10 best countries to migrate from India in 2025 – An Ultimate Guide
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This article covers:
The 10 best countries to migrate from India are Canada, the USA, Australia, Singapore, the UK, New Zealand, Germany, the Netherlands, the UAE and Switzerland.
Many countries worldwide have been easing immigration formalities, providing better opportunities for Indians. As of 2024, over 35 million Indians live overseas. People look for the best country to settle down by considering factors such as higher education, career opportunities and a better lifestyle.
Migrating from India to a foreign country can open up a world of exciting opportunities for a fresh start with new experiences. for you. However, every country has a unique set of immigration laws. While one may be the easiest country to migrate from India, others may be the hardest country to get citizenship or even travel temporarily.
Here’s a quick glance of the best places to settle abroad for Indians and their basic immigration processes and eligibility criteria.
Quick Overview: Top 10 ranking countries to migrate from India (Rankwise):
- Canada
- The United States of America
- Australia
- Singapore
- The United Kingdom
- The New Zealand
- Germany
- The Netherlands
- United Arab Emirates
- Switzerland
Read further to learn more about the best countries to migrate from India in detail.
Top 10 immigration-friendly countries
Canada
Canada is the most loved destination for immigrants not only from India but also from the rest of the world. It is one of the most PR-friendly countries in the world, and Indians go to the country to seek job opportunities and get high-quality higher education.
As an immigrant, you can enjoy several benefits in Canada, which include free education, healthcare benefits, and social security benefits. The country has easy visa norms, and you can go to Canada on a tourist visa, student visa, work visa, PR visa, or Express Entry Program visa.
Canada Immigration Process
- Express Entry Program Visa: The Express Entry program is exclusively for skilled workers. You can apply for the Express Entry for three immigration programs: Canadian Experience Class, Federal Skilled Worker Program and Federal Skilled Trades Program. You can create a profile and appear for the rounds of invitations. Candidates with the most points will be invited to proceed further.
- Provincial Nominee Program: This is an immigration process for those who wish to move, live and become permanent residents in a specific province or territory in Canada. It applies to students, skilled workers, semi-skilled workers and business people. Each province will have its own overseas immigration programs (streams) to qualify the eligible applicants.
- Quebec Skilled Worker Program: You can migrate to Quebec if you hold the Quebec Selection Certificate issued by the Government of Quebec. To apply for this program, you need to submit the permanent residence application form with all the necessary documents, including police certificates.
- Family Sponsorship Program: If your family members live in Canada, they may also be eligible to sponsor you to live, study and work there. This can apply to the spouse, dependent children, adopted children, parents and grandparents.
Eligibility Criteria to Migrate to Canada
While every immigration program has its own unique requirements, here are some common aspects that you need to consider for permanent citizenship in Canada:
- IELTS/ CELPIP score
- Comprehensive Ranking Score (CRS) Score
- French proficiency for certain parts of Canada
- Professional profile
- Work experience
- Educational background
- References
- Legal documents
- Employment letter or education letter
- Proof of financial stability
- Health reports
The United States of America
The USA is one of the countries with the most immigrants globally. In 2023, the number of immigrants in the USA reached a record 47.8 million, marking an increase of 1.6 million from the previous year. This is the largest annual rise in over two decades since 2000.
Indians commonly go to the USA for high-paying jobs to provide financial support to their families back home. As an immigrant in the USA, you can enjoy several benefits, such as excellent work and education opportunities, equal rights and freedom, access to advanced healthcare facilities, and more.
US Immigration Process
If you are seeking an immigrant visa to the USA, you must be sponsored by a U.S. citizen or a lawful permanent resident who can be a U.S. employer or an immediate relative. Your sponsor has to file a petition with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) and further proceed with the immigration process, which includes online application, gathering documents and appearing for the interview.
If you’re an Indian immigrant looking to send money to India, there are various financial services available to facilitate these transactions.
Eligibility Criteria to Migrate to The United States
The requirements vary depending on the type of petition applied. Here are some of the key aspects that you need to consider.
