Canada’s Express Entry vs. UK Skilled Worker Visa: Comparison
11. October 2025
Admin
Canada’s Express Entry vs. UK Skilled Worker Visa: Comparison
Choosing between Canada’s Express Entry and the UK Skilled Worker Visa can be challenging for professionals seeking to live and work abroad. Both programs offer excellent career opportunities, but they differ in eligibility, process, cost, and residency benefits. Let’s break down the key comparisons to help you make an informed decision.
Quick Fact: Both countries actively recruit skilled foreign workers, but Canada focuses on permanent migration, while the UK system is primarily employment-based and employer-sponsored.
1. Program Type and Goal
Canada’s Express Entry is a point-based immigration system designed for permanent residency (PR). It allows candidates to apply directly to live and work in Canada as permanent residents.
In contrast, the UK Skilled Worker Visa is a temporary work visa tied to a specific employer and job offer. It can lead to permanent settlement after five years of continuous work.
2. Eligibility Criteria
Canada: Applicants are assessed based on age, education, work experience, English/French proficiency, and adaptability. A minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score is required for selection.
UK: Applicants must have a job offer from an approved UK employer, meet skill and salary thresholds, and demonstrate English proficiency.
3. Processing Time
Express Entry processing takes around 6 to 9 months after receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA).
The UK Skilled Worker Visa, however, is processed much faster — typically within 3 to 8 weeks once sponsorship and documentation are complete.
4. Pathway to Permanent Residency
Canada’s Express Entry grants immediate PR status, allowing you to live, study, and work anywhere in Canada from day one.
The UK Skilled Worker Visa offers a pathway to PR (Indefinite Leave to Remain) after 5 years of full-time employment with consistent residency and tax records.
5. Job Flexibility
Express Entry holders are not tied to a specific employer — they can switch jobs or cities freely.
UK Skilled Worker Visa holders, on the other hand, need to apply for a new visa if changing employers or job roles outside their original sponsorship.
6. Cost Comparison
Canada’s application fees (including PR processing and biometrics) typically cost between $1,500–$2,000 CAD.
The UK Skilled Worker Visa ranges from £719–£1,500 depending on job type and duration, plus an annual Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS).
7. Family Sponsorship and Dependents
Both programs allow you to include your spouse and dependent children. However, in Canada, dependents receive PR status immediately. In the UK, dependents get temporary stay linked to the main applicant’s visa duration.
8. Long-Term Benefits
Canada offers free healthcare, PR benefits, and an easier path to citizenship within 3–5 years.
The UK offers world-class job experience, global exposure, and access to top-tier education for dependents — but citizenship requires 6+ years of stay.
Conclusion
If your goal is permanent settlement and long-term stability, Canada’s Express Entry is the better option.
If you prefer faster entry and short-term career opportunities, the UK Skilled Worker Visa provides an excellent route — especially for healthcare and tech professionals.
Both programs offer unique advantages depending on your goals, qualifications, and preferred lifestyle.
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