Migrating to another country can be a life-changing decision, offering new opportunities for work, study, and overall better living standards. If you’re an African or Asian considering migrating to another country, it’s essential to know which destinations are easier to migrate to and offer a smoother pathway to permanent residency (PR). As you read on, we’ll explore the 10 easiest countries to migrate to, covering everything from visa types, application processes, and the road to permanent residency.
1. Canada
Why Canada?
Canada is known for its diverse culture, friendly immigration policies, and high quality of life. It actively seeks skilled immigrants to contribute to its economy, making it one of the most accessible countries to migrate to.
Visa Types:
- Express Entry (Federal Skilled Worker Program, Federal Skilled Trades Program, Canadian Experience Class)
- Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)
- Student Visa
Road to Permanent Residency (PR):
Express Entry and PNP are the most popular routes for skilled immigrants to get PR. After studying in Canada on a student visa, you can apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), eventually leading to PR.
How to Apply:
- Create an Express Entry profile and receive a score based on age, work experience, education, and language skills.
- Provincial Nominee Programs require you to apply directly to a specific province.
Useful Links:
2. New Zealand
Why New Zealand?
New Zealand offers a peaceful environment, a strong economy, and a balanced work-life culture. It is also known for its relatively straightforward visa process.
Visa Types:
- Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa
- Long-Term Skill Shortage List Work Visa
- Student Visa
Road to Permanent Residency (PR):
The Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa provides a pathway to PR based on your skills and qualifications. Those on the Long-Term Skill Shortage List Work Visa can also apply for PR after two years of work experience.
How to Apply:
- Submit an expression of interest (EOI) for the Skilled Migrant Visa.
- Apply for a work or study visa depending on your situation.
Useful Links:
3. Germany
Why Germany?
Germany has a robust economy and actively welcomes skilled workers, especially in engineering, healthcare, and IT sectors. The country has a variety of visa pathways to suit different backgrounds.
Visa Types:
- Job Seeker Visa
- EU Blue Card
- Student Visa
Road to Permanent Residency (PR):
The EU Blue Card offers a pathway to PR for highly skilled professionals. After 33 months (or 21 months if you are proficient in German), you may apply for PR. Graduates of German universities can apply for PR after working for two years.
How to Apply:
- Secure a job offer for a work visa or study offer for a student visa.
- Apply for a Job Seeker Visa if you wish to seek employment in Germany.
Useful Links:
4. Australia
Why Australia?
Australia boasts a strong economy, multicultural society, and ample job opportunities. With its transparent immigration policies, it remains a top destination for skilled workers and students.
Visa Types:
- Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189)
- Employer-Sponsored Visa
- Student Visa
Road to Permanent Residency (PR):
The Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189) allows skilled workers to live and work permanently in Australia. Employer-sponsored visas also offer a route to PR after fulfilling certain conditions.
How to Apply:
- For the Skilled Visa, submit an EOI through the SkillSelect system.
- Secure a job or study offer if applying for employer-sponsored or student visas.
Useful Links:
5. Portugal
Why Portugal?
Portugal is an attractive country for its friendly visa policies, pleasant climate, and affordable cost of living. The country has simplified its immigration process, making it easier to move there.
Visa Types:
- D7 Visa (Passive Income Visa)
- Golden Visa Program
- Student Visa
Road to Permanent Residency (PR):
After five years of living in Portugal on any legal visa, you may apply for PR or citizenship. The D7 and Golden Visa Programs are popular for investors and retirees.
How to Apply:
- Apply for the D7 Visa if you have passive income or savings.
- The Golden Visa Program is suitable for those investing in real estate or creating jobs in Portugal.
Useful Links:
6. Ireland
Why Ireland?
Ireland offers a high standard of living and one of the easiest pathways to residency and citizenship in Europe. Its friendly immigration policies make it a popular choice.
Visa Types:
- General Employment Permit
- Critical Skills Employment Permit
- Student Visa
Road to Permanent Residency (PR):
After working for five years on an Employment Permit, you may be eligible for PR. Those on a Critical Skills Permit can apply for PR after two years.
How to Apply:
- Obtain an employment offer for an Employment Permit.
- For study purposes, apply for a student visa.
Useful Links:
7. United Arab Emirates (UAE)
Why UAE?
