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Choosing between Canada and Australia for immigration would be difficult! Both of these locations have fantastic work prospects. They’re like mirror images.
Both nations have comparable educational standards. In terms of education, Canada has a tiny advantage over Australia. Canadian educational institutions are less expensive than Australian schools, colleges, and universities.
This blog provides you with a greater understanding of immigration options, the cost of living, opportunities, and several other critical determining elements to assist you in making a decision. Continue reading.
Top 10 Immigration Differences Between Canada and Australia in 2024
Canada vs. Australian Immigration: A Quick Comparison
| Canada | Australia |
| Flexible Immigration Policies for Skilled Workers | Access to New Zealand |
| Good Labour Market | Public Education |
| Low-Cost Accommodation | Better Economy |
| Ideal Family Environments | Organized Immigration Procedure |
| Lower Interest Rate | PR Score is Lower Than the Canada |
| Easy PR System | Higher Salary for Skilled Workers |
» Which country is better for permanent residence: Canada or Australia?
| Canada | Australia | |
|---|---|---|
| Dollar Value | 1 USD= 1.28 CAD | 1 USD= 1.30 AUD |
| Study | To study in Canada you will need between CAD 20,000 to CAD 30,000. | It will cost you around AUD 20,000 to AUD 37,000. |
| Job Opportunities | There are many job opportunities for IT and engineering professionals. | There are combined job opportunities in New Zealand and Australia. |
| Cost of Living | It will cost you around CAD 2,730 per month for a single person. | AUD 2,835 for a single person per month. |
| Healthcare | Free-of-cost healthcare services for international students. | “Medicare” health insurance for international students. |
| PR Process | Canada’s PR process is easier with programs like FSWP, CEC, and PNP. | Australia’s PR process is much more time-consuming than Canada’s. And the success rate is also less. |
| Public Benefits | Access to CERB (Canada Emergency Response Benefit). | Free transportation across the country for international students. |
» Canada Vs. Australia: A General Comparison
| Aspects | Canada | Australia |
|---|---|---|
| Cars | Cars are relatively cheaper in Canada. | Cars in Australia might be expensive, especially in Melbourne or Sydney. |
| Interest Rate | Banking interest rates are low. | The banking interest rate is comparatively higher. |
| Labour | Canada has a diversified labour market. | The diversification is not decent enough in Australia. |
| Weather | The weather in Canada can be quite cold. | The weather in Australia stays pretty warm and favourable. |
| Privileges and Rights | The rights and privileges of immigrants are well-constructed in Canada. | It’s not encouraging for the migrants. |
| Liveable Aspects | It is ideal for families. | It is perfect for active workers. |
| Better Community | Slightly more tolerant of new immigrants. | Less open-minded in the case of migrants. |
| Geographical Assets | Filled with beautiful mountains. | It has a lot of lakes, seas, etc. |
» Job Opportunities in Canada & Australia
Working in Canada
Which country is better for permanent residence: Canada or Australia? Canada is the world’s 10th largest economy, with a GDP of $1.7 trillion. Jobs in technology are in great demand in Canada so much so that both Ontario and British Columbia have instituted tech-specific draws aimed at highly talented and experienced foreign technology experts.
Canada In-Demand Jobs in 2024
| In-Demand Jobs | Average Salary (CAD) |
| Sales Associate | $50,255 |
| Driver | $44,836 |
| Receptionist | $31,304 |
| Welder | $40,927 |
| Web Developer | $62,522 |
| Business Development Manager | $85,000 |
| General Labourer | $29,250 |
| Project Manager | $90,000 |
| Heavy-Duty Mechanic | $70,000 |
| Merchandiser | $48,610 |
Working in Australia
Over the past decade, Australia’s economy has grown well. This has led to tremendous economic growth, as well as low unemployment, inflation, and interest rates. Australia has a dynamic private sector and an open and competitive economy.
