Immigration is a thrilling prospect, but it may be quite complex when considering several routes into a country or countries of interest.

We are here to educate and simplify, with a particular emphasis on the countries we have chosen to focus on since they have available programmes and a high demand for skills!

Today, we'll talk about Residency Pathways based on demand versus working permit statuses.

Direct Residency Pathway (Skilled)

By far the most attractive if relocating yourself or household abroad, both Australia and Canada currently have these available to professionals listed in demand in their respective countries.

If you qualify you will qualify for benefits such as:

Pro’s:

• Residency status
• Medical cover
• Schooling
• Rights to purchase property
• Rights to start a business
• Fastest route to a first world Citizenship status via occupation
• No job offer needed
  
  

Con’s:

• Job not included as it is not needed (this pathway allows you to secure work as a resident of Australia, you can apply for Jobs from South Africa).
  
  

For many, this may appear to be too good to be true, but these routes are meant to aid these nations' growth in key areas, and if you satisfy all requirements, what you walk away with is what millions desire but do not qualify to pursue.

Working Permit

The most often asked about status, and with good reason! A working permit is provided to persons who have been offered a contract of employment that fulfils all of the government's stringent requirements.

This is a common path, but there are a few snags to be aware of, such as the requirement for a job offer (mandatory), which is a tall order when posting your CV from a nation where the company has no idea whether you are even on par with their standard. This option is for people who assume that a job offer equals stability or who do not qualify for the residence paths straight away.

Pro’s:

• Employment
• Potential assistance with costs (Depends on employer)
  
  

Con’s:

• No medical benefit offered by the government
• No schooling
• Attached to one employer
• Risk of things not panning out and having to return to your home country
• Occupation not open to a work permit
  
  

In summary, if you want to migrate permanently, keep your benefits, and be secure, skilled/residency paths are the first thing you should look for. If your objective is to initially seek an offer of employment, you must first ensure that the occupation is available for working permits and then have a written job offer to back that up.