If you are planning to migrate or settle overseas, Australia or Canada are favorite migration destinations for Indian applicants. Canada and Australia select skilled migrants using points system. Both countries offer high quality of life and a high standard of living. It is thus advisable to compare the two, before taking a decision.
Visa programs under Subclass 189/190/489 are for skilled workers intending to migrate to Australia. While Subclass 189 is a skilled independent – permanent visa, Subclass 190 is a skilled nominated – permanent visa and subclass 489 is a skilled regional – provisional visa. A visa subclass has to be chosen based on the skills, requirements and eligibility of the applicant. It is necessary for applicants to qualify in the points-based test. The points for these subclasses are calculated on various factors such as English language proficiency, age, educational qualifications, etc.
Canada Express Entry Program was launched in January 2015 by Citizenship and Immigration Canada for skilled labour to enter Canada and join its workforce. Invitations for this program are open throughout the year. Since it has no restrictions, any number of people can apply through this program. Persons with experience in any field of work, skill or professional background can put their profile in the pool. The Federal and Provincial governments of Canada then choose eligible applicants.
| Country | Canada | Australia | Category | Skilled Migration | Skilled Migrant (Permanent Residency) |
|---|---|---|
| Process time | 6-12 months | 9-12 month |
| Points required | 67 | 60 |
| Passport & Citizenship | After 3 years in Canada | After 4 years in Australia |
| English Language | IELTS mandatory | IELTS/PTE/TOEFL is acceptable depending on your occupation. |
| Cost of Living | Most expensive cities are Vancouver, Toronto and Montreal followed by Calgary and Ottawa . | Sydney ,Melbourne and Perth are the most expensive cities, followed by Canberra and Adelaide |
| Average weekly earnings (2014 converted to USD) | USD 858 per week | USD 1037 per week |
| Ethnic Group | European ,Amerindian and other mixed background | White, Asian,Aboriginal and others |
| Culture | Diverse and Multicultural | Western Culture derived from Britain . Contemporary Australia has been shaped by multi-ethnic migration . |
| Climate | Varies based on geography. Daytime summer temperatures can rise to 35°C , while lows of -25°C in winter. Summers can be hot and dry on the prairies, humid in central parts, and milder on the coasts.In winter, temperatures fall below freezing point . | Different climate zones. The northern parts have tropical climate, hot and humid in the summer, warm and dry in the winter. Southern parts have temperate climate. Are cooler with mild summers and rainy winters. |