Australia In-Demand Jobs 2024
| In-Demand Jobs | Average Salary (AUD) |
| Registered Nurses | $56,000 |
| Software & Applications Programmer | $70,365 |
| Electricians | $82,875 |
| Construction Managers | $91,084 |
| Motor Mechanics | $65,466 |
| University Lecturers | $120,956 |
| Management Consultants | $67,274 |
| General Practitioners & Resident Medical Officers | $83,000 |
| Civil Engineering Professionals | $50,798 |
| Mechanical & Production Engineers | $107,369 |
The key takeaway is that countries with strong economies, such as Canada and Australia, offer equal work possibilities to immigrants.
» Job Security in Canada & Australia
Canada Job Security
Employee retention in Canada is high. However, employment stability cannot be assured. In Canada, about 85% of professionals with stable work get pensions. Furthermore, 94% of workers were found to have been paid even while they were sick.
Job Security in Australia
Workers in Australia have a high level of self-assessed job security. Across the country, job retention averages about 89%. A substantial proportion of employees believe they will be able to keep their employment in the following year.
The key takeaway is that Australia outperforms Canada in terms of employment stability.
» Taxation in Canada & Australia
Canada
Canada has a higher average tax rate of 28%. The average annual take-home pay for Canadian employees is around $35,500. Taxes generally make a significant impact. The yearly salary after taxes is what you receive.
Australia
The average tax rate in Australia is 23.6%. The country’s progressive tax rate means that you pay more tax as your income rises. The tax-free level is $18,200. There is no tax-free threshold for foreign residents in Australia.
The key takeaway is that you will have to pay less income tax in Australia than you would in Canada.
» Cost of Living in Canada & Australia
Canada
Canada has generous government benefits in terms of food security and health care. Furthermore, as compared to Australia, the cost of living is somewhat cheaper. A single person would need $1,650 – $2,500 a month, while a family would need $5,158.
Australia
Life in Australia is costly, it is the 16th most expensive cost of living country in the world. Furthermore, the cost of life in this island country varies by area. Sydney has the highest cost of living, followed by Melbourne, Perth, Canberra, and Brisbane.
The Average Cost of Living in Canada & Australia PR
| Commodity | Canada (CAD/INR) (Approximately) | Australia (AUD/INR) (Approximately) |
|---|---|---|
| Grocery | 76 (INR 4,200) | 71 (INR 3,800) |
| Phone and Internet | 127 (INR 7,090) | 120 (INR 6,415) |
| Fuel Cost | 1.25 (INR 70) | 1.48 (INR 79.12) |
| Public Transport (monthly) | 95 (INR 5,300) | 150 (INR 8020) |
| Fundamental Utilities | 149 (INR 8,300) | 207 (INR 11070) |
| House Rent – 1 to 3 BHK | 1300 – 2000 (INR 72,500 – INR 1,11,160) | 1700 – 2700 (INR 90,900 – INR 1,44,350) |
| Pre-School | 952 (INR 53,110) | 1800 (INR 96,200) |
| Fitness Club | 49 (INR 2,730) | 65 (INR 3,474) |
The main takeaway is that life in Australia is expensive! On this front, you have the option of selecting Canada.
» Healthcare Facilities in Canada & Australia
Canada
In Canada, basic health care is provided at no cost. It is provided by Medicare. The primary need for Medicare is health insurance coverage. Healthcare prices are considerably reduced in this area. The healthcare system in Canada is more compassionate.
Australia
Australia has a well-developed healthcare system. When you become a permanent resident, you will be eligible for Medicare. Many Australians, however, opt to get private health insurance to cover the expenses of dental and specialized treatment.
Key Takeaway: Both Canada and Australia give comprehensive healthcare coverage to permanent residents who are immigrants.
» Cost of Education in Canada & Australia
Canada
When compared to other nations, education in Canada is more cheap. Children of immigrants in Canada are entitled to free public education until the age of 16 or 18. You may also send your children to private Canadian schools, which charge tuition ranging from $6,135 to $10,733 per year.
