USA vs Australia immigration: A Comparative Analysis

Are you contemplating a life-changing move to a new country torn between the United States and Australia? The decision to immigrate is a significant one, with implications for your future, career, and lifestyle. In this blog, we have the solution. We'll provide you with valuable insights and comparisons to help you navigate the complex landscape of USA vs. Australian immigration.

Benefits of Permanent Residence: Australia vs. USA Immigration

The table below highlights the key benefits of obtaining permanent residence in Australia compared to holding a USA H-1B visa. These benefits encompass various aspects, including work opportunities, healthcare, and the potential path to citizenship.

Also Read: Must-Know Features of Public HealthCare in Australia That Will Tempt You to Migrate

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.

Pathways to Australia PR:-

Pathways to US Green Card:-

• 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 to Australia:-

Below are some pointers for determining your eligibility for Australian immigration

• 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 to US:-

Below are 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 for Australia Visa:-

The documentation requirements may vary depending on the type of visa you're applying for, but there are some common documents that you'll need in most cases. Here's a checklist of essential documents for Australia visa applications

• 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 for US Visa:-

Here's a checklist of essential documents for US visa applications

• 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

Explore the Top 10 Benefits of Australia PR: Embrace a Better Life

Application Processes of 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.

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.

US Visa:-

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 Involved 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 Australian Immigration:-

Cost of US/Green Card Immigration:-

Visa Processing Time: Australia vs. USA

Another key factor when considering immigration to a new country is evaluating the visa processing time. It can significantly impact your plans and preparations for the big move. Now let's explore them further, starting with the processing time for Australia and the US

Australia Processing Time:-

US Processing Time:-

As per USCIS, the processing time for a permanent residence application (Form I-485) can span from 12.5 months to 36 months. The duration may fluctuate based on factors such as the office location, the basis for filing, and various other considerations.

Immigration Policies Australia | USA

In Australian immigration policy, meeting the character requirements, as outlined in section 501 of the Migration Act 1958, is a prerequisite for obtaining a visa for Australian citizenship. Conversely, the United States immigration policy places a stronger emphasis on satisfying eligibility criteria, such as for skilled workers, individuals with extraordinary abilities, asylum seekers, and more.

Furthermore, the United States immigration policy tends to prioritize family-based immigration to a greater extent compared to Australia. In contrast, Australia's immigration policy leans towards favoring the immigration of skilled individuals over spouse and family-based immigration. These distinctions highlight the differing approaches and priorities of the two countries' immigration policies.

Your Journey Begins with GetGIS: USA vs. Australia Immigration

In conclusion, both Australia and the United States offer unique immigration opportunities, each with its advantages and requirements. The choice between the two destinations depends on individual preferences, goals, and circumstances.

If you're considering pursuing higher education or immigration to 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.