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by ImmiLaw Global

Top 5 Countries Offering Smooth Paths to Permanent Residency for Indians

Migration has become a common phenomenon for those seeking to bolster their careers, enjoy new experiences with their families and love to appreciate diverse cultures. There is a growing number of popular destinations that offer simplified and favourable immigration processes. These destinations feature strong economic prospects and provide a welcoming environment for newcomers.

In this article, we will explore the top five popular countries that offer easy and efficient routes to permanent residency, making the journey toward global living more accessible.

Australia

Australia remains a favourite destination for many due to its vibrant multicultural society, strong economy, and high quality of life. The country offers various visa options for students, temporary workers, skilled professionals, and tourists. Some of them include:

Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189): This visa is a great option for skilled workers without sponsorship from an employer, state, or family member.

Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190): For skilled workers nominated by a state or territory government, you can live and work in a specific region of Australia permanently.

For both options, the applicants must submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) through the SkillSelect system and receive an invitation to apply based on their points score and occupation. The Skill Select Migration Program is an online system for skilled workers and simplifies the process for qualified workers, making it easier to achieve permanent residency. 

Student Visa (Subclass 500): This visa allows international students to study in Australia for the duration of their course. It provides the opportunity for a post-study work permit, which can lead to pathways for permanent residency.

Partner Visa subclass 820/801 (onshore) and 100/309 (offshore) This visa allows the spouse or de facto partner of an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen to live in Australia. This visa is available to both heterosexual and same-sex couples.

Singapore

As a global financial hub, Singapore attracts many skilled professionals with its high standard of living and robust economy. The country offers several schemes for permanent residency:

  • Professionals, Technical Personnel, and Skilled Workers Scheme (PTS): This is the most common PR scheme that targets skilled workers with Employment passes.
  • Global Investor Programme (GIP): Targets investors willing to invest SGD 2.5 million in Singapore.
  • Foreign Artistic Scheme: This is for distinguished artists with exceptional talent in various fields, such as performing arts, visual arts, and literature. The visa is typically valid for up to two years and can be renewed based on continued contributions.
  • Student Pass: This is for international students enrolled in full-time programs at approved institutions in Singapore. The Student Pass permits students to reside in Singapore during their studies.

Canada

Canada is one of the most immigration-friendly countries, attracting millions of skilled professionals from around the world each year. The country plans to admit one million immigrants by 2024 through various pathways:

Express Entry: It is an online system in Canada that efficiently manages immigration applications for various programs. Applicants must initially submit an Express Entry profile to the candidate pool to be eligible. The Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) then evaluates and ranks all profiles against each other, assigning a CRS score out of 1200 points to each candidate. High-ranking candidates receive invitations to apply for permanent residency, making it the fastest pathway for immigration.

Provincial Nominee Program (PNP): This program allows provinces and territories to nominate skilled workers who meet specific local labour market needs. Each province has its criteria and streams, providing multiple pathways to permanent residency for those with skills in demand regionally.

Study Permit: This permit allows international students to study at a designated learning institution (DLI) in Canada. It also grants international students to work part-time during their studies and gain valuable Canadian work experience, which can lead to PR.

Quebec Skilled Worker Program (QSWP): For those targeting Quebec.

Germany

With a solid industrial base and enormous job opportunities, Germany has become one of the popular destinations among skilled professionals and international students. The country offers a variety of visas to cater to different needs, for those wishing to live, work, study, or conduct research in the country. Some of the primary visa types include:

Employment Visa: This visa is for individuals who have secured a job offer in Germany. Applicants must have a valid job contract and meet specific job qualifications. The visa allows for long-term residence and is valid for up to four years.

Blue Card: Designed for highly skilled non-EU workers, the Blue Card offers residency and work rights to individuals with a university degree and a job offer with a minimum salary requirement (typically around €56,400 annually, or €43,992 for shortage occupations). The Blue Card is often a pathway to permanent residency.

Job Seeker Visa: This visa is for professionals looking to work in Germany. You may stay for up to six months to find a job in Germany. To qualify, applicants must have a recognized university degree and sufficient funds to support themselves during their stay.

Student Visa: For international students enrolled in a full-time program at a German educational institution. The visa is valid for the duration of the study program and allows students to work part-time during their studies.

Researcher Visa: This visa is for scientists and researchers with a research project or job offer in Germany. It allows for a long-term stay and is often issued for the duration of the research project.

Family Reunion Visa: This visa is for family members of individuals residing in Germany. It allows spouses, children, and other close relatives to join family members who hold a residence permit or are German citizens.

Freelance Visa: This is for self-employed individuals and freelancers who want to work in Germany. Applicants must demonstrate that they have sufficient financial resources and a viable business plan.

New Zealand

Known for its rich diversity and multiculturalism, New Zealand is home to generations of immigrants from around the globe. The abundance of job placements, especially in the healthcare sector, makes this Pacific country particularly appealing. Let us explore some of the visa types:
Visitor Visa: This visa is well suited for tourists, family visits, and short-term business trips. It allows a person to stay in New Zealand for a specific period, up to nine months, making it perfect for exploring the country or attending short-term events.

Student Visa: New Zealand's world-class educational institutions attract international students from all over the world. The Student Visa allows international students to study and work part-time during their studies, gaining valuable experience and supporting their living expenses.

Work Visa: Skilled professionals seeking jobs in New Zealand can apply for various work visas. These visas are designed to fill skill shortages in key industries and offer skilled workers a chance to contribute to New Zealand's workforce. Eventually, they will lead to permanent residency, providing long-term stability and opportunities.

Resident Visa: This visa provides a pathway to becoming a permanent resident, offering benefits such as access to healthcare, education, and the ability to live and work in New Zealand indefinitely. The government often grants this visa to individuals who hold work visas or are nominated through family sponsorship.

All these visa options highlight why these countries remain popular top-five destinations for skilled professionals, international students, and tourists alike. Their commitment to welcoming newcomers and providing ample opportunities for personal and professional growth makes these immigration-friendly countries more attractive.

ImmiLaw Global is ready to provide comprehensive assistance in navigating the various immigration paths available for skilled workers in different countries. 

Contact us for expert guidance tailored to your needs and kick-start your immigration journey.