Australia
Immigrants in Australia have the option of attending either government or non-government schools. For permanent residents and Australian citizens, government schools are largely free. Some institutions, however, may impose a gift fee or ‘voluntary contribution’ ranging from $44 to $730.
The key takeaway is that Australia is ahead of Canada in terms of education costs.
» Scope of Getting Citizenship
Canada
Citizenship is possible once you have physically resided in Canada for three years (1,460 days) as a PR. However, you must take a citizenship exam and file your tax reports. If you want to live in Canada permanently, Canada is a fantastic location to start.
Australia
After you have resided in Australia as a temporary or permanent resident, you can seek citizenship. A cumulative total of three of the previous four years is required. To be qualified, you may also need to have a track record of employment.
Key Takeaway: Both Canada and Australia guarantee you a shot at citizenship after three years, subject to a few restrictions.
» Average Working Hours in Canada & Australia
Canada Working Hours
The usual work hours for federal employees in Canada are 8 hours each day. This amounts to 40 hours each week, or 2086 hours per year.
Working Hours in Australia
Employees in Australia work an average of 7.6 hours every day. It amounts to 38 hours each week, or 1797 hours per year.
The key takeaway is that you will eventually have more hours to spend with your loved ones in Australia than in Canada.
Canada vs Australia Immigration For Permanent Residency
Now that you have a general understanding of how to settle in both nations, let us look at the immigration paths, eligibility requirements, documents, and application procedure for various visa kinds.
Let’s look at the parallels and variations between the visa process for Permanent Resident Status in Canada and Australia.
» Comparison of Eligibility Criteria for PR in Canada and Australia
| Canada PR | Australia PR |
| The principal applicant must be over the age of 18. | The immigrants must be under the age of 45. |
| At least 67 points are required. | The selection exam should provide a score of 65. |
| Your occupation is on the Canada Demand List. | – |
| You need to have a 12-month work experience | You must have prior experience with ROL, MLTSSL, or STSOL. |
| You must have a college diploma. | You would need an internationally recognized educational degree. |
| IELTS Test Results | Immigrants should clear the IELTS language exam with passing marks |
| The aspirant must supply fund-related documentation. | – |
| You must have a good CRS score. | – |
| Employer recommendation letter | – |
| You have not applied for refuge. | You should choose a visa type that is appropriate for your PR program. |
| You have a family member or relative in Canada. | You must be physically and psychologically healthy. |
» Documents Required for Canada & Australia PR
The documents required for Canada PR & Australia PR are:
| Canada PR | Australia PR |
| Educational credential papers | Educational certificates |
| Proofs of adequate income source | Evidence of settlement fund |
| Result of language assessment | English proficiency test results |
| Sponsorship or referral letter | Travel documents |
| Skill Assessment Report | – |
| Recommendation letter | Certificates of work experience |
| Personal identification document | Personal identification document |
| Police clearance certificate | Police clearance certificate |
| Valid passport | Valid passport |
| Medical Certificate | Medical Certificate |
» The 8-Step Application Process for Canada & Australia PR
| Canada PR Application Process | Australian PR Application Process |
| 1st Step: You should complete your ECA. | 1st Step: Verify your eligibility criteria. |
| 2nd Step: Attain a passing score in IELTS. | 2nd Step: Keep documents ready |
| 3rd Step: Create an Express Entry profile online. | 3rd Step: In SkillSelect, you may update or create an EOI. |
| 4th Step: A medical and police clearance certificate is required. | 4th Step: Submit a Registration of Interest |
| 5th Step: You may apply for the Provincial Nomination Program. | 5th Step: Apply for visa nomination, |
