AustraliaUS & WorldUS immigrationJune 14, 2022by Prominent Overseas CareerImmigration: Australia vs. the United States

Indians are Australia’s third biggest migrant community, while the United States is the second most popular destination for Indians residing abroad, behind the United Arab Emirates.

This blog is for you if you are going to start your life in a new nation in quest of a better quality of life, greater salary, and more work chances. Read on to learn more about the differences and parallels between moving to Australia and the United States.

The Significant Differences Between Australia PR and US Green Card

Over the last decade, there has been a huge increase in the number of persons travelling to Australia and the United States. Both countries’ warm climates, modern economies, and rising diversity among citizens have made them among of the most desirable places to live permanently.

In the table below, we’ll look at the significant distinctions between immigration to Australia and immigration to the United States for permanent residency.

  Australia PR Visa US Green Card
Visa type Permanent visa US Green Card
Visa Validity PR visa is for lifetime. You can settle indefinitely in Australia if you hold a Permanent Resident status in the country. The Green Card validity lasts for 10 years. Expiration dates differ for individuals who are conditional permanent residents.
Possibilities of getting the visa High, especially if you have good score in English language tests It can take up to 10 years to get a Green card, but first you must have employer sponsorship to get a H1b visa
Visa Processing Time Getting a PR is faster, and takes only 6 to 10 months if you meet the requirements and have a good PR score Green Card processing time: 7 to 33 months

Employment Based Green Cards: 1 to 6 years

Family Preference Green Cards: 1 to 10 years

Profiles In-demand IT, Engineering, Healthcare sectors and others Law, Community & Social Service, Scientists, Athletes, Entertainers, Engineers, Healthcare support & others
Total visas granted annually Target of over 400,000 immigrants Limited to 1,40,000 per year

 

Pathways to Australia and the United States of America

Visa for Permanent Residency in Australia

The Australia PR visa is a point-based immigration procedure in which you must achieve specific requirements. It is granted to non-citizens of Australia who wish to work and reside permanently in Australia.

The distinction between a permanent resident and an Australian citizen is that the latter has the ability to enter the nation and vote.

Australia Immigrant Intake for 2019-20
Stream Intakes
Employer Sponsored 29,261
Skilled Independent 12,986
Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional 8,372
Skilled Work Regional 15,000
State/Territory Nominated 21,495
Business Innovation and Investment 4,420
Global Talent 4,109
Distinguished Talent 200

 

Permanent Residency in the United States

A Green Card, also known as a Permanent Resident Card, permits you to reside and work in the United States permanently for ten years.

The H1-B visa is a temporary visa that allows you to work and remain in the nation for a maximum of six years, after which you can apply for a Green Card or a three-year extension. It is a popular option for talented Indian immigrants.

 

The following are two popular types of immigration visas:
  1. Family-based visa: For people who have a U.S. citizen or permanent visa holder in their family.
  2. Work visa based on employment: A work offer from a U.S. business is required.

After five years as a Green card holder, you can petition for citizenship in the United States. After three years of residency, spouses of Green Card holders can seek for US citizenship.

Comparison between Australia PR vs US Green Card

  Australia PR Visa US Green Card
Sponsorship requirements Required to meet the Skill Requirement and get sponsorship The H1B visa is an employee-based visa for people working in profit based organizations

You will require an employee sponsorship

Popular PR Pathways Work-Based PR, and Family-Based Permanent Residency H1-B visa to Green Card, Immediate family of Green Card holders and for people with “Extraordinary Talent”
What does it allow you to do? Allows you to get a Permanent Resident Status in Australia The H1B visa allows you to arrive and temporarily work in the US for 3 years

You can then extend the H1B visa for another 3 years, or you can convert it to a Green Card status

Permanent Residence Process and time You must meet a minimum score of 65 in the Points Grid, and your job must be listed in Australia’s Occupation List

If you have a good EOI ranking, you will receive an Invitation to Apply by the government and then receive your PR visa

You can have a Green Card after 6 years of living in the US with the H1B visa

The process is to be initiated by your employer. Follow it up to extend your H1B further

Leaving the country for a year and then reapplying for a H1-B visa is another option

Lottery system No lottery system, but if your job is listed in the Occupation Ceilings list

 

