Detailed Comparison of USA vs Australia For Students and Immigrants (2025)

Choosing between the USA and Australia immigration is no easy task, as both nations boast world class education, thriving job markets, and high living standards. The USA ranks 15 in the Global Innovation Index, while Australia is ranked among the top 10 countries for Best Quality of Life on the World Happiness Index.

The cost of living in cities like New York and San Francisco is significantly higher than in cost of living in Sydney and Melbourne With top - tier universities, booming industries, and diverse cultures, both countries have their own unique advantages. So USA or Australia, which one is the best choice for you? Let us compare.

USA vs Australia : Which is Best for Immigration?

Where the US economy is known to be the world's largest economies offering unmatched career opportunities, Australia is known for its higher Australia minimum wage and strong work life balance. The table below highlights the key benefits of obtaining PR in Australia vs. holding a USA H-1B visa. 

Find out why Australia offers the ultimate work-life balance? The list of benefits you get to experience working in Australia. 

Pathways to Australia and the United States of America

Below are the diverse pathways to immigration in Australia and the USA. The detailed explanations below explore the various avenues available for individuals seeking to move to these countries, offering valuable insights to help you navigate your immigration journey effectively.

Australia PR Pathways From India

The various pathways offered to Indians to immigrate to Australia and secure a PR include the following:

US Green Card From India

The various pathways offered to Indians to secure Green Card in USA include the following:

• Family-Based Green Cards: Most green cards are issued to eligible family members of current U.S. citizens and green card holders, including spouses, widows/widowers, children, parents, and siblings.

• Employment-Based Green Cards: Many immigrants come to the United States through employment-based green cards, categorized as EB-1, EB-2, EB-3, EB-4, and EB-5. These categories focus on skills, specialized training, or investment in job creation.

• Diversity Lottery Green Cards: The United States conducts a "green card lottery" that randomly awards immigrant visas to applicants from countries with low rates of immigration to the U.S.

Eligibility Requirements USA vs. Australia Immigration

Below are the contrasting eligibility criteria where we provide you an in-depth explanation of the requirements for both countries, helping you navigate the path to your desired destination.

Eligibility Requirement for Australia PR

How do you calculate your eligibility to Australia PR pathways? We have mentioned the detailed Australia PR requirements for Indians below, which encompass: 

• Minimum Points: To be eligible, you must score a minimum of 65 points on the Points Grid.
• Language Proficiency: Applicants are required to demonstrate proficiency in the English language.
• Age Requirement: You should be below the age of 45 to qualify for Australian citizenship.
• Skills Assessment: Authorities will conduct a skills assessment based on your work and educational background.
• Nominated Occupation: Ensure that your occupation is listed on Australia's Demand List.
• Medical and Character Status: Lastly, you must have a clean bill of health and a positive character status.

Eligibility Requirement for US Immigration

How do you calculate your eligibility to US immigration pathways? We have listed below some pointers for determining your eligibility for US immigration

• Background Check: Applicants may need to undergo a background check, which could involve providing police reports from previous places of residence and responding to inquiries about prior convictions.

• Medical Examination: A medical examination is required, including questions regarding mental health, substance use history, and any communicable diseases.

• Financial Support Affidavit: Applicants must obtain an affidavit of financial support from an individual who will ensure they do not face financial hardship upon arrival in the United States. Typically, the sponsoring relative also serves as the financial sponsor. Alternatively, a separate "joint sponsor" can commit to providing support as well.

Documentation Requirements for Australia and USA Visa

Discover the essential immigration documentation requirements for both visas, Australian and US visas. Below, we offer a comprehensive breakdown of the documents you'll need to navigate the visa application process successfully.

Documents Required for Australia Immigration Visa

When applying for the Australia PR process, depending on the type of visa the applicant is applying for, there is a detailed list of documents to be attached with the application. The checklist of essential documents for Australia visa applications is as follows:

• A valid passport
• Completion of the application form
• Educational Credential Assessment report
• Birth certificate
• Certificate of good character
• Proof of nomination, if applicable
• Results of the IELTS or PTE exam
• Two recent passport-sized photographs
• Spouse's skill-related documents, if necessary

Documents Required for US Immigration Visa

When applying for the US immigration visa, depending on the type of visa the applicant is applying for, there is a detailed list of documents to be attached with the application. The checklist of essential documents for US visa applications include:

• Your original passport
• All previous passports, if applicable
• A recent photograph as per specifications
• The confirmation page of the DS-160 Visa Application Form, stamped by the Visa Application Center (VAC)
• Receipt as proof of visa application fee payment
• The original Notice of Action-I-797 Visa Interview Appointment Letter

Application Process for Australian PR & US Immigration

Navigating the application processes for Australian Permanent Residency (PR) and U.S. Immigration can be complex, but here are the process and key insights to help you achieve your immigration goals in Australia or the United States.