- Proof of sponsorship
- Proof of education
- Proof of financial stability
- Employment history
- Medical reports
Australia
Australia is next on the list of good countries to migrate from India. The beautiful country is welcoming to deserving people from all over the world and offers multiple programs to help immigrants integrate into the country’s rich culture and work environment.
The country has a special program called the SkillSelect for skilled workers who wish to live and work in Australia. It requires an application for the Expression of Interest (EOI) to be invited to apply for the skilled visa.
Australian Immigration Process
You can go to Australia from India by choosing from a wide range of visa types, such as a Permanent Residence Visa, a Resident Visa, a Confirmatory Residence Return Visa, and a Special Category Visa.
To get a permanent residency considering your work, you can consider applying for sponsored visas (subclasses 186, 187, 482, 491 and 494). Ensure that you get your sponsorship from a standard business sponsor and get your skill assessment done by the concerned assessment authority.
Eligibility Criteria to Migrate to Australia
- English proficiency test score.
- Relevant job experience.
- Medical clearance certificate.
- Clearance certificate from the police.
- Travel documents
- Proof of family relationship
Singapore
Singapore is an ideal destination for Indian immigrants who want to stay in Asia, as it is relatively close to home and still has ample opportunities for work abroad. Moreover, the country is popular for its excellent education system and extensive research programs for students.
Singapore Immigration Process
Singapore is also one of the easiest countries to migrate from India, and it has several immigration schemes. Professionals, Technical Personnel, and Skilled Workers (PTS) can apply for an Employment Pass, S Pass or Personalized Employment Pass. A spouse, dependent children and dependent parents can also apply for the Permanent Residency in Singapore. The application can be made online at the ICA website.
- Singapore immigration process for professionals: You can get an Employment Pass in Singapore if you are an executive, manager, professional, or job candidate with a minimum monthly salary of $5000. On top of that, you can get a Personalized Employment Pass if you are an existing employment pass holder with a high salary or an international professional.
- Singapore immigration process for skilled and semi-skilled workers: You can get an S Pass if you are a mid-level skilled worker and earn a minimum monthly salary of $3000.
A semi-skilled foreign worker working in various fields such as construction, manufacturing, or service industry can get a work permit. Moreover, a foreign domestic worker can get a Work Permit for foreign domestic workers in the country.
Eligibility Criteria to Migrate to Singapore
Every immigration scheme has different requirements. Here are a few common requirements you can consider.
- Educational qualification
- Professional qualification
- Work experience
- A valid pass (Employment, S or Personalized Employment Pass)
- Proof of relationship
- Business experience for investors (Global Investor Programme)
The United Kingdom
The United Kingdom has been another favourite destination for Indians to pursue higher education and work internationally. The country provides a high standard of living, quality education at some of the top universities in the world, and ample opportunities for immigrant workers, making it one of the best countries to immigrate from India in 2025.
As a skilled worker, you can work in several sectors in the UK, like finance, medicine, law, IT, engineering, accounting, etc. Immigrants can get long-term work visas, short-term work visas, and several other categories of visas with varying benefits and eligibility criteria.
UK Immigration Process
You can migrate to the UK from India through various pathways, such as with a job offer,, as the spouse of a UK citizen, as an investor, or as an entrepreneur. To begin, you need to first apply for a suitable visa.
After securing the visa, you need to stay in the UK for the required qualifying period. Then, apply for the Indefinite Leave to Remain, which typically lasts for 12 months. Once this period is completed, you can apply for British citizenship.
Eligibility Criteria to Migrate to the UK
The eligibility criteria can differ for the specific visa type. Here are a few aspects that you can consider while preparing for your permanent residence in the UK.
- Educational qualifications
- English language proficiency
- PTE score for students
- Skilled worker visa applicants need to get a score of 70 in the point system
- Job offer
- Proof of relationship
- Proof of admission to an educational institution
- Proof of financial stability
New Zealand
Now Zealand is a safe and peaceful country with ample job opportunities and a welcoming environment. The country boasts of a high life expectancy, subsidized medical care, and a healthy lifestyle in general.
New Zealand is one of the best countries to migrate from India, and you can pursue your higher education and make a career there. The country has several permanent residency facilities and benefits and post-education work permits for deserving international students.