The UAE, particularly Dubai and Abu Dhabi, is known for its lucrative job market, cosmopolitan lifestyle, and relatively easy immigration process for workers.
Visa Types:
- Work Visa (Employment Visa)
- Golden Visa for Entrepreneurs, Investors, and Highly Skilled Workers
Road to Permanent Residency (PR):
While the UAE does not offer PR as traditionally defined, the Golden Visa grants long-term residency of 5-10 years to qualified individuals.
How to Apply:
- Secure a job offer for a work visa.
- Apply for the Golden Visa based on specific criteria like investment, talent, or entrepreneurship.
Useful Links:
8. Singapore
Why Singapore?
Singapore is one of the easiest countries to migrate to for skilled workers, investors, and entrepreneurs. It offers a modern lifestyle, excellent healthcare, and world-class education.
Visa Types:
- Employment Pass (EP)
- EntrePass (Entrepreneur Pass)
- Student Pass
Road to Permanent Residency (PR):
After living and working in Singapore for a few years on a valid Employment Pass or EntrePass, you can apply for PR through the Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA).
How to Apply:
- Secure a job offer for the Employment Pass.
- Apply for EntrePass if you’re an entrepreneur.
Useful Links:
9. Mexico
Why Mexico?
Mexico offers a diverse culture, affordable living costs, and friendly immigration policies. It’s a popular destination for those seeking a laid-back lifestyle.
Visa Types:
- Temporary Resident Visa
- Permanent Resident Visa
Road to Permanent Residency (PR):
The Temporary Resident Visa allows you to live in Mexico for up to four years, after which you can apply for a Permanent Resident Visa.
How to Apply:
- Prove financial solvency or have a job offer in Mexico.
- Apply for the Temporary Resident Visa as a stepping stone to PR.
Useful Links:
10. Spain
Why Spain?
Spain’s warm climate, vibrant culture, and welcoming attitude make it a top choice for migrants. It also has various visa options for different categories of immigrants.
**Visa Types
:**
- Non-Lucrative Visa
- Golden Visa (Investor Visa)
- Student Visa
Road to Permanent Residency (PR):
You can apply for PR after living in Spain for five years on a legal visa. The Golden Visa Program is attractive for those investing in real estate.
How to Apply:
- The Non-Lucrative Visa is for those who can financially support themselves without working.
- The Golden Visa requires a significant real estate investment.
Useful Links:
Final Steps to Getting Started with Migration
Now that you’ve explored the 10 easiest countries to migrate to as an African or Asian, it’s important to know how to get started. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you prepare for your migration journey:
Step 1: Research the Country’s Visa and Residency Requirements
The first step is to dive deep into the visa requirements of your chosen destination. Each country has different eligibility criteria for work, study, or other visas, and it’s crucial to understand which type of visa suits your background and goals. Factors to consider:
- Skill Requirements: Does the country have a shortage of skills that match your profile?
- Financial Requirements: Are there specific financial thresholds you need to meet (proof of funds, salary)?
- Language Proficiency: Do you need to demonstrate language skills (like IELTS or TOEFL for English-speaking countries)?
Step 2: Prepare the Necessary Documents
Every visa application requires supporting documents, such as:
- Valid Passport: Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended stay.
- Educational and Professional Certificates: Get your documents translated and authenticated if necessary.
- Proof of Funds: Bank statements, salary slips, and financial affidavits.
- Medical and Police Clearance Certificates: Depending on the country, you may need to undergo a medical examination and get a police clearance for criminal records.
Helpful Tip: Always keep multiple copies (hard and soft) of all important documents.
Step 3: Submit Your Application and Track It
After collecting your documents:
- Create an Online Profile: Many countries like Canada and Australia require you to create an online profile for visa applications.
- Submit Your Application: Submit your application either online or at the embassy/consulate of your chosen country.
- Pay the Necessary Fees: Visa fees vary by country and type of visa. Some countries also require an additional application processing fee.
- Track Your Application: Most countries provide online tracking so you can keep an eye on the progress of your application.
Useful Tools for Application Tracking:
- Canada: IRCC Check Status
- Australia: VEVO System
Step 4: Prepare for Arrival and Settlement
Once you receive your visa approval:
- Book Your Travel Tickets: Book flights and arrange accommodations in your new country.
