In a rapidly evolving global education and immigration landscape, students aspiring for Permanent Residency (PR) in countries like Canada, Australia, and New Zealand must make informed academic choices. Ritika Gupta, CEO of Aaera Consultants, Delhi, offers in-depth insights into PR-friendly degree programmes, skilled migration policies, and strategic advice for international aspirants. With years of experience guiding students, she stresses that while PR dreams are valid, passion and purpose should remain the core drivers.
Q: According to you, what are some of the most PR-friendly degree programmes currently in demand in Canada, Australia, and New Zealand?
According to me—and practically anyone familiar with the system—if you’re targeting PR, especially in Canada, almost any degree works. Whether it’s a business programme or a STEM-based engineering course, there’s no rocket science. You simply need to stay there for a year or two, and you’re set to begin your PR journey.
In Australia, PR-friendliness depends more on your academic background. Courses such as Public Health, Logistics and Supply Chain Management, Information Systems, Sports Management or Therapy, Hospitality and Tourism, Social Work, Psychology, Medicinal Programmes, and Engineering—all of these, including a blend of STEM and Arts, are beneficial. Construction Management is currently booming due to the housing shortage, and the country is actively seeking engineers and architects.
New Zealand follows a similar pattern. Programmes related to IT or Hospitality are highly favourable for PR and offer short-term pathways as well.
Q: Do the post-study work visa policies in these countries support international graduates in gaining permanent residency?
Absolutely. In Canada, your post-study work visa duration aligns with your course length. A one-year course gives a one-year visa, and similarly for two or three years. These add credit or PR points, allowing you to initiate your PR process upon graduation.
In Australia, if a student has prior job experience in their home country and pursues a master’s programme, they’re often eligible to apply for PR immediately upon graduating. However, it’s important to note that one may not directly apply for PR based only on work experience unless employed in a high-demand role.
Many of these courses fall under the skilled occupation list, and Australia and New Zealand follow quite similar PR frameworks. Being on the skilled list enhances your PR chances significantly. Students must consult the latest skilled lists for accurate planning.
Q: Are there any specific regions or provinces within Canada, Australia, or New Zealand that offer faster PR routes for graduates in certain fields?
Definitely. Regional areas offer substantial benefits. In Australia and Canada, cities like Canberra, Perth, or even rural provinces offer higher PR points and reduced competition compared to popular cities like Melbourne and Sydney. These regions are actively promoted by governments to encourage student inflow and settlement. In contrast, New Zealand maintains more uniformity across regions.
Q: How important is it to have work experience during or after the course when applying for PR?
Work experience is vital. I always advise students to take up part-time jobs while studying—not just to boost confidence but also to gain practical exposure. It’s a key differentiator. Networking through work can also lead to strong referrals, which improve job prospects and, consequently, PR outcomes.
While Indian parents may frown upon students working in cafes or similar roles, in countries like Australia or Canada, it’s the norm. Every dollar earned comes with experience, self-worth, and confidence.
Q: What are the advantages of studying vocational education or trade qualifications in Australia or New Zealand in terms of PR eligibility?
Vocational education works well for students focused on skill-building rather than academics. However, visa approval rates for vocational courses have been low, especially due to misuse in certain Indian states. Students often enrol in academic courses for visa approval and then switch to vocational ones, which has led to increased scrutiny.
Still, many vocational courses are listed in the PR-eligible skilled occupation list. Students already onshore with a master’s degree can use vocational education strategically to boost their PR points. But offshore applicants should be cautious, as visa reapplication in Australia is restricted for two years after a rejection—unlike Canada or the UK.
Q: What advice would you give to students who wish to plan their academic journey strategically for eventual PR?
I always tell students: don’t just follow counsellors pushing PR-centric courses. Yes, the skilled list is essential, but passion must guide the journey. Even my daughter and I had this conversation—if you’re not happy in your 9-to-5 job despite the money, it’s not worth it.
Many parents push children into high-demand fields like medicine for PR, but the student may be better suited for business or economics. Passion, even if the journey is longer, will eventually lead to success—and fulfilment.
Q: How do changes in immigration and labour market trends impact PR prospects for international students?
These changes matter significantly. Take the UK’s recent white paper, for instance—it’s created concern by reducing stay-back options. The PR pathway is becoming tighter. But Australia is still fairly open for the right course. However, students must avoid frequent course-switching, as it reflects poorly in PR applications.
Our generation lacked online resources. Today’s students must use official government websites, verify facts, and avoid unethical counselling. It’s a matter of long-term life planning, not just short-term migration goals.
Ritika Gupta’s insights remind us that while Permanent Residency is a valid and achievable goal, it should not overshadow one’s individual passions and strengths. Strategic planning, accurate information, practical experience, and ethical guidance are the key ingredients for a successful academic and immigration journey. In an age of shifting policies and global competition, informed decisions can make all the difference.
