India is the world's top country for international migration. It has about 2.5 million Indians moving abroad each year. The International Migration Outlook 2023 highlights India as the leading source of migrants to OECD countries for 2021 and 2022. Over the past fifty years, the number of international migrants has grown significantly.
The United Arab Emirates has the highest number of Indian migrants, around 3.5 million, followed by the United States and Saudi Arabia. There are approximately 18 million Indian migrants globally. Among the easiest countries to migrate to from India are Canada, the United States, Australia, Norway, Germany, and New Zealand.
Factors Influencing Migration Decisions
Key reasons for Indian migration include:
- Education: Many Indians pursue higher education abroad. They choose countries like the US, UK, Canada, and Australia for better academic opportunities.
- Economic Opportunities: Better job prospects and higher salaries attract Indians to developed nations.
- Quality of Life: Improved healthcare, safety, cleaner environments, and better infrastructure in countries like Canada and Australia appeal to migrants.
- Taxation: High-net-worth individuals (HNWIs) often migrate due to India's strict tax regime. They seek favourable tax environments in places like Dubai and Singapore.
- Mobility and Citizenship: Countries with better travel freedom, favorable immigration policies, and pathways to citizenship are attractive.
- Family and Future: Migrating for family reunification and better educational opportunities for children is common.
Top Countries for Work Migration
Canada
Canada is a prime destination for work migration. It has major industries including natural gas, petroleum, chemicals, food products, and IT. In-demand sectors include engineering, healthcare, IT, and business. There is specific need for civil engineers, nurses, software developers, and managers in these sectors.
Canada’s low crime rate, bilingual culture (English and French), and inclusive society add to its appeal. The average salary ranges from CAD 50,000 to CAD 60,000 annually. The provinces like Ontario, British Columbia, and Alberta having significant job vacancies. With over 1 million job vacancies expected in 2024, and a target to welcome 485,000 new permanent residents, Canada presents ample opportunities for skilled workers.
Australia
Australia is a top destination for skilled migration. It offers strong career opportunities across various sectors. The Australian Government has identified 10 in-demand jobs for the next five years. It includes construction managers, civil engineers, registered nurses, and software programmers. These roles reflect the country's need for expertise in construction, healthcare, education, and technology.
Australia’s low unemployment rate of 3.5%. Further, the competitive salaries make it an attractive option for professionals. Additionally, international students can work up to 40 hours every two weeks on a student visa. By doing this, they can gain valuable work experience.
Graduates may be eligible for the Post-Study Work stream of the Temporary Graduate visa. It provides a pathway to long-term employment. Australia’s favorable work rights, safe work environment, and strong economy enhance its appeal as a migration destination.
UK
The UK is an attractive destination for work migration. It is because of its robust job market and high employability rates across various sectors. Degrees in Medicine, Dentistry, and Veterinary Science offer the highest employment rates. Graduates with these degrees’ secure jobs within six months of graduation.
Also, it has strong prospects in Allied Medicine, Education, Architecture, Law, and Economics, with employment rates ranging from 89% to 95.3%. The average annual salary in sectors like IT, Healthcare, and Banking ranges from INR 42L to INR 70L, with top companies such as Barclays, Unilever, and HSBC leading the hiring.
For Indians, the UK offers both full-time and part-time career opportunities. It has high demand for roles like Software Developers, Data Scientists, and Civil Engineers.
Germany
Germany is an attractive destination for skilled workers. It is because of its strong economy and diverse job opportunities. Key sectors in demand include IT and software development, engineering, healthcare, and STEM fields.
Germany offers competitive salaries, with average annual earnings of €58,380 for engineers and €43,396 for IT specialists.
Workers benefit from 25 to 40 paid days off per year and a high work-life balance. Germany’s immigration options include:
- EU Blue Card for highly skilled workers
- Work visas for qualified professionals
- Germany Opportunity Card.
USA
The USA offers a highly attractive environment for work migration. Recently, the job market expanded by 561,000 positions, pushing the unemployment rate to a historic low of 3.8%. Growth was notably strong in leisure and hospitality, adding 227,000 jobs. There was also significant growth in professional and business services, with 139,000 new roles.
The country provides access to world-class education and training, alongside strong legal protections for workers. Additionally, the USA offers significant opportunities for career growth across various sectors.