| 6th Step 6: Acquire your ITA (Invitation to Apply). | 6th Step: Following your nomination, you will be sent a Skill Select invitation to apply. |
| 7th Step: Get your PR status confirmation. | 7th Step: Submit your visa application to the Department of Home Affairs within 60 days |
| 8th Step: Bring your passport and any other documents required for the visa stamping process. | 8th Step: Receive your visa |
» Immigration Policies for Canada & Australia
| Factors | Canada Immigration | Australian Immigration | Additional Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| Family Status | Available | Available | Dependents can go with the main candidate. |
| Citizen Benefits | Yes | Yes | Free education, social security services, free healthcare facilities, etc. |
| Entire Process Period | 80% of candidates in six months | 75% aspirants in eight months | Might vary in some cases |
| Total Demand List | 300 occupations | 200 occupations | – |
| Visa Expenses | CAD 1325 (around 70,000 INR) | AUD 4,100 (around INR 2,20,00) | – |
| Visa Validity | 5 years | 5 years | – |
| Job Opportunities | High | High | – |
» Key Differences in the Point-based Immigration System
Here are all the factors that add points to your PR:
| Factors | Canada | Australia |
|---|---|---|
| Age | 12 | 30 |
| Education | 25 | 25 |
| Regional Work Experience | 10 | 20 |
| Foreign Working Experience | 15 | 15 |
| Language | 28 | 20 |
| Other Factors | 10 | 20 |
| Total Passing Score | 100 | 130 |
» Benefits of having a PR Card: Canada vs Australia
The following is a comparison of the advantages of possessing a PR card in Canada Vs. Australia.
| Canada PR Benefits | Australia PR Benefits |
|---|---|
| Children’s education is provided at a Free cost. | Applicants are granted full employment rights in Australia and New Zealand. |
| Accessibility to the United States of America | Right to apply for citizenship and PR to Australia |
| Both applicants can get a job under ‘family status’ | Access to different student loans and personal loans |
| A visa of 5-year with several entries | Benefits of social security |
| Opportunity to change jobs at will | Medicare health coverage |
| Eligibility to become a Canadian citizen | Eligibility for FHOG (First Home Owner Grant) |
| Protection under Canadian Immigration Rights and Freedoms | Freedom to attain higher education |
| Free social and health provisions for the family | The privilege of sponsoring relatives |
Other FAQs
1. What are the Types of Canada & Australia Visas?
- Student Visa
- Express Entry Program Visa
- Work Visa
- Visitor Visa
- Business Immigrant Visa
- Permanent Residence Visa
2. For an Indian IT professional, which country is better to live in, Canada or Australia?
For an Indian IT professional, Canada would be a better country to live in.
3. What are the different options available for immigrating to Canada?
Different options available for immigrating to Canada are
- Quebec immigration.
- Provincial Economic Class.
- Family Class Sponsorship.
- Federal Economic Class.
- Business Immigration.
- Transitional Immigration
Conclusion
We hope that this blog has helped you understand the similarities and differences between immigration to Canada and immigration to Australia. Here’s a basic rundown of the situation:
| Deciding Factor | Canada PR | Australia PR |
|---|---|---|
| Job Opportunities | Limited Options | Limited Options |
| Average Working Hours | 2,086 Hours/Year | 1,797 Hours/Year |
| Job Security | Reliable | Reliable |
| Average Salary | $38,805 – $50,213 | $37,129 – $47,986 |
| Average Tax | 28% | 23.6% |
| Cost of Living | $1,650 – $2,500 Per Month | $1,666 – $2,835 Per Month |
| Healthcare | Medicare Coverage (Free or Low-Cost) | Medicare Coverage (Free or Low-Cost) |
| Cost of Education | $6,135 – $10,733 Per Year | $7,800 – $30,000 per year |
| Scope for Citizenship | After 3 Years | After 4 Years |
Applying for permanent residency in Canada is quite simple, and the visa processing period is shorter than in Australia. It is also less expensive than an Australian visa. Nonetheless, Australia has a better wage scale than Canada.
So, make your decision and make it wisely.
If you have any questions, please contact one of our immigration consultants. Our team of professionals will gladly assist you with your PR visa application.