New Zealand Immigration Process
To move to New Zealand, you first need to apply for an appropriate visa. It can be based on work, study, joining your family, etc. You can explore and select a visa and apply for a visa online based on your requirements and eligibility criteria.
After fulfilling the requirements applicable to the specific visa category, you can apply for permanent residence in New Zealand. For example, if you want to apply for a Permanent Resident visa, you should have held the resident visa for more than 2 years.
Eligibility Criteria to Migrate to New Zealand
The eligibility criteria will differ depending on the type of visa. Keep a note of these common pointers while planning to move to New Zealand.
- Proof of identity
- Proof of good character – Police Certificates
- Medical certificates
- Educational qualifications
- Work experience
- Job offer
- RealMe account
- Non-principal applicants will not be offered the Permanent Resident visa before the principal applicant
Germany
Germany has a promising work environment and millions of job opportunities for locals as well as immigrants. You can pursue your higher education in Germany and pave the path for permanent residency and a flourishing career in the country.
Germany has lenient overseas immigration policies, and there are multiple visa categories available, including student visas, training visas, job search visas, guest scientist visas, and many more.
Germany Immigration Process
If you want to move to Germany and live there permanently, you need to apply for a settlement permit. The settlement permit is applicable to skilled workers, highly skilled workers, self-employed, and spouses of skilled workers. With a settlement permit, you can live with your family in Germany without any limitations.
You must apply for a student visa to pursue academics there. Once you complete your education In Germany, you can stay back in the country for a prescribed period to search for a job.
Eligibility Criteria to Migrate to Germany
The eligibility criteria and the documents required vary for the different types of Germany visas. Here are a few important aspects that you need to know.
- Proof of financial stability.
- Basic German language skills.
- Health insurance certificate
- Proof of employment from a German employer
- Complete set of German visa application documents.
The Netherlands
The Netherlands has become one of the best places to settle abroad for Indians. It is known for its beauty and tranquility. According to the World Happiness Report 2024, the Netherlands ranks 6th in the world.
The globally renowned Dutch education system, abundant research opportunities, robust job market and multicultural environment make the Netherlands an exceptionally inviting place to live.
The Netherlands Immigration Process
You can apply for the residence permit with the Immigration and Naturalisation (IND) Service in the Netherlands. It can be any reason, such as for study, work or joining your family.
To complete the process, submit the specific application form along with the required documents. In many cases, a sponsor such as a recognised employer, educational institution or family member will be required. You may also be asked to apply for the authorisation for temporary stay (MVV).
The residence permit will be approved for 5 years, after which you will be eligible for permanent residence.
Eligibility Criteria to Migrate to the Netherlands
The eligibility criteria will depend on the specific type of residence permit you apply for. Here are the important aspects that you need to consider.
- Proof of sponsorship
- Educational background
- Job offer
- Proof of financial stability
- Medical records
- Proof of accommodation
- A valid health insurance
The United Arab Emirates
The UAE is an attractive destination for immigrant workers, especially for its tax policies. Expats are not required to pay a tax on their income, inheritance, gifts, or capital gains in the UAE. The country has a high percentage of foreign expats, and Indians often move to the country for a superior lifestyle and better earning opportunities.
UAE Immigration Process
You can move and settle in the UAE with a residence visa. It allows you to stay for up to 10 years and get extended further. While the concept of permanent residence does not exist, the residence visa offers similar benefits.
You can proceed with the process for a residence visa by applying for a work visa, family visa or a student visa. You can also set up a business, get a property investor visa for 2 years by buying a property worth 750,000 AED or apply for a Golden visa.
Eligibility Criteria to Migrate to the UAE
- Visa approval from the authorities.
- Your medical screening results.
- An entry permit.
- A copy of your employer’s commercial license.
- Employer contract
- Employer sponsorship
- Proof of identity
- Proof of residence
Switzerland
For Indians considering migration, safety is always a crucial factor, and Switzerland ranks among the safest countries in the world.