For Indians, the USA presents lucrative prospects, with average annual salaries in key fields such as software development and healthcare significantly surpassing global averages.
Top 3 Visas To Migrate To Australia (From India)-Kansas
Best Countries for Immigration and Permanent Residency
Image: A collage featuring iconic landmarks from various countries, with people from diverse backgrounds smiling and holding passports
Canada
Canada is renowned for its friendly immigration policies and high quality of life. It offers a range of pathways to permanent residency. It includes the Express Entry system, which is accessible for skilled professionals and students.
New Zealand
New Zealand has a straightforward immigration process with various visa options for work, study, and investment. Permanent residency can be achieved after residing in the country for a few years on a temporary visa.
Australia
Australia's immigration policies are supportive of skilled workers. The country provides pathways to permanent residency through different visa programs. These are:
- Family-stream permanent residence visas
- Work-stream permanent residence visas
- Business or investment-stream permanent residence visas
Germany
Germany provides several pathways to permanent residency. It includes long-term residency options for skilled workers and international students, through a Permanent EU Residence permit.
Netherlands
The Netherlands has a strong job market and offers various visa options for work and study. Permanent residency is achievable for those who meet employment and residence requirements. The country boasts a high standard of living, excellent infrastructure, and a diverse, multicultural environment.
Denmark
Denmark is known for its high quality of life, low tuition fees, and safe environment. The country offers favorable conditions for international students and skilled workers, with pathways to permanent residency available after a few years of employment.
France
France offers pathways to permanent residency after five years of residence. You can apply for long-term resident status once you've legally resided in France for five continuous years. It is a common pathway to obtaining permanent residence.
Ireland
Ireland is an attractive option for immigrants due to its strong job market, particularly in the technology and pharmaceutical sectors, and friendly immigration policies. Permanent residency is attainable after living and working in the country for five years.
Italy
The country offers pathways to permanent residency after five years of legal residence. To qualify, you need to demonstrate that you have lived in Italy for the last five years. Additionally, you must provide a clear criminal background check and pass an Italian language test showing you have at least an A2 proficiency level.
Hungary
Hungary stands out for its affordable education, high living standards, and central location in Europe. It has a relatively accessible immigration process with various visas available. Further, permanent residency can be achieved after three years of employment.
Canada VS USA: Which Country Is Better To Settle For ...
Best Countries for Family Migration
Canada
- Family Sponsorship Program: Allows Canadian citizens and permanent residents to sponsor close relatives. It includes spouses, common-law partners, dependent children, and parents or grandparents for permanent residency.
- Express Entry System: Includes options for Canadian citizens and permanent residents to bring their family members as dependents when applying for permanent residency.
- Super Visa Program: Allows parents and grandparents of Canadian citizens or permanent residents to stay in Canada for up to two years at a time, with the option to extend their stay.
Germany
- Family Reunion Visa: Enables spouses, minor children, and other close family members of foreign nationals residing in Germany to join them. This applies to both EU and non-EU citizens.
- Integration Courses: Language and integration courses are available for family members who are residents in Germany to help them adapt to life in Germany.
- Residence Permits: Family members receive residence permits allowing them to live, work, and study in Germany.
New Zealand
- Family Visas: Includes options for partners, dependent children, and parents of New Zealand citizens or residents. This allows for various family reunification scenarios.
- Resident Visas: Family members of New Zealand residents or citizens can apply for resident visas. It grants the right to live, work, and study in New Zealand.
Netherlands
- Family Reunification Program: Allows Dutch citizens and residents to bring their spouse, registered partner, or minor children to the Netherlands. Family members can obtain a residence permit to live and work in the country.
- Integration Requirement: Family members must meet integration requirements, including Dutch language proficiency and knowledge of Dutch society.
Denmark
- Family Reunification Scheme: Allows Danish citizens and residents to bring close family members, including spouses, cohabiting partners, and minor children. The program includes specific requirements for income and housing.
- Integration Programs: Includes integration programs to help new arrivals adapt to Danish society.
Top 5 European Countries for Indians to Live In
1. Germany
Germany ranks 14th in the World Happiness Index 2024. It is known for its strong economy and diverse career opportunities, especially for engineers. The country offers a high standard of living, excellent healthcare, generous paid leave, and a balanced work-life environment.