It means that there is a critical shortage of workers in Australia in your field, and you have a higher chance of receiving an Invitation to apply for an Australian PR from the Australian government

There is a lottery system that randomly selects H1-B applications

The US government conducts a lottery on the number of H1-B applications received and stops the intakes once they have reached their annual target

Your application may be selected depending on your good luck

You have 3 chances at testing your luck with the lottery system in 3 years

How long until you get a PR? Waiting time for Australia PR is 8 – 12 months Green card can take 15 to 20 years, with multiple H1B extensions

(Each extension comes with the risk of rejection)

 

Comparison of Eligibility Requirements
Eligibility for Australia PR Visa Green Card Eligibility
·         Have your occupation on the Skilled Occupations list

·         Meet Education & Work Experience requirements

·         English Language Proficiency

·         Either be sponsored or nominated by an employer, the government, or family

·         Have an outstanding professor or researcher, or

·         Are a multinational manager or executive who meets certain criteria

·         Are a second preference immigrant worker,

·         Or are a third preference immigrant worker

·         You have cleared the medical exams and background check

 

What documentation is required for both visas?

Australia PR Application Documents

  • Application for a valid passport
  • Assessment of Educational Credentials Report
  • Certificate of Birth
  • Character reference
  • Nomination proof (if any)
  • 2 passport-size pictures IELTS or PTE exam results
  • Spouse Skill Records (if required)

Image Source (Google)

Documents Required for a US H1B Visa Application
  • Original passport must be presented.
  • All previous passports
  • As specified, a recent photograph
  • The Visa Application Center stamped the confirmation page of the US Visa Application Form DS-160 (VAC)
  • Receipt for payment of visa application fee
  • Original Notice of Action-I-797 Visa Interview Appointment Letter

 

Application Procedures for Australian PR and US Immigration

 

Step 1: Verify Your Eligibility

You must double-check your qualifying requirements.

 

Step 2: Assess Your Skills

Examine your educational background and professional experience.

 

Step 3: Expression of Interest (EOI)

Fill out the Skill Select form to express your interest. This step determines your eligibility score.

 

Step 4: Submit Your Visa Application

After getting an ITA, you must submit your visa application to the Australian Department of Immigration and Border Protection.

 

Step 5: Include Dependents in Your Visa Application

If you are bringing dependents with you, you must provide their information while applying for a valid visa.

 

Step 6: Police Verification and Medical Exam

Following the ITA, you should apply for police verification and medical checks.

 

Step 7: Visa Approval

DIBP will assess the visa paperwork when they have been submitted. If all goes well, you will acquire your PR visa within 3 to 5 months.

 

Steps to Apply for a US Immigrant Visa

The following are the steps involved in the Green Card application:

 

Step 1: Submit a Petition to USCIS.

Candidates who are eligible will complete Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status.

 

Step 2: National Visa Center Case Preparation

Your case will be transferred to the National Visa Center (NVC) for pre-processing. After this is finished, you will receive a Welcome Letter.

 

Step 3: Schedule a Visa Interview

Prior to your interview, you must pay the processing cost for your immigrant visa application. Most interviews are scheduled within three months of receiving the relevant paperwork.

 

Step 4: Medical Examination

A doctor approved by USCIS conducts the medical exams. Your medical history will be evaluated in addition to the physical examination, chest x-rays, and syphilis blood test.

 

Step 5: Attend the visa interview. Interview

This interview is designed to confirm the authenticity of your papers and eligibility for Adjustment of Status.

 

Step 6: Approval of a Green Card Visa

You will be notified of the outcome of your interview at the end. You will be informed as to how and when your passport and visa will be granted.

You may also check your Green Card application status on the USCIS Check Status website.

Contact Prominent Overseas experts for more information on the US Green Card Process.

 

Visa Processing Times in Australia and the United States
Time Required for Australian PR Processing

According to DIBP, the typical wait period for Australia PR is between 8 and 12 months. The processing period for your visa is mostly determined on the visa type you have chosen for PR.

 

Time Required for Processing in the United States

An application for permanent residency (Form I-485) will take between 7 and 33 months to process, according to USCIS. The time frame will differ based on the office location, the grounds for the filing, and other variables.

