Moving to Canada From Australia
Immigrate to Canada from Australia
Moving to canada from Australia is a big step and many people living in australia look to canada because of its strong economy, welcoming immigration system , peaceful life and excellent living standards. If you are planning to immigrate to canada from Australia, whether it’s for a new job or any other reason, you need proper planning and clear information. In this guide, we will walk you through the key details and help make your journey simple and stress-free.
Comparing Immigration to Canada vs Staying in Australia
Many skilled professionals in Australia think about moving to Canada from Australia because Canada’s immigration system is predictable and points-based. Compared to Australia’s competitive PR system, Canada’s pathways are often faster and more accessible.
| Factor | Australia PR | Canada PR |
|---|---|---|
| Process Transparency | Moderate | Very High |
| Processing Time | 1–3 years | 6–12 months |
| Job Offer Required | Sometimes | Not always |
| Cost | Higher | Moderate |
| Provincial Pathway Options | Limited | Very Wide |
Immigration Options for Australians Without a Job Offer
One of the biggest advantages for Australian residents is that you can apply Canada PR from Australia without needing a job offer. The Express Entry and PNP systems allow skilled workers to apply independently based on their qualifications. To improve your chance of invitation you must be under 40 and have a bachelor’s or master’s degree with 3+ years of skilled work experience.
Eligible Without Job Offer:
Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP)
Certain provincial programs (Ontario, Alberta, Nova Scotia, Saskatchewan)
This makes it much easier for Australians looking to immigrate to Canada from Australia through skilled migration streams. For more details visit Canada PR Points Calculator to Check your eligibility instantly.
Immigration Options for Australians Without a Job Offer
The cost of living in Canada is generally lower than in Australia, especially when it comes to housing, transportation and everyday expenses. Housing is one of the biggest factors that makes Canada more affordable. Rent and property prices in Canada, especially outside Toronto and Vancouver, are noticeably lower than in major Australian cities. Australia often offers higher average salaries, which can balance out the higher living costs. Canada may be cheaper to live in but your financial comfort depends on your income, profession and the region you choose. Transportation is also cheap compared to australia which makes commuting cheaper.
Overall both countries have some pros and cons, whereas Australia offers a high salary package but also has high cost of living while canada provide a more affordable lifestyle with high salary. For most people, relocating from Australia to Canada results in a noticeable reduction in monthly expenses, especially in housing and utilities.However, your personal cost of living will depend on your lifestyle and the city or province you move to.
What are the requirements to immigrate to Canada?
The requirements to immigrate to Canada depend on the visa or PR pathway you choose, but most programs follow a similar set of eligibility standards. Below are the key requirements for skilled workers, students, and other applicants planning to move to Canada from overseas, including Australia.
1. Skilled Work Experience
Most PR pathways—like Express Entry or Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs)—require at least one year of skilled, full-time work experience in an eligible occupation listed under Canada’s NOC system.
2. English or French Language Test
You must take an approved language test such as:
- IELTS General
- PTE Core
- CELPIP
- TEF (for French)
Your score plays a major role in your eligibility and CRS points.
3. Educational Credential Assessment (ECA)
If you completed your studies outside Canada, you must have your qualifications assessed by an approved body such as:
- WES
- IQAS
- CES
- ICES
This confirms your education is equivalent to Canadian standards.
4. Proof of Funds
Applicants must show they have enough funds to support themselves and their families after arriving in Canada. The required amount varies based on family size and immigration program.
5. Age Requirement
Canada does not have a strict maximum age limit for PR, but applicants between 18 and 35 receive the highest CRS points. Older applicants can still qualify through:
- PNPs
- Job offers
- Strong language scores
6. Medical Examination
All applicants must undergo a medical exam by an approved panel physician to ensure they meet Canadian health requirements.
7. Police Clearance Certificate (PCC)
You must provide police certificates from every country where you lived for more than six months after the age of 18.
8. Valid Passport and Identity Documents
A valid passport and identification records are required to submit your application.
9. Proof of Work Experience
You must submit:
- Employer reference letters
- Pay slips
- Employment contracts (if required)
These documents confirm your experience matches your NOC occupation.
10. CRS Score (For Express Entry)
To qualify under Express Entry, your Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score must meet the cutoff in the invitation rounds. CRS is calculated based on:
- Age
- Work experience
- Education
- Language test score
- Canadian job offer or provincial nomination
How Much Money Do I Need to Migrate to Canada?
The amount of money you need to migrate to Canada depends on your immigration pathway, family size and settlement fund requirements. For most skilled workers applying under Express Entry, the Government of Canada requires applicants to show proof of funds to support themselves after landing.
| Family Size | Required Funds (Approx. CAD) |
|---|---|
| 1 Person | $14,000 – $15,000 CAD |
| 2 People | $18,000 – $19,000 CAD |
| 3 People | $22,000 – $23,000 CAD |
| 4 People | $26,000 – $28,000 CAD |
| 5 People | $30,000 – $32,000 CAD |
Is $5,000 a Month Good in Canada?
$5,000 per month (about $60,000 CAD per year before tax) is generally a comfortable income in many Canadian cities. Your take-home pay after tax depends on the province, but this level of income typically covers rent, utilities, groceries, transport and leaves room for savings and discretionary spending in most regions outside Toronto and Vancouver.
Example monthly budget on a $5,000/month income (pre-tax, approximate):
| Rent (1-bedroom) | $1,300–$2,200 |
| Groceries | $350–$600 |
| Transportation | $100–$200 |
| Utilities & Internet | $150–$250 |
| Miscellaneous | $400–$700 |
If you plan to live in high-cost cities such as Vancouver or Toronto, housing will be the largest expense and may reduce how comfortable $5,000/month feels. Sharing accommodation or choosing a suburban location can improve affordability.
| Feature / Category | Canada PR | Australia PR |
|---|---|---|
| Main PR Pathways | Express Entry, PNP, Family, Business Immigration | GSM (189, 190, 491), Employer-sponsored, Partner & Parent visas |
| Processing Time | 6–12 months | 12–24 months |
| Points System | CRS System | Points Test System |
| Job Offer Required? | No | No (except employer visas) |
| English Requirement | IELTS / PTE Core / CELPIP | IELTS / PTE Academic |
| Age Preference | Best under 29 | Best between 25–32 |
| PR Cost | Lower | Higher |
| Citizenship | ~3 years | ~4 years |
How GIEC Global Can Help You?
At GIEC Global, we have supported thousands of individuals and families in successfully immigrating to Canada through the Federal Express Entry Program. We also provide dedicated guidance for Canada through GIEC Global, where clients receive direct access to an in-house RCIC Registered Migration Agent. Working with a registered professional ensures that all advice is accurate, ethical and aligned with the latest Canada immigration laws. Your case is handled by someone who is officially qualified, accountable and authorised to provide immigration assistance giving you confidence that your application is managed with care, clarity and full regulatory compliance.
While many agencies rely on third-party RCIC agents, which can increase costs and create communication gaps, we manage everything within our own team. This approach allows us to maintain full control over your case, deliver consistent quality and provide complete transparency at every stage. Because we avoid unnecessary outsourcing, the cost savings are passed directly to you without compromising the standard of guidance you receive.
- Direct guidance from an in-house RCIC Registered Migration Agent
- Transparent communication at every stage — no hidden steps or unclear promises
- Accurate eligibility checks before any application is recommended
- Complete documentation support to reduce errors and delays
- Ethical, compliance-driven approach focused on long-term success
- Professional handling of your case from start to finish — no third-party involvement