As a major financial hub, Switzerland is home to well-established companies across various sectors, including finance, technology, and pharmaceuticals. It offers extensive high-standard jobs with attractive packages. These factors make Switzerland an excellent destination for Indians looking for options to settle abroad.
Switzerland Immigration Process
To get a permanent residence permit in Switzerland, you must first apply for a Swiss long-stay visa. It can be for a family, study or work visa. After obtaining the long-stay visa, the next step is to apply for a residence permit through the cantonal immigration offices in Switzerland.
Once you have the residence permit, you must stay in Switzerland for 10 continuous years. After this period, you will be eligible for the Swiss Permanent Residence Permit (C Permit).
Eligibility Criteria to Migrate to Switzerland
The eligibility criteria will vary based on your type of visa application to move to Switzerland. Here are a few key pointers that you can consider.
- Educational background
- Job offer
- Long-stay visa
- A valid permit
- Proof of residence for 10 years
- Proof of financial stability
- Clean criminal record
- Health Insurance
Population of Overseas Indians
Top 10 Countries | Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) | Persons of Indian Origin (PIOs) | Total Overseas Indian |
USA | 20,77,158 | 33,31,904 | 54,09,062 |
UAE | 35,54,274 | 14,574 | 35,68,848 |
Canada | 10,16,274 | 18,59,680 | 28,75,954 |
UK | 3,69,000 | 14,95,318 | 18,64,318 |
Australia | 3,50,000 | 6,26,000 | 9,76,000 |
Singapore | 3,50,000 | 3,00,000 | 6,50,000 |
New Zealand | 1,50,000 | 1,20,000 | 2,70,000 |
Germany | 2,08,000 | 52,864 | 2,60,864 |
Netherlands | 50,787 | 1,78,000 | 2,28,787 |
Switzerland | 17,059 | 8,996 | 26,055 |
Source: Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India
Before you go…
Indians are migrating to various countries globally to attain higher education, enhance their skill set, work with the best companies, and settle abroad for a better quality of life. You can move to a country that has an easy immigration process and earn a handsome salary, which will help you financially support your family and relatives in India. You can also take the student route and move overseas on a student visa.
As you settle abroad, you may come across the need to send money from your foreign destination to your family in India. Instarem makes this process simple, swift* and affordable#. Explore destinations, live your dream and stay financially secure and independent!
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FAQ’s
Q. Which country is easiest to migrate from India?
Canada is the easiest country to migrate from India. You can also easily migrate to several other countries, such as the United States of America, Australia, Norway, Germany, and New Zealand, according to your preference.
Q. Which country is best for Indian workers?
The United Arab Emirates, Singapore, and Germany are some of the best countries for Indian workers. These countries offer ample work opportunities and have easy immigration policies to allow foreign workers to study, earn, and settle.
Q. Which country has the highest number of Indian immigrants
The United States of America has the highest number of Indian immigrants. The number of immigrants in the country has increased by over 400% in the last few decades. More than 44 lakh Indians live in the US.
Q. Which country gives PR easily from India?
- Canada: Fast-track PR via Express Entry & PNP, leading to citizenship.
- Australia: Point-based PR system with multiple visa options for skilled workers.
- New Zealand: Skilled Migrant Visa offers a direct path to residency.
- Germany: Job-seeker visa leads to PR after employment.
- United Kingdom: Skilled Worker Visa & Innovator Visa offer PR opportunities.
These countries provide straightforward PR pathways with strong job markets for Indians.
Q. What are the main factors to consider when choosing a country to immigrate to?
Job opportunities, education, quality of life, and living costs are key factors driving many Indians to migrate.
Q. Which is the cheapest country to settle for Indians?
Vietnam is the most affordable country for Indians to settle in, followed by Colombia, Indonesia, Panama, Mexico, Thailand & Brazil. These countries offer a lower costs of living, making them ideal for expats.
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- How to get a job in Canada from India
- How to get a job in Singapore from India
- How to get a job in London from India
- How to get a job in Germany from India
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Disclaimer: This article is intended for informational purposes only. All details are accurate at the time of publishing. Instarem has no affiliation or relationship with products or vendors mentioned.