and a certified English language competency test. The application procedure for an ILR visa might take up to 6 months. The following information is gathered for the ILR:
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Current passport
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Digital prints of all 10 fingers
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2 passport-size photographs
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Signature
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Birth Certificate
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Present Immigration Status
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Present Studying or Working Status
Permanent residency or PR in the United Kingdom is achievable for Indian and other overseas students who meet all of the qualifications outlined above.
Processing Time of PR Visa in Countries with Easy Immigration
The PR visa processing time often varies depending on the country and the submission of required documents. If an international student has submitted all the visa-related documents properly, their processing time will be less. Otherwise, they will have to share the documents again, after which the PR visa processing time will increase. Here is a list of the countries with easy immigration and their PR visa processing time:
Country |
PR Visa Processing Time |
---|---|
Canada |
3-4 months |
Australia |
3-7 months |
New Zealand |
76 days-6 months |
Germany |
2-3 weeks |
Singapore |
Around 6 months |
UK | 6 months |
Country-Specific Visa Process and Stay Back
A student visa is an important part of studying abroad. Also, being an international student, if one wishes to work in the study destination, it is necessary to know about the country's post-study work permits and stay back periods. Check out the country-specific visa process and stay back period from the links given below:
Country Name |
Stay Back Period for International Students |
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Australia |
2-4 years, depending on the level of education |
Canada |
Up to 3 years after graduation |
Germany |
18 months for Bachelor's, 1.5-2 years for Master's |
Singapore |
1 year for Bachelor's, 2 years for Master's |
United Kingdom |
2 years for Bachelor's and Master's |
New Zealand |
1-3 years, depending on the level of education |
Important Note: The stay back periods listed in the table are estimates and subject to change. At the time of application, students must confirm the individual immigration restrictions and stay-back alternatives in each nation.
How to Choose Among the Countries With Easy Immigration?
To make an educated choice among countries with easy immigration for international students, numerous aspects must be considered. Here are some crucial elements to consider while selecting a destination:
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Academic Opportunities: Evaluate the quality and reputation of each country's universities or educational institutions. Look for programmes and courses that can help you achieve your academic and professional goals.
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Immigration Regulations: Research each country's individual immigration regulations and visa alternatives. Consider post-study work permits, avenues to permanent residency, and, if applicable, family sponsorship alternatives.
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Cost of Living and Financial Considerations: Consider the cost of living, tuition fees, and the availability of scholarships or financial help. Examine your budget to see if you can easily afford the costs of studying and living in that nation.
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Prospective Careers: Research the employment market and career options in your subject of study in each nation. Look for booming industries that have a significant need for specialists in your field.
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Cultural and Lifestyle Factors: Consider each country's cultural, social, and lifestyle features. Consider the language spoken, the temperature, the safety, and the general quality of life provided by the country.
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International Student Support Services: Explore the international student support services offered by universities or educational institutions. Consider orientation programmes, accommodation assistance, career services, and student organisations that might enrich your international experience.
By carefully evaluating these aspects, you may make an educated selection and select a country that corresponds with your educational, professional, and personal objectives, resulting in a fulfilling and enjoyable international student experience.
Beginning an educational journey in a foreign country may be a life-changing experience, and picking a country with simple immigration regulations can help make that goal a reality. Canada, Australia, Germany, New Zealand, Singapore, and the United Kingdom have all established themselves as inviting destinations for international students.
These countries have demonstrated their commitment to creating a welcoming atmosphere for students from all over the world by streamlining visa processes, providing many professional possibilities, and giving diverse cultural experiences. Students may embrace a transformational education while making lasting experiences and broadening their global perspectives by visiting one of these countries with easy immigration for international students.
We have study abroad experts on board who can guide students through the student visa or PR visa process. Get in touch with them at abroad@collegedekho.com.
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