 

Permanent Residency Advantages: Australia | United States
Australia PR Benefits US Green Card Benefits
Australia PR is valid for 5 years The initial validity of a Green Card is 10 years
You can work, study, and live anywhere in Australia You can work and live anywhere, but switching jobs has a stringent process
You can travel within and outside of Australia without any restrictions It confirms your official immigration status in the United States
PR visa holders hold similar rights to Australian citizenship except for the voting right and applying for Australian government jobs The Green Card, similar to PR, allows you to work and live in the USA permanently with extension every 10 years
You can sponsor a spouse, partner, family members, and dependent children to Australia You can sponsor your Spouse and Unmarried children under 21 to the USA
You can access healthcare and social security benefits No access to healthcare. You will have to pay for all medical expenses
Children of PR holders, born in Australia, will be a citizen by birth Citizenship for the children
Free or subsidised education Lesser subsidies, but access world-class educational institutions
Well-paid job opportunities Better pay structures and better job opportunities
Family-friendly environment ideal for children Lesser stability but you enjoy a high standards of living
One of the least polluted countries in the world Being the prime economical hub of the world, USA has cultural diversity

 

Limitations Of Permanent Residence: Australia | USA
Limitations of Australia PR Limitations of US Green Card
Required to stay in a specific region for 3 years at least to apply for permanent residency There is an annual limit to the number of H1B visas to be issued
Satisfy the minimum annual income requirement to apply for permanent residency Finding an employer to sponsor for H1B visa can be difficult
Challenging to get a job that suits your expertise High qualifications and skills required for a job
Point-based immigration can become a hurdle in some cases Can only stay for a maximum period of 6 years with the H1B visa

 

Working with an Australian PR Visa Vs the USA H1-B Visa 
  Australia PR Visa US H-1B Visa
Stability Flexible and easy to follow immigration laws The changing immigration policies in the US feeble stability
Freedom to Switch Jobs You can work wherever you like in Australia

 

Switch jobs and work for any Australian company willing to sponsor

 

Australia PR gives you equal opportunities like a citizen

It is very risky for H1B holders to switch their jobs due to visa restrictions. H1B however gives you the freedom of shifting from one employer to another

Your new employer has to apply for your H1B visa when you switch jobs. And you will have to reapply for green card by porting the old green card application date with the new date

You will have to go through the the entire processes once again

Job Opportunities Rewarding employment opportunities Job opportunities are more in the US. But it depends on the skill in demand
Business Opportunities The Australian Business Visa Program is an encouraging pathway with several subclasses. Visa restrictions applicable to people starting their own business are less

 

Australia Immigration Policies and the Most Recent Updates for 2022

  • Australia’s COVID recovery strategy included a Priority Migration Skilled Occupation List (PMSOL) that targeted jobs in the health care, construction, and information technology industries.
  • Employer-sponsored candidates in PMSOL vocations will get priority processing for both nomination and visa applications in the following visa categories:
  • Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) visa (subclass 482)
  • Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional (Provisional) Visa (Subclass 494)
  • Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS) visa subclass 186
  • Regional Sponsored Migration Scheme (Subclass 187) (RSMS)
  • Examine the vocations mentioned in PMSOL.

 

Immigration Policies in the United States
  • The Immigrant and Nationality Act (INA) authorises the United States to award 675,000 permanent immigration visas each year in a variety of visa categories.
  • The courts have rejected the Trump administration’s proposed modifications to US federal immigration regulations.
  • Almost two-thirds of legal immigration to the United States is based on family connections. The remainder is split between work-based and humanitarian immigration.
  • Although the United States is highly friendly, its immigration regulations are always being revised. The fundamental purpose for doing so is to limit immigration to the United States.
  • In 2020, both COVID-19 and the Trump administration have curtailed US immigration rules. However, with Joe Bieden as president, it is expected to recover.
  • For India and China, there is progress in employment-based categories.
  • USCIS will continue to honour filing deadlines until December 31, 2020.

 

Most Sought-After Jobs In Australia & USA
Australia USA
Nurses and medical staffs Application Software Developer
IT and Software Programmer Registered Nurse
Construction and Trades Medical Services Manager
Management Professional Data Scientist
Teacher Business Development Manager
Automotive Engineer Medical Technologist
Construction Engineer Construction Labourer
Barristers Home Health Aide
Surgeons Finance Manager

 

Work Hours on Average
Australia

In Australia, the usual work week for an employee in a federally regulated area is 40 hours. Australians work 41 hours each week on average.