Application Process for Australian PR

The step-by-step process for Australian immigration is outlined below, further depicted in the form of an image

• Step 1: Begin by verifying if you meet the eligibility criteria.
• Step 2: Evaluate your educational qualifications and work experience.
• Step 3: Express your interest in migrating to Australia through Skill Select. This stage will establish your eligibility score.
• Step 4: Once you receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA), proceed to submit your visa application to the Australian Department of Immigration and Border Protection.
• Step 5: If you have dependents accompanying you, provide their details when applying for the visa.
• Step 6: Apply for police verification and undergo the required medical tests following receipt of the ITA.
• Step 7: Following the submission of your visa documents, the Department of Immigration and Border Protection (DIBP) will review them. If all requirements are met, you can expect to receive your Permanent Residency (PR) visa within 3 to 5 months.

Application Process for US Visas:-

The step-by-step process for US immigration is outlined below, further depicted in the form of an image

• Step 1: Eligible individuals should commence the process by filing an I-485 form, which is the Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status.
• Step 2: Following the initial filing, USCIS will transfer your case to the National Visa Center (NVC) for pre-processing. You will receive a Welcome Letter once this stage is completed.
• Step 3: Prior to your visa interview, ensure the immigrant visa application processing fee is paid. In most cases, interview appointments are scheduled within three months upon receipt of all necessary documents.
• Step 4: A designated USCIS-approved doctor will conduct a medical examination. This includes a physical assessment, chest x-rays, a blood test for syphilis, and a review of your medical history.
• Step 5: The purpose of this interview is to validate the authenticity of your documents and the eligibility claims for the Adjustment of Status.
• Step 6: Following the interview, you will be informed of the outcome and provided with details on the issuance of your passport and visa. Additionally, you can check the status of your Green Card application on the USCIS Check Status website.

Application Costs for Australian PR & US Immigration

Embarking on your journey towards Australian Permanent Residency (PR) or U.S. Immigration comes with various costs. Understanding these financial aspects is crucial for planning your immigration pathway effectively. Let’s explore the same as detailed in the table given below

Cost of Skilled Australia PR Visas

Cost of US/Green Card Immigration:-

USA vs Australia PR Processing Times

Along with eligibility, benefits, requirements, and application processes, yet another crucial aspect to be considered is the visa processing times from India. The processing time for Australia and the US Green card applications is as follows:

Skilled Australia PR Processing Time:-

US Green Card Processing Time

As per USCIS, the processing time for a permanent residence application (Form I-485) can span from 9.3 months to 14.3 months. The duration may fluctuate based on factors such as the office location, the basis for filing, and various other considerations.

USA vs Australia: Which is best for Indian Students?

Let us compare USA and Australia in terms of factors like universities, admission requirements, part time work opportunities, cost of living, etc for international students in Australia vs USA to help you decide which is better - USA or Australia.

Quick Reads:

• Cost of Study in USA for Indian Students
• Cost of Studying In Australia For Indian Students

Australia vs USA: Latest Immigration Policy Comparison (2025)

Australia's immigration policy is shifting towards controlled skilled migration with focus on worker protection and high skilled visas whereas the USA is emphasising border security and deportation while limiting new immigration opportunities. The details to latest immigration policies in Australia vs usa is as follows:

Your Journey Begins with GetGIS: USA vs. Australia Immigration

Both the US and Australia offer excellent opportunities for work, education and quality of life, but they cater to different references. Where the US excels in job diversity, innovation, and high salaries, Australia stands out for its higher minimum salary, work life balance, safety and healthcare system. 

Immigration policies and cost of living also vary, influencing decision making of the applicant. However, ultimately, the best choice depends on individual's career goals, lifestyle preferences and financial considerations.

If you're considering pursuing higher education or immigration to Australia, the USA or any other country, GetGIS, your trusted immigration and study abroad consultant, is here to assist you. We provide a wide range of services, from visa guidance to university applications, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free process.

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