2. Denmark
Denmark is recognized for its safety, happiness, and high quality of life. It ranks 2nd in the World Happiness Index 2024. It has a strong focus on work-life balance and low-income inequality. It offers high employee satisfaction, higher salaries, and fewer working hours compared to many other countries.
3. Sweden
It is ranked 4th in the World Happiness Index 2024. Sweden is celebrated for its work-life balance and thriving startup culture. It has high employment rates, a healthy working environment, social security benefits, and overtime compensation.
4. The Netherlands
The Netherlands ranks 6th in the World Happiness Index 2024. It is ideal for entrepreneurs and those seeking a strong economy with social security. It offers sponsored employment opportunities, long-term job prospects, and investment in support programs.
5. UK
The UK is known for its strong economy, competitive benefits, and world-class education system. This makes it a great choice for Indians. It ranks 20th in the World Happiness Index 2024.
Top 5 Countries for Students to Study Abroad in 2024 (with Visa Options)
1. Germany
Germany is renowned for its high-quality education, low or no tuition fees, and strong emphasis on research. The country offers excellent career opportunities, particularly in engineering, technology, and business.
Student Visa (Visum Zu Studienzwecken) - This visa is for students who have been admitted to a German university. It allows them to stay and study in Germany for the duration of their course.
2. United States
The US remains a top choice for international students. This is due to its prestigious universities, diverse programs, and vibrant campus life. With over 5,500 institutions offering a variety of courses, students can find programs that align with their career goals.
F-1 Visa - The F-1 visa is for students attending an academic program or English Language Program in the US. It allows for part-time work on campus and the possibility of Optional Practical Training (OPT) after graduation.
3. United Kingdom
The UK is home to some of the world's most respected universities. The UK's education system is highly regarded, with a wide range of programs, particularly in humanities, arts, and sciences.
Student Visa - This visa is for international students who have a confirmed offer from a UK educational institution. It allows for part-time work during studies and a post-study work visa option after graduation.
4. Australia
Australia is known for its welcoming attitude towards international students and top-ranked universities. The country's education system offers a variety of courses, particularly in environmental sciences, engineering, and healthcare.
Student Visa (Subclass 500) - This visa allows students to study full-time in an accredited Australian educational institution. It includes work rights for part-time employment.
5. Canada
Canada is a popular choice for students. It is due to its high-quality education, safe environment, and multicultural society. The country offers strong support for research and innovation, especially in STEM fields. Additionally, Canada’s bilingual nature provides opportunities for language learning.
Study Permit - The study permit allows students to study at designated learning institutions in Canada. It also permits part-time work during studies and full-time work during breaks. It allows applying for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) after completing the course.
USA Student Visa: Process, Requirements (& Interview Tips)
How can Kansas Help?
At Kansas Overseas Careers, we specialize in helping individuals and families from India understand the complex process of migration. Whether you're seeking permanent residency, a work visa, or a study visa, our experienced team is here to guide you every step of the way.
- Personalized Consultancy: We offer tailored immigration advice based on your unique needs.
- Expert Guidance: Our team stays updated on the latest immigration laws and policies. We provide accurate and timely advice.
- Work Visa Assistance: We help you secure work visas. We do so by aligning your skills with global job market demands.
- Study Visa Support: We guide students in selecting the right courses and institutions. We also assist with visa applications.
- Family Sponsorship: We assist with family sponsorship programs. By doing this we help you reunite with your loved ones abroad.
- Comprehensive Documentation: We ensure all your documents are in order. This minimises delays and rejections.
- Transparent Process: We maintain transparency throughout the process. Hence, we keep you informed at every stage.
- High Success Rate: Our proven track record of successful visa approvals underscores our commitment to excellence.
- End-to-End Service: From the initial consultation to final visa approval, we support you every step of the way.
Best Immigration Services in India – Kansas
Other FAQs
1. Best Countries to Migrate from India
- Canada: Known for its immigrant-friendly policies, high quality of life, and ample job opportunities.
- Australia: Offers a points-based immigration system, good job prospects, and a high standard of living.
- Germany: Attractive for skilled professionals, especially in engineering, IT, and healthcare.
- New Zealand: Known for its peaceful environment, quality education, and work-life balance.
