Immigration comparisons
Programs and tests set side by side, using only what the governments publish.
Last reviewed 2026-11-07 · Sources: Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC)
Quick answer
Each comparison lays out the published rules — requirements, scores, fees and how you apply — row by row, with a link to the official page for every row. We describe the differences; we don't recommend a program, because the right choice depends on your full circumstances.
Express Entry vs Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)
Express Entry vs PNP compared from IRCC's rules: who selects you, the 600-point nomination, the two PNP routes, service standards, current processing times and fees.
CEC vs FSW: the two main Express Entry programs
CEC vs FSW from IRCC's rules: Canadian vs foreign work experience, CLB 7 vs CLB 5 by TEER, education and ECA, proof of funds, the 67-point grid and current processing times.
IELTS vs CELPIP vs PTE Core for Express Entry
IELTS General Training vs CELPIP-General vs PTE Core for Express Entry: IRCC's full CLB 4–10 equivalency tables side by side, which versions count, and the 2-year validity rule.
Canada vs Australia skilled migration: points tests compared
Canada's Express Entry (FSW 67/100 grid, CRS out of 1,270) vs Australia's SkillSelect points test (pass mark 65) for visas 189, 190 and 491: age, English, experience and fees from official sources.
Frequently asked questions
Do these pages tell me which program to choose?+
No. They describe each program's published rules side by side. Which route fits depends on your whole situation; for advice on your own file, speak to a licensed immigration consultant (RCIC) or lawyer.
Where do the numbers come from?+
From IRCC (canada.ca), provincial government sites and, for Australia, the Department of Home Affairs. Each page lists the exact pages and the date we last checked them.