Australia or Canada: Which is Best for Immigration for Students and Professionals in 2025?

Australia or Canada, which is best for immigration? Are you also struck with choosing between the top immigrant destination countries to immigrate to? To better understand which is your best fit (Canada or Australia), let's briefly compare Australia vs Canada immigration for Indians, two countries renowned for their immigration opportunities.

When evaluating factors such as citizenship requirements, cost of living, population, economy, and cultural appeal, a clearer picture emerges to help determine which country is better for your immigration.

Australia or Canada: Which is Best for Immigration?

To explore the best immigration destination, it is important to analyze the pros and cons of living in Australia vs Canada. By focusing on key factors and circumstances, we can compare the main advantages and disadvantages of these countries for immigration.

1. Canada vs Australia Immigration Process

Canada has a long and established process for obtaining residency, while Australia has a more streamlined and fast-paced system.

Australia PR has an initial application process of four months, which can be shortened if you have close family members already living in the country. You will also need to have good language skills and pass a health check.

In Canada, you need only to provide proof of your income and residency status in your home country, as well as some documentation of your qualifications. The Canada PR application process takes about two months on average, with a final decision made within six months.

2. Ease of Getting Citizenship in Australia vs Canada

Canada and Australia have distinct immigration policies. Canada is known for its welcoming attitude towards immigrants, while Australia is stricter in terms of obtaining citizenship.

In Canadian citizenship for Indians can be obtained through naturalization, which requires meeting specific criteria like having a good record and spending a certain time in the country. On the other hand, Australia grants citizenship based on residency, with a minimum requirement of being an Australian resident for at least five years.

Canada has a more lenient approach to citizenship, with basic knowledge of English and Canadian history as the main qualifications. In contrast, Australia has more stringent requirements, including passing a comprehensive test that assesses cultural knowledge and understanding of Australian society. The below table clearly states the differences between Canada vs Australia citizenship for Indians.

3. Canada or Australia: Which is Better for Indian Students

The debate between Canada and Australia has been going on for years now. Though both countries have their pros and cons, which one is better for immigration? Here’s a look at the key factors:

a. Canada PR

When it comes to immigration, Canada has a lot to offer. If we have detailed look at pros and cons of moving to Canada, first of all, you must note that Canada is one of the most welcoming countries and is often considered one of the most multicultural countries in the world. This means that people from all over the world can find a home here. 

Additionally, Canada has a strong economy and a high standard of living. So, whether you’re looking for a job or want to start your own business, you should be able to find success in Canada. In addition, Canada offers great healthcare and educational opportunities. So, whether you want to study or work in Canada, you should be able to find what you’re looking for.

b. Australia PR

On the other hand, the pros and cons of living in Australia are quite competitve to Canada. Australia has strict policies that are often difficult to qualify for. Additionally, Australia is also expensive country compared to Canada to live in.

So, if you’re looking to move to Australia, you’ll need to be prepared to make substantial financial sacrifices. According to reports, the average salary in Australia is higher than in many other countries around the world, which could significantly support your life in Australia.

4. Australia vs Canada PR Eligibility for Family Members

There are some important differences between Canada PR and Australia PR when it comes to permanent resident eligibility. For example, Canada allows for a more flexible definition of family members.

This means that a person can be considered a family member even if they don't live with the family members. In contrast, Australia requires that a person be living in close proximity to family members to be considered a family member.

• In Canada, you must be a permanent resident to sponsor a family member for immigration. This means that you must have been living in Canada for at least 5 years and have a strong connection to Canada.
• In Australia, you need only to be a permanent resident for three years to sponsor a family member for immigration. This means that you can come to Australia without having any ties to Canada and still be able to sponsor your family members for immigration.

5. Australia vs Canada PR Visa Processing Time

According to the Canada Border Services Agency, the average processing time for a Canada PR visa is 190 days. In comparison, the processing time for an Australian PR visa is only 61 days. The main difference between the two countries is that Canada requires a more comprehensive application process.

This includes submitting documents such as police reports and income tax returns. On the other hand, Australia does not require any documentation other than your passport and visa application.

6. Canada vs Australia Immigration Points System

Canada and Australia have different points systems for immigration. PR Points System in Canada is based on skills and family ties while Australia's points system is based on the number of years an individual has lived in a country. Both the countries points systems with factors are outlined below:

7. Canada vs Australia Cost of Living

Canada is often considered to be a more affordable country to live in, with some comparing it to places like the United Kingdom and Sweden. This is because Cost of Living in Canada is lower as compared to Cost of living in Australia. For example, the cost of groceries is typically lower in Canada, while housing is also less expensive on average.