 

The United States

According to Bureau of Labor  statistics, American employees worked an average of 34.4 hours per week in 2019.

 

Annual Vacation
Australia

Every year, full-time workers in Australia are entitled to four weeks of paid annual leave.

 

The United States

An average full-time employee in the United States is entitled to ten days of paid vacation each year.

Both countries’ taxation systems are similar.

Australia USA
Taxable Income (USD) Tax Rate Taxable Income (USD) Tax Rate
0 – 18,200 0% 0 – 9,275 10%
18,201 – 37,000 19% 9,276 – 37,650 15%
37,001 – 80,000 $3574 + 32.5% 37,651 – 91,150 25%
80,001 – 180,000 $20,797 + 37% 91,151 – 190,150 28%
Over 180,000 $54,097 + 45% 190,151 – 413,350 33%
    413,351 – 415,050 35%
    Over 415,051 39.60%

 

Australia

Australia has a taxation structure that is progressive. The tax rate rises in direct proportion to income. For tax reasons, foreign nationals who come to Australia are considered as citizens.

 

The United States

The tax system in the United States is rather intricate. It is in place at both the federal and state levels. Income, sales, capital gains, and other kinds of taxation are all available.

 

Scholarships for International Students
Look at the table below to learn about scholarships for Indian students:
USA Scholarships Australian Scholarships
Inlaks Shivdasani Foundation scholarships University of Queensland Postgraduate Coursework Scholarships
Stanford Reliance Dhirubhai Fellowships for Indian students University of Adelaide Ashok Khurana Scholarship for Indian Students
Asian Women in Business Scholarship Fund Australian Leadership Awards (ALA)
S.N. Bose Scholars Student Exchange Program for Indian Students University of Queensland India-Australia BEL Excellence Scholarship
Fulbright-Nehru Research Fellowships Endeavour Leadership Program
East-West Center Graduate Degree Fellowship Australian Government Research & Training Program (AGRTP)
Asian Cultural Council Individual Grants John Allwright Fellowship (JAF)
Tata Scholarships at Cornell Master of Architecture Scholarship – Bond University
Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowships Program Starter Support Scholarship – Covid Bursary – Curtin University
Yale University Fox International Fellowships International Scholarship – Deakin University

 

Australia

Merit-based scholarships are available in Australia for Indian students. Students must also establish their eligibility to apply. There is, however, no qualifying exam requirement for receiving scholarships.

Under the Australian Scholarships Program, the Australian government has made a variety of scholarships accessible to individuals from the Asia Pacific area.

 

The United States

Full scholarships are uncommon in the United States. Everything that is offered is competitive. For Indian students, the chances of receiving a scholarship in the United States are one in eight. In 2015-16, only 1.5 percent of degree programme students received enough support to pay the full cost of attendance.

International students should plan ahead of time to apply for scholarships granted by American colleges, which vary according to course and criterion. Extracurricular activities and volunteering are important factors to consider.

 

Australia’s Cost of Living vs. the United States
Factors Australia USA
Average Monthly Disposable Salary $3,780.69 $3,258.85
Basic Utilities $192.98 $162.08
Rent per Month – 3 Bedroom $2,778.30 $1,685.98
Cinema Ticket $15.19 $10.00
Internet $58.02 $45.72
Local Purchasing Power $101.60 $128.73

 

Australia

The cost of living in Australia is 15.71 percent greater than in the United States. It differs depending on the city or area in which you live. Sydney has the highest cost of living in the country.

 

The United States

When compared to Australia, the cost of living in the United States is lower. Living cost disparities between states are mostly the result of relatively high home costs.

 

Job Prospects in Australia vs. the United States
Australia

The Australian economy, like its population, has been steadily rising as a result of high rates of immigration. Every year, about 200,000 new jobs are generated. Indian IT experts make up the majority of Subclass 457 migrants.

 

The United States

Indians have several work options in the United States. Skills are in short supply in several industries, including healthcare, computers, and information technology. It is also a good option to come to the United States as a student and subsequently apply for the H1B temporary work visa.