- Arrange for Healthcare and Insurance: Many countries require immigrants to have health insurance coverage before arrival.
- Plan for Finances: Open a bank account if possible before arrival, or make arrangements for transferring funds.
Country-Specific Tips for Easy Transition
- Canada: Upon arrival, make sure to apply for a Social Insurance Number (SIN) to work, pay taxes, and access government services. Also, explore settlement services like language classes and job assistance.
- New Zealand: You can find support and information on living and working in New Zealand through New Zealand Now. They provide resources for finding housing, employment, and understanding local laws.
- Germany: For finding accommodation, consider websites like Immobilienscout24 or WG-Gesucht for flat-sharing options. You may also need to register your address within two weeks of arrival.
- Australia: Register for Medicare, Australia’s health insurance system, as soon as you land. Also, it is helpful to get familiar with MyGov – a single login for access to government services like job search and tax information.
- Portugal: Make sure to apply for a NIF (Número de Identificação Fiscal), which is your tax identification number in Portugal. You’ll need it for most financial transactions, including opening a bank account or signing a lease.
- Ireland: Upon arrival, apply for a Personal Public Service (PPS) Number which is essential for accessing social welfare, public services, and employment.
- United Arab Emirates (UAE): Setting up a bank account in the UAE requires a residence visa, Emirates ID, and proof of address. Many expats choose Dubai for its vibrant lifestyle and expatriate-friendly policies.
- Singapore: Make use of One Motoring to understand transport, driving rules, and even car ownership in Singapore. Register for SingPass to access government services.
- Mexico: Expats typically find affordable housing, and you can start your search through websites like Vivanuncios. You should also apply for the CURP (Unique Population Registry Code), which is a unique identity code in Mexico.
- Spain: To smoothly integrate into Spanish society, learning basic Spanish is beneficial. Enroll in language classes through organizations like the Instituto Cervantes. Also, register with your local town hall upon arrival to get your Empadronamiento certificate, which is necessary for various administrative tasks.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Which country offers the easiest path to citizenship for immigrants from Africa and Asia?
Canada and Portugal are among the countries that offer relatively easy pathways to citizenship. In Canada, permanent residents can apply for citizenship after three years of residency. In Portugal, residents can apply for citizenship after five years of living in the country.
2. Can I work while waiting for my permanent residency status?
It depends on the country and the type of visa you have. For example, in Canada, most work visas allow you to work while your PR application is being processed. In countries like Germany and Australia, work visas can also lead to PR status.
3. What is the best visa option for entrepreneurs and investors?
The Golden Visa Programs in countries like Portugal, Spain, and the UAE are designed for investors and entrepreneurs looking to settle and do business. Similarly, the EntrePass in Singapore is an ideal option for business owners.
4. Do I need to speak the local language to apply for residency or citizenship?
Language requirements vary by country. For example, Canada requires proficiency in English or French for certain immigration programs. Germany requires a basic level of German for PR applications, while Spain and Portugal may also have language requirements for naturalization.
5. How long does it take to get PR in most of these countries?
It generally takes between 2-5 years to qualify for permanent residency in most of these countries, depending on your visa type and situation. Some countries offer faster routes for highly skilled workers, investors, and entrepreneurs.
Key Takeaways
- Assess Your Goals and Preferences: Each country offers unique benefits, job markets, and lifestyles. Choose a destination that aligns with your professional skills, language proficiency, and lifestyle preferences.
- Understand the Visa Pathway: Different countries offer different routes to permanent residency, so understanding each pathway’s requirements and application process is crucial.
- Prepare Financially and Culturally: Make sure to meet all financial requirements and take steps to integrate into the culture of your new country.
- Seek Professional Help When Needed: If the process seems complex, you can consider consulting with a licensed immigration consultant or lawyer to guide you through the application process.
Final Thoughts
Migrating to a new country can open up a world of opportunities for you and your family. Whether you’re looking for a better work-life balance, higher education opportunities, or a new cultural experience, the countries listed above provide some of the most welcoming and accessible paths to migration. Start your research, prepare your documents, and take the first step towards a new life abroad!
Good luck with your migration journey!
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