Choosing to migrate to a new country involves considering various factors to determine the best place to live that may fulfill your unique needs and lifestyle.
This is where you can learn more about whether Australia or Canada is better for immigration.
Both Australia and Canada are prominent countries in their respective regions, with their own unique cultures and identities. Australia is known for its beautiful beaches, diverse wildlife, and outdoor lifestyle, while Canada is known for its vast wilderness, friendly people, and reputation as a progressive, inclusive society.
If you need clarification about which is a better place to migrate to, Australia or Canada, this blog post is for you.
Consider a few possibilities if you are planning on migrating to a new country. For this purpose, you should compare two countries, Australia and Canada, before picking one as a new permanent destination.
Let’s have a look at the general comparison between Australia and Canada before moving on to the key differences between Australia and Canada regarding immigration in 2024.
Australia vs. Canada: A General Comparison
Let’s start with the basics.
Canada, located in the northern hemisphere, has a population of 38.7 million people, which is approximately 23% of the total population in the world. Canada passes over six different time zones, between UTC -2:30 and UTC -7. Its currency is the Canadian dollar (CAD), which is very strong, with 1 US dollar equivalent to 1.32 CAD. The Canadian passport is considered the 8th most powerful in the world, gives you access to 172 countries out of 195.
Meanwhile, Australia has over 26.3 million people, with almost 30% being born overseas. It is located in the southeastern hemisphere, spanning five different time zones between UTC +8 and UTC +10:30. The Australian dollar (AUD) is almost as strong as the Canadian dollar, at 1.46 AUD to 1 US dollar. Comparatively, the Australian passport is ranked 7th globally, allows Australian passport holders to access 185 countries visa-free.
Let’s have a look at some general comparisons between Australia and Canada:
| Categories | Australia | Canada |
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Moving forwards let’s now delve into the key differences between these two remarkable countries, Australia and Canada, to choose any of them for immigration in 2024.
Top Differences between Australia and Canada
Here is a comparison of several critical factors in Australian vs. Canadian immigration in 2024.
Immigration Programs: Australia vs. Canada
Before deciding where to migrate and settle permanently, it is essential to examine the major differences between Australia’s and Canada’s immigration programs. Thoroughly compare these programs to determine which one will offer better options for your immigration needs and migration goals.
Australia
The Australian Government has introduced the following immigration programs to allow internationals to migrate, stay, work, and study in different areas of Australia:
- General Skilled Migration (GSM) Subclass 189: For overseas skilled workers who do not require sponsorship by an employer, state, or family member
- Skilled Nominated Visa (subclass 190): For skilled individuals who are nominated by an Australian state or territory to address the skill shortage in Australia.
- Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa (subclass 491): For skilled internationals nominated by a state or territory or sponsored by an eligible family member to live and work in regional areas of Australia.
- Temporary Skill Shortage Visa (subclass 482): This stream allows employers to nominate skilled workers worldwide to fill labor shortages.
- Employer Nomination Scheme (subclass 186): For skilled workers whose employer nominated them for permanent residency in Australia.
- Study Visa Australia (Subclass 500): This is for international students who wish to enroll in educational institutions for their undergraduate or postgraduate studies in Australia.
Canada
Canada offers the following visa streams for internationals to immigrate and live in Canada:
- Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP): For skilled workers with foreign work experience who want to migrate to Canada permanently.
- Canadian Experience Class (CEC): This class is for only skilled workers with Canadian work experience.
- Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP): For skilled workers qualified in a skilled trade.
- Provincial Nominee Program (PNP): This visa allows provinces and territories to nominate individuals who wish to migrate and are interested in settling in a particular province in Canada.
- Family Sponsorship: This stream allows Canadian citizens and permanent residents to sponsor family members and invite them to live in Canada.
- Start-Up Visa Program: This program is for entrepreneurs with the skills and potential to establish innovative businesses in Canada, create jobs for Canadians, and compete globally.
Key Differences in Immigration Programs: Australia vs. Canada
| Aspects | Australia | Canada |
| Focus | skilled migration and regional settlement | Offers a broader range of flexible immigration programs. |
| Processing | Streamlined and faster | Some immigration processes may take longer. |
| Pathways | Point-Tested System | Point-based system with additional pathways through the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP). |
Australia Vs Canada Immigration
Australia and Canada are two popular destinations for immigration, and both countries have established immigration systems to attract skilled workers, family members of citizens, and permanent residents.
Here is the comparison of several key factors in Australia Vs Canada immigration.
Points-Based System
Both Australia and Canada use a points-based system to evaluate potential immigrants. The criteria for gaining points, however, changes between the two countries. The emphasis in Australia is on age, language skills, work experience, and education, whereas in Canada, the emphasis is on language proficiency, education, work experience, age, and adaptability.
Let’s have a look at the maximum points per factor.
| Factors | Australia | Canada |
| Age | 30 | 12 |
| Language Proficiency | 20 | 28 |
| Foreign Work Experience | 15 | 15 |
| In-country Work Experience | 20 | 10 |
| Education | 25 | 25 |
| Other Factors | 20 | 10 |
| Passing Score | 65 | 67 |
Citizenship
After four years of residency in Australia, permanent residents are entitled to apply for citizenship by the Australian government. To be eligible for citizenship in Canada, permanent residents must have lived in the country for at least three years out of the previous five years.
Sponsorship
Both Australia and Canada offer family sponsorship programs to sponsor their relatives to immigrate and live with them.