 

Job Security in Australia vs. Job Security in the United States
Australia

Workers in Australia enjoy a high degree of job stability in comparison. Across the country, job retention averages about 89 percent. However, the changing economy and fast-paced corporate climate make it more difficult than ever.

 

Healthcare in Australia Vs the United States

Factors Australia USA
Health Care Index 77.38 69.20
Global Rank 9th position 27th position
Availability Free or Low-Cost – Delivered by government through Medicare Expensive and Not-Free – Have to pay all costs – Private
Public Health Infrastructure Highly Developed – Public and Private Federal Structure – Limited Progress
Annual Budget $185 billion $3.8 trillion
Life Expectancy 82.50 years 78.93 years

 

Australia

Although Australia has advanced healthcare facilities, they are not dispersed equitably. It is provided by both the commercial and public sectors and is covered by Medicare.

 

The United States

The private sector owns and operates the majority of healthcare facilities in the United States. While 58 percent of hospitals are nonprofit, 21 percent are government-owned, and the remaining 21 percent are for-profit.

 

Comparisons Between Australia and the United States in General

Other Important Frequently Asked Questions

 

Which of the following is the quickest PR visa in Australia?

The Global Talent Independent programme, the most recent innovation to Australia’s immigration system, is the quickest method to get permanent residency in Australia. Global Talent Visa processing times range from two days to two months.

 

What is a Working Holiday Visa in Australia?

The Working Holiday Maker programme offers two types of visas: the Working Holiday Visa (Subclass 417) and the Work & Holiday Visa (Subclass 462).

You can work and remain in Australia with either visa. For a period of 12 months, you may also pursue full-time, part-time, casual, or shift employment.

 

What sorts of student visas are available in the United States?

The United States issues three categories of student visas:

  • The F-1 visa is intended for full-time students.
  • J-1 visas are used for employment and study-based visitor exchange programmes.
  • The M-1 visa is for full-time vocational studies.

 

Can temporary migrants obtain an Australian passport?

  • Yes, if you satisfy the following requirements, you can apply for an Australian passport:
  • If you have had a temporary or permanent visa enabling you to reside in Australia for at least four years and you have not been outside of Australia for more than three months in the year before the application.

 

What is the quickest way to obtain a Green Card in the United States?

Diversity Visa Immigration Lottery Program Family-Sponsored Preference Categories Employment-Based Preference Categories

Image Source (Google)

Is it tough to obtain a permanent card in the United States?

The five nations where it is difficult for foreigners to get permanent residency or citizenship are the United States, Switzerland, Japan, Germany, and Austria. The US Green Card application process is particularly difficult due to the complexities of the legislation. It is prudent to get advice from an immigration professional.

 

Will my parents be able to stay in Australia permanently?

Yes. The Parent Visa allows Australian citizens and PR visa holders to sponsor parents for permanent residence in Australia. However, because this migration procedure is limited and queued, it may take a very long time to complete.

 

Can I work in the United States as an Australian permanent resident?

Yes. Australian citizens can now apply for E3 visas to live and work in the United States. It is a specific visa that is significantly simpler and less expensive than the H1B work visa. In the United States, around 10,500 E3 visas are allotted for Australians. The E3 visa is good for two years.

 

What should I do when my Australian permanent residency visa expires?

On a PR visa, you can travel overseas and return to Australia as frequently as you like for the first five years. However, you will be unable to return to Australia after the travel component of your visa expires. If you want to return to the nation, you can apply for a Resident Return Visa.

 

Is dual citizenship permitted in Australia?

Yes. Citizenship in two or more countries is permitted in Australia. This, however, should be lawful for all parties involved. Citizens from other nations can settle in Australia and get Australian citizenship, granting them triple nationality.

 

Which country has the lowest cost of living? Australia or the United States?

Australia now has the world’s 12th highest cost of living. The United States is well behind at 21st place. The overall cost of living in Australia is over 9% more than in the United States. Sydney is Australia’s most costly city to live in.

What are the various immigration routes for the United States and Australia?