Additionally, healthcare is generally more affordable in Canada as well. However, there are a few things to keep in mind when comparing the two countries – namely that wages are higher in Australia and that the cost of living is not always equal across the board.

8. Taxation System in Australia vs Canada

Australia and Canada both have highly developed economies and offer many opportunities for skilled immigrants. Both of these countries follow a progressive tax system which means that high taxes will be paid on high income. However, there are some important differences between Canada vs Australia cost of living including taxation. These differences are as follows.

Are you aware of the latest Canada Tax Rules for Migrants? Learn what has changes in the new tax rules for residents of Canada vs India.

9. Healthcare Facilities in Australia vs Canada

There are many factors to consider when deciding which country is better for immigration, and one of those is the healthcare system. The Australia’s public healthcare system is called Medicare, and it is free for all Australian residents. While the Canada public healthcare system is called provincial health insurance, and it varies from province to province.

10. Job Security in Australia vs Canada

There are many reasons why Australia is a great choice for immigration, but one of the most important is job security. In Australia, you can be sure that you will have a stable job and a good income. The Australian economy is strong and growing, and there are plenty of opportunities for skilled workers.

Canada is the clear winner. The Canadian economy is currently doing very well, with low unemployment and strong growth. This means that there are plenty of jobs available, and companies are often willing to invest in their employees by offering training and development opportunities

Average Working Hours in Australia vs Canada

The average working hours in Australi are typically around 38 hours per week. This can vary somewhat depending on the industry you work in, but generally speaking, the average full-time worker in Australia works 31 hours per week.

In Canada, the average working week is around 40 hours. This can vary depending on the province or territory you live in and the type of job you have. For example, people who work in the manufacturing and construction industries typically work longer hours than those in the service sector.

Documents Required for Canada vs Australia Immigration

When planing to immigrate there is list of documents required For Canada PR or Australia immigration which include a valid passport, a completed application form, and supporting documents such as proof of financial means and language proficiency. The complete list of documents needed include-

• Medical exams
• Proof of funds
• Birth certificate
• Use of a representative form
• Police Clearance Certificate
• Common-law union form
• Marriage certificate
• Passport
• Australian Visa Form
• Paid Visa Fee
• One Identity Picture
• National Identity Card
• Evidence of Financial Means

Learn how to get police clearance certificate from local police station in India, from requirements to detailed process in this updated article.

Is Australia more expensive than Canada?

When it comes to the cost of living, Canada is generally more expensive than Australia. For example, rent in Vancouver, Canada is $2,500 Canadian, while the same apartment in Sydney, Australia costs $1,800 Australian. However, Australia has a larger population and is therefore considered more affordable overall.

Both countries have strong economies but Canada's high cost of living may make it less appealing to potential immigrants compared to Australia.

Australia is known for its warm climate and beautiful beaches, making it an attractive choice for many. Canada, on the other hand, offers vibrant and cosmopolitan cities. If you prioritize a lower cost of living and a friendly atmosphere, Australia might be the better choice. However, if you value vibrant cities and don't mind the colder climate, Canada is worth considering.

Quick Reads:

1. Australia: 
   1. Cost of Living in Sydney
   2. Cost of Living in Melbourne
   3. Cost of Living in Perth
   4. Cost of Living in Adelaide
   5. Cost of Living in Brisbane
2. Canada:
   1. Cost of Living in Calgary
   2. Cost of Living in Toronto
   3. Cost of Living in Montreal 
   4. Cost of Living in Vancouver 
   5. Cost of Living in New Brunswick
   6. Cost of Living Saskatchewan
   7. Cost of Living Alberta
   8. Cost of Living in Nova Scotia

Watch This Quick Comparison of Canada vs Australia PR

Confused about whether to choose Canada or Australia for your immigration plans? Check out this quick YouTube Short that summarizes the key differences in just 60 seconds!

Australia or Canada! Make Your Immigration Journey Smooth Through GetGIS!

In conclusion, you must consider your situation when choosing between Canada and Australia as permanent residence countries. Most of the time, you should choose the country where you have more ties. If you are not sure which country is right for you then it is best to consult with a professional immigration consultant like GetGIS who will help guide you through this process so that you end up with the right information at hand.

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