- United States: Offers diverse job opportunities and a large Indian diaspora.
2. Which is the Easiest Country to Migrate from India?
With its Express Entry system, Canada is often considered the easiest country to migrate to, especially for skilled workers.
3. Best Countries for Indian Immigrants
- Canada: Due to its multicultural society, excellent healthcare, and education systems.
- Australia: Offers strong job markets, especially in sectors like IT, healthcare, and engineering.
- United Kingdom: Preferred for its strong economy, education opportunities, and historical ties with India.
- Germany: Offers great opportunities for professionals in technology, engineering, and manufacturing.
- United States: Popular for its diverse job market and large Indian community.
4. Best Countries for Indian Immigrants seeking Higher Education Opportunities
- United States: Offers top-ranked universities and a wide variety of programs.
- Canada: Known for its high-quality education system and affordable tuition fees.
- Australia: Attractive for students due to its world-class universities and student-friendly visa policies.
- Germany: Offers excellent education with little or no tuition fees for many programs.
- United Kingdom: Home to some of the world’s oldest and most prestigious universities.
5. How to Evaluate which country is the Best fit for your Migration Goals?
- Career Opportunities: Consider job prospects in your field.
- Language: Evaluate your proficiency in the country's official language(s).
- Quality of Life: Look at healthcare, education, and overall living conditions.
- Immigration Policies: Assess the ease of obtaining visas and permanent residency.
- Cultural Fit: Consider how well you and your family will integrate into the local culture.
6. Good Countries for Indians to Immigrate to for Better Opportunities and Money
- Canada: High salaries, a strong job market, and a welcoming immigration system.
- Australia: Offers high wages, especially in sectors like IT, mining, and healthcare.
- Germany: High demand for skilled workers with attractive salaries.
- United States: High earning potential in various industries.
- United Arab Emirates: Tax-free income and a booming job market in sectors like finance, IT, and construction.
7. Best and Most Practical Countries to Migrate to as an Indian
- Canada: Practical due to its clear immigration process and high acceptance of Indian immigrants.
- Australia: Offers a straightforward points-based immigration system.
- Germany: Practical for those in engineering, IT, and healthcare due to the high demand for skills.
- New Zealand: Practical for those seeking a peaceful environment with good job opportunities.
8. Most important factors for Indian Professionals to consider when choosing a Country to migrate to
- Job Market: Availability of jobs in your industry.
- Immigration Policies: Ease of obtaining visas and long-term residency.
- Cost of Living: Consider the affordability of housing, healthcare, and education.
- Cultural Adaptation: How well you can adapt to the local culture and lifestyle.
- Quality of Life: Consider healthcare, education, and overall living conditions.
9. Is it necessary to Hire an Immigration Consultant or Agency when moving from India?
While not mandatory, hiring a consultant can simplify the process. They will also ensure accuracy in documentation, and increase your chances of approval.
10. Best country for Immigration from India that fits your Requirements
The best country varies depending on your career goals, family needs, and lifestyle preferences. For example, Canada may be best for family settlement, while Germany might be ideal for career growth in engineering.
11. How does the economic climate in Foreign Countries affect Indian Migrants?
- Job Market Stability: A strong economy typically means better job prospects.
- Wage Levels: Economic conditions influence salary levels and job benefits.
- Cost of Living: Economic stability affects housing, healthcare, and overall cost of living.
- Currency Exchange Rates: Fluctuations can impact the value of remittances sent back to India.
12. Specific countries better for Indian IT Professionals
- United States: Especially in Silicon Valley, offering top tech jobs and high salaries.
- Canada: A growing tech industry with ample opportunities for IT professionals.
- Germany: High demand for IT skills, particularly in software development and cybersecurity.
- Australia: Strong IT sector with good job prospects and high salaries.
13. Easiest country to get permanent residency for Indians
- Canada is Known for its straightforward and relatively fast process for obtaining permanent residency especially through the Express Entry system.
14. Factors to consider when choosing a country from India to migrate to
- Career Opportunities: Job availability in your field.
- Immigration Requirements: Visa availability, processing times, and residency options.
- Language Barriers: Consider language requirements and your proficiency.
- Cultural Compatibility: How well you will integrate into the new culture.
- Long-Term Prospects: Opportunities for permanent residency or citizenship.