How to Immigrate to Canada from Australia – Your Complete Guide for 2024

Many people from across the Globe consider Canada a great immigration option. Here we tell about why Canada could be a destination of choice for Australian citizens and how they may plan the move.

18 Oct 2023, 1:21 pm

12

min read

Mountains in Canada

Immigration to Canada from Australia is more common than you may think. Economic climate and opportunities apart, the two countries have a lot in common too, from the lush natural environment to a culturally diverse community.

More and more people over the years have considered moving to Canada from Australia due to a number of reasons. With a lot of immigration options readily available to workers of all skill levels, it is even possible to apply for permanent residence as an Australian citizen.

If you are thinking about moving to Canada from Australia, keep reading this article to find out more details about such a move.

How to Move to Canada from Australia

There are many options of Canada PR for Australian citizens. It could be governed by your skill level and reason for moving.

Let’s have a look at some of the main programs for the most common goals.

Immigrate to Canada from Australia

Immigrate to Canada as a Worker / Express Entry

Do you have any skills and professional background?

If that is the case, you might want to have a closer look at the programs that are processed under the Express Entry system:

Are you Eligible For a Canadian Work Visa?

Check Now If You are Eligible For One of Canada’s Working Programs or Just Book a Free Consultation Call  with An Immigration Expert

As for the Express Entry system, we tell more about how it works here.

Immigrate to Canada with Your Family

Looking to immigrate to Canada with your family?

If the answer is yes, you should know that if one of the parents or one partner has received a visa, the rest of the family can come along. That’s why as partners you may want to submit 2 applications as you never know who has better chances of receiving the visa.

Also, a student visa is easier to obtain than a working visa, and if one of the family members managed to achieve one, it can help bring the whole family to Canada.

This is the kind of creative solution a Canadian immigration consultant can help you with. That’s also why the best advice we can give you is to consult with an Immigration expert!

Temporary Immigration for Young Adults (18-35yo): IEC / Student Visa

Do you want to “try on” Canadian life before immigration?

Then you might want to explore International Experience Canada (IEC Canada).

This program is ideal for Australian citizens between the ages of 18 and 30 who are looking to test the waters in Canada.

If approved for the program, applicants are permitted to live in Canada for up to two years to work, travel, and experience Canadian life. 

This allows the individual to get a feel for what life in Canada would be like without making a full commitment from the start. If they can see themselves living here permanently, they can start the process of moving to Canada from Australia. 

Immigrate to Canada as a Student

Are you interested in studying in Canada?

Luckily, Canada is very welcoming for those who are looking for higher education.

In Canada, you can obtain a Post-Graduate Work Permit (PGWP) following most programs of study. Your PGWP can be valid for the same duration as your study permit, up to three years.

With its reputable educational system and high-ranking universities, Canada is one of the most attractive countries for students from around the world.

To get into a Canadian university, students need to get the student visa.

We described the process of becoming a Canadian student here.

Immigrate to Canada from New Zealand

Immigrate to Canada as an Entrepreneur or Investor

Do you want to get citizenship by investing in Canada’s economy?

If so, then you may learn more about the Investor Visa.

Do you have the skills, talent, and funds to build or establish a business in Canada?

Then Start-up visa could be an option for you. You may learn more about it here.

You may also have a look at our guide that covers business immigration.

Family Sponsorship In Canada

Immigration is faster and easier for those who have relatives in Canada. Possibly, you have someone you want to move your family after you immigrate.

If that is the case, Family Sponsorship options could be perfect for you.

This pathway works in one of two ways – inland or outland. The inland sponsorship is when the individual sponsored is already living in Canada, while the outland sponsorship is for someone currently living outside of Canada.

You may learn about Family Sponsorship here.

Why Moving to Canada from Australia Could Be a Good Idea?

One might wonder why moving to Canada from Australia is a good option. The transition from kangaroos to beavers comes with a lot of perks and improved quality of life. Here are some of the top reasons why Australians move to Canada and get Canada PR.

Reason 1: Economics

The most important factor that plays a vital role in immigration to Canada from Australia is the economy and better job opportunities.

The bustling and technologically advanced provinces of Ontario and British Columbia are what attracts most people to immigrate. There are huge job gains with the constant influx of immigrants, and this is the top reason for moving to Canada from Australia.

Besides the prominent business and employment hubs of Toronto and Montreal, an enhanced funding of infrastructure and development projects in other provinces and territories are also creating more and more job opportunities for immigrants.

Reason 2: Canada Can Feel Like Home

Coming back to the multicultural climate of Canada, there are many Australians working in different sectors all over the country, so rest assured that you will find many Aussie mates in the Great White North.

The snowy ski slopes of Whistler give a familiar comfort where you’ll probably hear the Australian accent more often than you had expected, and mornings starting with a good old dollop of vegemite.

Besides Whistler, the larger cities also attract immigrants with secure and permanent employment opportunities.

Check out if you are eligible for immigration to Canada within a few minutes:

Reason 3: Family Immigration

family time in Canada

Canada has a better family sponsorship plan as compared to Australia, making the option of moving to Canada from Australia quite attractive for those willing to bring their families with them.

The processing time is also faster, and the temporary options in hand for family members like Super Visa is a sure short way to be with family, which is why many Australians move to Canada.

Reason 4: Politics

One can’t overlook the fact that Canada has one of the most well-liked prime ministers in the whole world.