Australia’s Immigration Routes

Australian Migration Programs Purpose
 

Skilled Migration

Types under the Australian Skilled Migration Programs

·         General Skilled Migration

·         Employer Nomination

·         Business Skills Migration

·         Distinguished Talent

 

Family Stream

Immediate family of Australian Citizens & PRs

·         Partner Visas

·         Dependent Child Visas

·         Parent Visas

·         Relative & Carer Visas

Regional Initiatives Attracts skilled migrants to regional and rural areas to cater to demands of the local labour market
Temporary Migration Popular Temporary migration programs to Australia is fast becoming the first step towards permanent settlement in the country

 

  • Immigration pathways for the US
US Immigration Categories Purpose
Family-Based Immigration It allows US citizens and LPRs to bring in certain family members to the United States
Employment-Based Immigration There are various ways through which immigrants with valuable skills can come into US on temporary or permanent status like H1B, L1 and L2 visas
Per-Country Ceilings The INA places a limit on how many immigrants can come into the US from any one country
 

Refugees & Asylees

For people fleeing persecution or are unable to return to their homeland due to extraordinary circumstances
 

Diversity Visa Program

It is a lottery system designed by the US immigration act dedicated for immigrants from countries with low rates of immigration to the US.
 

Other Forms of Humanitarian Relief

The three subcategories under this are:

·         Temporary Protected Status (TPS)

·         Deferred Enforced Departure (DED)

·         Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA)

United States Citizenship Individuals are required to have LPR status or a green card for at least five years to become a citizen of the United States

 

Conclusion

If you are considering immigration, both Australia and the United States are excellent choices.

 

Australia

Australia, being a developed country, has an excellent reputation for embracing immigrants. It has a robust economy and is a desirable location with numerous well-paying employment. Australia is one of the greatest countries in the world to live, with a contemporary lifestyle and good living standards.

 

The United States

The United States is the most popular destination for those seeking a better living since it has the world’s greatest economy. It boasts the finest of everything the globe has to offer in terms of education, technology, entertainment, nightlife, and so on.

 

When comparing the H1B visa in the United States to the PR visa in Australia

 

Aspects US H1B Visa Australia PR
Job Opportunities Many Options Rewarding Opportunities
Average Working Hours 34.4 hours per week 41 hours a week
Job Security Unreliable Reliable
Annual Leave 10-days paid vacation per year 4 weeks per year
Average Salary $40,000 per year $84,968 per year
Average Tax 19% 15%
Cost of Living $1,100 – $1,300 Per Month $2,365 Per Month
Healthcare No Free Treatments Medicare Coverage
Cost of Education (Graduation) $20,000 – $45,000 Per Year $20,000 – $42,000 Per Year
Scope for Citizenship Hold a Green Card for 3 Years After 4 Years of Australian PR

 

How Can Prominent Assist?

Prominent Overseas Careers specialises in Permanent Residency Visas, Work Visas, Study Visas, Temporary Visas, and Dependent Visas to Australia, Canada, the United Kingdom, the United States, and Germany, among other countries.

In addition to these services, Prominent provides its clients with customised services such as:

Profile Evaluation: Professional advice based on an in-depth evaluation of the client’s profile to establish visa success possibilities.

Documents & Review: Detailed, error-free documents created to fulfil certain forms dependent on the visa category.

A dedicated Case Officer: A specialist who will help customers throughout the procedure.

Visa Filing: Prominent guarantees that all standard standards of concerned immigration authorities and regulatory organisations are met.

Visa & Interview: Aspirants who attend visa interviews with verified papers are given guidance.

After receiving their visas, Prominent assists customers in settling down in their new nation with a comfortable stay.

 

Additional assistance provided to job searchers include:

Resume Writing: We have a dedicated team of resume professionals that will write the finest resumes to suit the requirements of immigration authorities and potential employers. This considerably increases their chances of being chosen.

Profile Marketing: Prominent is well-known for developing best-in-class portfolios that increase candidate profiles in job-search engines.

Optional services For students in need of a study visa:

Admission Counseling: Comparisons of the finest programmes, universities, and countries to study in, including planned mentorship from current students.

Admission Essays, Student CV, Statement of purpose (SOP), Letter of recommendations (LOR), and other critical services are provided by a professional staff.

Scholarships and Financial Aid: Assist in locating the finest Scholarship programmes, Education loans, Study abroad loans, and also assist in locating paid internships.

Begin your visa application today!

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