Cost of Studying in Australia Vs Canada
The cost of studying in Australia vs Canada varies depending on a number of factors, including the type of program, the university, the location, and the student’s lifestyle. But, here are some general comparisons.
| Course | Australian Fees | Canadian Fees |
| Diploma/ Certificate | $4,000- 8,000 | $10,000- 30,000 |
| Undergraduate Degree Program | $20,000-48,000 | $20,000- 45,000 |
| Postgraduate Degree Program | $22,000- 50,000 | $16,000- 30,000 |
Wages Rates in Australia Vs Canada
The average wage rate in Australia is higher than in Canada. According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, full-time workers’ average weekly salary was AUD 1,888 (approximately CAD 1,720) in November 2023.
In comparison, the average weekly earnings for full-time workers in Canada is CAD 1,245 in January 2024, according to Statistics Canada.
It’s worth noting that the cost of living varies between different regions within each country, so the currency value of these wages may differ. Additionally, these averages may not necessarily reflect the wages earned in specific industries or occupations.
Note: This data highlights that, as of 2023 to 2024, full-time workers in Australia continue to earn more on average as compared to Canada.
Career Opportunities in Australia Vs Canada
Both Australia and Canada offer a wide range of job opportunities in various fields. However, there are some differences in the job markets and opportunities in these two countries.
- Australia has a strong economy and a low unemployment rate, with a focus on service industries such as healthcare, education, tourism, and finance.
- Australia is a popular destination for skilled migrants, and the government has various visa programs designed to attract skilled workers. In 2023, approximately 154,000 job listings were available in Australia.
- Canada also has a strong economy and a relatively low unemployment rate which is 6.5%. There is a number of different industries in the country including healthcare, education, technology, natural resources, and manufacturing. The demand for skilled workers in Canada is high in fields such as engineering, IT, healthcare, and skilled trades.
Overall, both Australia and Canada offer excellent job opportunities and a high standard of living. The choice between the two may depend on your individual preferences, such as industry specialization, lifestyle, and cultural differences.
Health Facilities in Australia Vs Canada
Australia and Canada are both developed countries with highly advanced healthcare systems. However, there are some differences in the healthcare facilities offered in these countries.
- Both countries provide high-quality healthcare, with well-trained and qualified healthcare professionals. However, Australia has a higher patient satisfaction rate with the healthcare system overall( approximately 73.4% Australian are reported being satisfied with their healthcare), while Canada has a higher life expectancy ( 83.11% in 2024) and lower infant mortality rate.
- Canada has a publicly funded healthcare system, which means that healthcare is provided by the government and is funded through taxes. Australia also has a public healthcare system, but it is partially funded by the government and partially funded through private insurance.
- The cost of healthcare in Australia is generally lower than in Canada, as the government subsidizes a larger portion of healthcare costs in Australia.
Weather and Climate in Australia Vs Canada
Australia and Canada are two countries located on different hemispheres, and the weather is quite different due to their geographical location.
Temperature:
The average temperature in Canada ranges from -10°C (14°F) to 20°C (68°F) depending on the time of year, with colder temperatures in the north and warmer temperatures in the south.
In Australia, the temperature varies from 0°C (32°F) to 40°C (104°F) depending on the location, with hot temperatures in the north and cooler temperatures in the south.
Popular Tourist Spots in Australia Vs Canada
Australia and Canada are both vast countries with beautiful landscapes and tourist attractions. Here are some of the top tourist spots in each country:
Tourist Spots in Australia
- Sydney Opera House
- Great Barrier Reef
- Bondi Beach
- Kangaroo Island
- Blue Mountains, NSW
- Kakadu National Park
- Great Ocean Road, Victoria
Tourist Spots in Canada
- Niagara Falls
- Toronto’s CN Tower
- The Rocky Mountains
- Whistler
- Polar Bears of Churchill
- Prince Edward Island
- Canadian Museum of Human Rights
Australia Vs Canada- In a Nutshell!
Australia and Canada are both amazing places to migrate but eventually, it depends on what are your needs and desires. The comparison of both countries made here can help you to choose where to migrate like if you are a cold and chilly weather lover you can go to Canada and if you want to live a life in mild weather you can go to Australia. You can also make your decision based on comparisons of immigration and wages that have been mentioned above.
For further assistance, you can also contact us. If your chosen country is Australia then you can get more information about the immigration process through our visa experts on The Migration. You can also reach out to us on Facebook, Instagram, and Youtube.
Frequently Asked Questions(FAQs) Related to Australia Vs Canada.
Following are the frequently asked question when someone thinks about migrating to Australia or Canada or feels confused while choosing between them
Q1.Which country has better weather, Australia or Canada?
A1: Australia generally has warmer weather throughout the year, while Canada has colder winters and varying seasonal temperatures.
Q2: Which country offers better healthcare?
A2: Both Australia and Canada have excellent healthcare systems, providing quality care to their residents
Q3: Which country has better opportunities for entrepreneurs and startups?
A3: Both Australia and Canada have vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystems, offering opportunities for startups and innovation.
Q4: Which country offers a better work-life balance?
A4: Australia is known for its laid-back lifestyle and emphasis on work-life balance, providing opportunities for leisure and relaxation.
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I am Kiran Bashir, an expert content writer and researcher with years of experience of writing in the field of immigration law. I am proficient in writing blogs, articles, and website content on Australian visa-related services.
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Kiran Bashirhttps://themigration.com.au/author/kiranistudywise-com/
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Kiran Bashirhttps://themigration.com.au/author/kiranistudywise-com/
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Kiran Bashirhttps://themigration.com.au/author/kiranistudywise-com/
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Kiran Bashirhttps://themigration.com.au/author/kiranistudywise-com/
