Moving to another country can be an exciting but complex journey. For many Canadians, Australia is an attractive destination due to its laid-back lifestyle, excellent healthcare, warm climate, and shared language. But in 2025, is it easy for Canadians to move to Australia?
The short answer is yes, it’s possible—but not necessarily easy. It depends on your visa type, qualifications, job prospects, and long-term plans. In this comprehensive blog, we’ll explore all aspects of Canadian immigration to Australia in 2025—from visa options and eligibility requirements to job opportunities and lifestyle comparisons.
Why Do Canadians Want to Move to Australia?
Before diving into logistics, let’s look at why Canada-to-Australia migration is common:
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Mild climate and sunny weather
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English-speaking country with similar values
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Higher wages in some industries
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Adventure and travel opportunities
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Mutual respect between both nations
Both countries have strong diplomatic ties and share agreements that make migration somewhat more streamlined than for citizens of other countries.
Do Canadians Need a Visa to Move to Australia in 2025?
Yes. Even though relations are friendly, Canadians need a visa to live, work, or study in Australia. Your visa type depends on your reason for moving and your personal background.
Here are the main visa options available in 2025:
1. Skilled Migration Visas
Australia has a point-based immigration system that favors skilled workers. If you’re a Canadian with experience in an in-demand profession, this route is often the easiest.
Popular skilled visas include:
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Subclass 189 – Skilled Independent Visa
No sponsorship required. Must meet point requirements and pass a skills assessment. -
Subclass 190 – Skilled Nominated Visa
Requires nomination by an Australian state or territory. -
Subclass 491 – Skilled Work Regional Visa
A temporary visa for skilled workers in regional areas, valid for up to 5 years with a pathway to permanent residency.
What You’ll Need:
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A recognized occupation on Australia’s skilled occupation list (SOL)
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Skills assessment from a relevant Australian authority
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Meet the English proficiency requirements (IELTS or PTE)
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Pass a health and character check
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Expression of Interest (EOI) submission through SkillSelect
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Score enough points (based on age, education, experience, etc.)
2. Working Holiday Visa (Subclass 417)
This is the easiest route for young Canadians aged 18–35 who want to live and work in Australia temporarily.
Key Features:
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12-month validity with an option to extend
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Work and travel freely across the country
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Can study short-term (up to 4 months)
Eligibility:
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Must hold a valid Canadian passport
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Meet health and character requirements
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Have proof of sufficient funds (~AUD $5,000)
Note: As of 2025, Canadians can apply for up to 3 working holiday visas if they meet regional work requirements.
3. Employer Sponsored Visas
If you have a job offer from an Australian employer, you may be eligible for:
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Subclass 482 – Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) Visa
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Subclass 186 – Employer Nomination Scheme (Permanent)
These require your employer to act as a sponsor and provide proof that the role cannot be filled by an Australian citizen or PR holder.
4. Student Visa (Subclass 500)
Many Canadians choose to study in Australia first, which can lead to longer-term residency.
Benefits:
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Live in Australia for the duration of your course
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Work up to 48 hours per fortnight (or unlimited hours during breaks)
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Gain Australian qualifications, which improve PR chances
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Eligible for Post-Study Work Visa (485) after graduation
5. Partner or Family Visas
If your spouse or partner is an Australian citizen or permanent resident, you can apply for:
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Partner Visa (Subclass 820/801) – if applying inside Australia
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Partner Visa (Subclass 309/100) – if applying from outside Australia
There are also visas for parents, dependent children, and other family members—though processing times can be long.
How Difficult Is It to Get an Australian Visa as a Canadian in 2025?
While Canadians generally have a good reputation and a high English proficiency rate (both advantages), the visa process is still competitive and strict. Here’s a breakdown:
Easier If You:
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Work in a skilled trade or high-demand profession
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Are under 35 and healthy
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Have good English test scores (IELTS, PTE, TOEFL)
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Have a job offer or sponsorship
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Are pursuing higher education in Australia
More Difficult If You:
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Are over 45 (not eligible for many skilled visas)
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Have limited education or work experience
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Do not meet minimum English standards
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Have a medical or criminal issue
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Lack sufficient funds or ties to Australia
Top In-Demand Jobs in Australia in 2025
If you’re looking to qualify through skilled migration or employment, here are some of the most in-demand occupations in 2025:
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Healthcare Professionals (nurses, general practitioners)
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IT & Cybersecurity Experts
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Engineers (civil, mechanical, software)
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Tradespeople (electricians, plumbers, carpenters)
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Teachers (especially math and science)
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Construction and Mining Specialists
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Chefs and Hospitality Managers
You can view the full Skilled Occupation List (SOL) on the official Home Affairs website.
What Is the Cost of Moving from Canada to Australia?
Here’s a general cost breakdown (in Canadian dollars):
| Expense | Estimated Cost (CAD) |
|---|---|
| Visa application fees | $250 – $4,000+ |
| Medical and police checks | $300 – $600 |
| Flight to Australia | $1,000 – $2,000 |
| Travel insurance | $200 – $500 |
| Proof of funds (working holiday) | $5,000 minimum |
| Initial rent and deposit | $2,000 – $4,000 |
| Miscellaneous setup (transport, groceries) | $1,000+ |
Total estimated cost: $9,000 – $15,000 CAD
Living in Australia vs. Canada: What to Expect
| Factor | Australia | Canada |
|---|---|---|
| Climate | Warm and sunny | Cold winters |
| Language | English | English & French |
| Healthcare | Universal (Medicare) | Universal |
| Education | Excellent, global ranking | Excellent, global ranking |
| Cost of living | High in cities | High in cities |
| Lifestyle | Outdoor-oriented | Balanced urban/rural |
| Wildlife | Diverse and exotic | Less tropical, more forested |
Do You Need a Migration Agent?
Not necessarily. Many Canadians apply successfully on their own using the Australian immigration portal. However, if your case is complex, a Registered Migration Agent (RMA) can guide you and help improve your chances of approval.
Always verify that the agent is certified by MARA (Migration Agents Registration Authority).
Tips to Make the Move Easier in 2025
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Start early. Some visas take months to process.
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Keep your documents organized. Especially passport, education, employment letters, and finances.
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Take your English test seriously. It can make or break your points.
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Apply for jobs ahead of time. Having an offer improves your visa chances.
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Prepare financially. The initial months in Australia can be expensive.
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Stay updated. Immigration rules can change frequently. Always check Home Affairs.
Conclusion: Is It Easy for Canadians to Move to Australia in 2025?
Yes, it is feasible—but it requires planning, the right visa, and sometimes patience.
Canadians have a slight edge because of shared language, education, and diplomatic ties. But Australia’s immigration system is still strict and favors skilled, young, and adaptable migrants.
Whether you’re looking for a temporary adventure or a permanent new home, moving from Canada to Australia in 2025 is achievable with the right approach.