If you’re deciding where to study abroad this 2025, there are many factors to take into consideration. For instance, you need to look into work opportunities, school program fees, study program restrictions, cost of living, and the current pathways to permanent residency (PR).
To help you choose among Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and Ireland – here’s a summary of all the important factors you need to consider before getting ready to apply for a student visa.
CANADA
Canada is one of the most popular study abroad options for Filipinos because of its many immigration pathways, allowing international students to pursue better opportunities in the country.
Not only that, but because there is a significant Filipino community in Canada, incoming Filipino students are sure to find a familiar and friendly face.
Length of Study | 2 years |
Annual Tuition Estimate | CAD 15,000–40,000 |
Student Visa Processing Time | 8–14 weeks |
Study Program Restrictions | Must enroll in a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) Must have a validated Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL) |
Work Hours on a Study Permit | 24 hours/week during studies 40+ hours during school breaks |
Post-Graduate Work Permit (PGWP) | Up to 3 years *depending on eligibility and study program’s length |
Permanent Residency (PR) Pathways | Express Entry Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) Canadian Experience Class (CEC) |
Canada offers a lower cost for study permit applications (CAD 150) and financial support requirements, but they will require a Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL) for school admission. In addition, there is a specific criteria to be met to be eligible for a Post-Graduate Work permit.
AUSTRALIA
Australia is another popular study destination for Filipinos given its close proximity to Southeast Asia. Australia also provides an abundance of opportunities for those in healthcare, engineering, and technology – sectors where many Filipinos excel.
Length of Study | 2-3 years |
Annual Tuition Estimate | AUD 20,000–45,000 |
Student Visa Processing Time | 3–6 weeks |
Study Program Restrictions | Must enroll in a CRICOS-listed provider |
Work Hours on a Study Permit | 20 hours/week during studies 40+ hours during school breaks |
Post-Graduate Work Permit (PGWP) | 2–3 years *depending on eligibility and study location |
Permanent Residency (PR) Pathways | General Skilled Migration (GSM) visa Regional visas |
Australia offers lower language testing requirements and no permit caps but will require a Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) declaration and Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC). It also introduced certain restrictions on the post-study work permit, so you have to review this to ensure you remain eligible.
NEW ZEALAND
New Zealand is the perfect study destination if you would like to immerse in your studies, the community, and its extraordinary natural environment. With labor shortages in various industries, New Zealand awards immigration points to those who complete their studies and contribute to the labor market.
Length of Study | 1-2 years |
Annual Tuition Estimate | NZD 20,000–40,000 |
Student Visa Processing Time | 4–6 weeks |
Study Program Restrictions | Must enroll in an NZQA-approved institution |
Work Hours on a Study Permit | 20 hours/week during studies 40+ hours during school breaks |
Post-Graduate Work Permit (PGWP) | 1–3 years *depending on eligibility and study location |
Permanent Residency (PR) Pathways | Green List Pathway – Straight to Residence – Work to Residence Skilled Migrant Category pathways. |
New Zealand offers direct PR pathways for Green List professions but there are program quotas in place.
IRELAND
Ireland is an emerging study abroad destination for Filipinos who are looking for the European experience. With its rapidly growing tech and pharmaceutical industries, Ireland offers unique opportunities, especially for those in the STEM fields.
Length of Study | 1-3 years |
Annual Tuition Estimate | EUR 10,000–25,000 |
Student Visa Processing Time | 4–8 weeks |
Study Program Restrictions | Must enroll in an Interim List of Eligible Programmes (ILEP) institution |
Work Hours on a Study Permit | 20 hours/week during studies 40+ hours during school breaks |
Post-Graduate Work Permit (PGWP) | 1–2 years under the Third Level Graduate Scheme *depending on eligibility |
Permanent Residency (PR) Pathways | Critical Skills Employment Permit General Employment Permit after work experience |
Ireland offers a straightforward work-to-residency transition but there is a strict eligibility criteria for Critical Skills permits.
In Conclusion
Each country offers advantages for aspiring Filipino international students. Canada is still the best country if you are looking for long-term residency options. Australia provides an international experience that is closer to home. New Zealand provides an integrated post-study work experience. And Ireland presents new and exciting opportunities in its growing industries.
Carefully assess your personal goals, capacities, and career objectives to see which country offers you the most potential.
Your Study Abroad and Immigration Partner
Enhance Visa has helped tens of thousands of Filipinos move to their country of choice, ensuring that their dreams and goals of studying, working, and immigrating abroad are fulfilled. If this is what you long for, let us be your guide.
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