The immigration process has also become simpler over the years, with the high surge of immigrants adding to the multicultural environment of the country every year.

The liberal, tolerant and inclusive environment makes moving to Canada from Australia a great option.

Reason 5: Education

just graduated in Canada!

Canada has a high-class education system – not to take away from Australia’s education system.

Canada ranks high on the list with some of the best universities in the world such as McGill University and the University of Toronto.

Australian move to Canada for a number of reasons, including studying in great universities or getting PhDs.

Reason 6: Nature

While some move for better job offers or family immigration plans, some Australian immigration to Canada is solely due to the stunning mountainous backdrop and natural scenery to make a quaint and peaceful life for oneself.

The booming tourism sector has led to the development of more and more outdoor activities, be it rock ice climbing, snowboarding, skiing, or hiking.

If you are looking for temporary residency to explore the country and survey the market, as a resident of Australia you’ll only require eTA (Electronic Travel Authorization) with a validity of up to 3 months, which can help solidify your decision to migrate.

Anything Else?

Other factors that make Canada PR for Australian citizens an attractive option include healthcare coverage, childcare benefits, and employer insurance and increased paid maternity and parental leaves.

Life in Canada vs Life in Australia

Before you apply for permanent residence to Canada from Australia, it’s a good idea to make a comparison between the two countries and understand why Australian immigration to Canada is getting so common. As both countries are huge with both common and distinguishing factors, its best to compare the major cities and celebrate their differences and similarities

Toronto vs Sydney

These are the cultural and technical hub in both countries, with the densest and most diverse population making up the bulk of the city.

If you enjoy the lively and energetic ambiance of Sydney, you’ll love the advanced metropolitan vibe of Toronto just as much.

Toronto attracts many Australians to move to Canada due to the similar atmosphere with better opportunities for immigrants.

Calgary vs Adelaide

Calgary – and Alberta in general, has become a prominent province attracting a large influx of immigrants due to its promising job opportunities and flourishing sectors alongside a fresh contemporary feel.

The beautiful prairie province has a lot to offer, with Calgary sharing a lot of similarities with Adelaide. Bringing immigrants the best of both worlds, edgy skyscrapers are paired with serene countryside views, and a lot of events throughout the year.

Montreal vs Melbourne

With a variety of international festivals, cultural events and lively atmosphere, a person can’t get bored in Melbourne or Montreal – both offering a similar vibe with a large array of activities to indulge in.

Montreal is also a vastly independent, well developed cosmopolitan city that offers great opportunities to Australians.

Weather

When applying for permanent residence to Canada from Australia, one of the most important factors to consider is the weather.

Canada is famous for its brutal winters with subzero temperature, but there are a number of cities with mild climate as well, like Vancouver for instance. The country’s cold weather can get extreme but only occasionally in major cities, while the pleasant breeze and enjoyable snow and winter sports offer a breather from Australia’s high temperature.

Lifestyle

sportsman in Canadian mountains

The cost of living in both countries is about the same, with some items being cheaper in Canada, and less taxes in the province of Alberta.

Australia’s official language is English, while Canada is bilingual with both English and French as its official language, offering an option to foreigners to settle and make a home with familiar culture and customs.

Work: Australians Working in Canada

So, what is the easiest way to immigrate to Canada?

In fact, Australians are considered hard-working and are preferred by many Canadian employers, making acquiring Canada PR from Australia all the more easy than from many other countries in the world.

It’s a mutual attraction: Australians like Canada for being advanced and prospering & Canada likes Australians for being talented.

As a result, there are many Australians working in Canada in all the possible niches.

You may learn more about Canadian in-demand jobs here and about how to get a job in Canada in our specially designed guide.

Recommended Canada Immigration Agent for Australian Residents

Don’t know where to begin?

Immigration could be challenging. But there are professionals (RCICs) who know everything about available immigration programs and how to come up with a plan that would bring you the desired permanent residency.

The trick is finding the right RCIC or agency for Ausrtalia residents. Canada2036 has put together a top Recommended Canadian Immigration Consultants list based on extensive research, customer testimonials, and other vetting methods.

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Immigrate to Canada from Australia : Commonly Asked Questions

Here are some questions you may have about immigration to Canada from Australia.

Is it easy to migrate to Canada from Australia?
It is easier to migrate to Canada from Australia, as Canada only requires eTA for visit, and offers a wide range of immigration programs for permanent residency. The process to apply for permanent residence to Canada from Australia is also simple with express entry pathways.
Is Australia colder than Canada?
Australia and Canada are both vast countries with cities that range from mild climate to extreme weathers. However, Canada is a colder region as compared to Canada, where temperature exceeds the freezing point in some territories during the dead of winters.
Is Canada safer than Australia?
Australia and Canada are democratic countries, with violence free societies and low crime rates. Canada ranks high as one of the safest countries in the world to live in, with Australia also being close in the list. Australia has 222.7 police offers / 100,000 of its population, while Canada compares with 191.4 police officers, given such a low crime rate.
Is it more expensive to live in Canada or Australia?
According to a recent statistic, Canada is around 17.7% cheaper as compared to Australia, with the general cost of living being less demanding with the same quality of life.
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The child of immigrant parents, I came to Canada when I was just five years old. I used to volunteer at an immigration resource centre and now work for the Canadian Federal Government. Writing is my passion and I hope my words can provide some help to a new immigrant or someone considering a move to Canada.

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