10 Best Countries to Migrate from India 2025

The best countries to migrate to from India are Canada, the USA, the UK, the UAE, Singapore, Australia, New Zealand, Germany, Malta, and Switzerland. These countries are prominent for a high standard of living, excellent schools, a better startup ecosystem, cultural diversity, and more. Moreover, these countries are expat-friendly, offering numerous visas and permanent residency (PR) options. By taking advantage of these opportunities, many Indians have started moving toward the western hemisphere and living abroad. According to the UN’s World Migration Report 2022, more than 18 million Indians live abroad, having left their home country.

Indians thinking about starting a new life abroad can find it both exciting and daunting. Nevertheless, many Indians are already giving up their citizenship in search of a better future or for other reasons. Consequently, the number of Indians renouncing their citizenship was 163,370 (in 2021), 225,620 (in 2022) and 87,026 (till June 2023). 

Migrating from India to a foreign country opens a whole new world— neighbourhood, friends and colleagues. Since every country has their own set of immigration laws, one may be the easiest country to migrate from India, e.g: the USA, Canada, Malta, and others may be the hardest country to get PR, citizenship or even travel temporarily.

This article is about the best countries to migrate to from India, including their official languages, cost of living, and eligibility criteria to be met in order to make an informed decision. Now, let's delve into the details of each country and see what makes them stand out!

1. Canada

• World Happiness Ranking 2024: #15

Canada (also known as the Land of Maple Leaf) is the leading destination for Indians to migrate to. With the best immigration policies, the country is renowned for its welcoming nature and multicultural society. Due to its quality education, around 300,000 Indian students are pursuing higher studies in top universities in Canada. The Canadian government gives subsidies for tuition fees and scholarships. For Indian immigrants, Canada offers a strong job market and a stable economy that promises high-paying jobs in engineering, education, healthcare, AI and technology.

Indians consider Canada a great place to live due to its diversity, strong social safety net, better welfare and medical infrastructure. The country is home to a large Indian population, where they celebrate Diwali (the festival of lights) and other Indian carnivals. Moreover, Canada is one of the most tolerant countries in the world. In the 2023 Global Peace Index (GPI), Canada ranked #11th, ensuring non-discrimination and peace. Canada’s tourist places lure many Indians to move to this beautiful country and become permanent residents. However, when Indians move to Canada, they must be aware of cold climatic conditions during winter.

What is the cost of living in Canada?

The cost of living in Canada is between CAD 15,000 and CAD 20,000 per year (INR 9.03L to INR 12.05L). This living cost varies based on the location. Indians with an annual income of around $75,000 to $90,000 (without taxes) can live comfortably in Canada.

Canada Immigration & PR

As of 2021, approximately 1.86 million Indians are living in Canada. To know the immigration, Canada visa types and PR, check below.

• Express Entry Visa Program: Express Entry Visa is for potential skilled foreign workers. It is the most popular and easiest way to migrate to Canada. You must score at least 67 points out of 100 to create an express entry profile. 
• Provincial Nominee Program (PNP): The PNP is for workers who have the skills, education and experience to contribute to a specific province or territory. Under the PNP, you can secure 600 additional points under the Comprehensive Ranking System. If you qualify for PNP, you can apply for a PR (permanent residency) visa. 
• Quebec Skilled Worker Program: This program is for skilled workers who want to become permanent residents in Canada and live in Quebec. In this program, you can migrate to Quebec even without a valid job offer. 
• Student Direct Stream (SDS): SDS is an expressway entry to study in Canada. After successful graduation in Canada, students can apply for PGWP and permanently settle in Canada, provided all requirements are met.

Also Read: Best cities in Canada

2. United States of America (USA)

• World Happiness Ranking 2024: #23

The United States of America (USA), the largest economy in the world, is the next best country to migrate to from India. With more than 2.7 million Indian immigrants, the USA boasts the second-largest Indian diaspora. Astonishingly, the US is the only country with the highest number of immigrants globally. The country features QS top ranking universities in 2025 like MIT, Harvard, and Stanford, where Indian students pursue popular courses like Law, Medicine, and MBA. In terms of employment, Indian immigrants secure high-salaried jobs in the USA and enjoy work benefits. Additionally, the country’s strong economic structure and various career prospects allow Indians to build their career or run a business there.

Indian families mostly prefer the USA to settle abroad, mainly for its living conditions, cultural diversity, and advanced healthcare system. On the other hand, people in the USA are also friendly and fun-loving. They embrace Indian culture. From Navratri to Eid, there is a long list of Indian festivals celebrated in the country. The climate in the USA is suitable for Indians to live in, except for extreme hot and cold weather.

What is the cost of living in the USA?

The cost of living in the USA is approximately $60,350 per year, with housing expenses being the largest, a whopping $1,900 per month. For Indians to live a normal life in the USA, a minimum of $68,500 per year is required.

US Immigration & PR

Refer to the details below regarding the US Immigration and PR.

• Immigrant visa: Indians who intend to live and work permanently in the United States must apply for an immigrant visa. This visa allows one to get a green card and apply for citizenship after five years.
• H-1B visa: This H-1B visa enables US employers to hire skilled workers in speciality occupations. 
• H-2B visa: This H-2B visa enables US companies or US agencies to recruit foreign nationals to the United States to fill temporary nonagricultural jobs. US employers must sponsor or file an immigrant petition on behalf of Indian migrant workers.

Also Read: Best cities in USA

3. United Kingdom (UK)

• World Happiness Ranking 2024: #20

The United Kingdom (UK) (also known as Great Britain) is one of the popular countries to migrate from India. Indian students, especially, move to the UK for educational purposes. They apply for top UK universities like Oxford, Cambridge, etc., for their academic excellence and research facilities. Subsequently, the country provides a two-year post-study work permit for students to gain international work experience. Due to a sustainable economy, the UK became an ideal destination for Indians to pursue their career goals.

The UK has a strong cultural connection with India. More than 1.8 million Indians are living in UK. With a wide range of Indian restaurants, shops and cuisines, a large number of Indians live in the country. Indian expats experience a wide range of tourist attractions, from historical sites to stunning countryside. They also enjoy the music and artistic events throughout the year. The only concern for Indians is the UK’s climate because winters are harsh compared to other countries. 

What is the cost of living in the UK?

The cost of living in the UK is around £2,571.5 (₹261,158.5) per year for a family of four, without housing and miscellaneous expenses. London is an expensive city with higher living costs than other UK regions. Indians with an average gross salary of £45,000–£55,000 per year can manage all expenses and live happily in the UK.

UK Immigration & PR

The UK visas and immigration offer visa categories to settle permanently or stay temporarily. You can first apply for a temporary visa. Once comfortable with the culture, climate and people, then apply for an Indefinite Leave to Remain. Now, let’s see the UK immigration and PR below.

• Skilled Worker Visa: UK A skilled worker visa (previously Tier 2 (General) work visa) allows Indians to do an eligible job in the UK with an approved employer. They can apply for UK work visas with or without a visa sponsorship.

Also Read: Best cities in UK

4. United Arab Emirates (UAE)

• World Happiness Ranking 2024: #22

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) in the Middle East region is the all-time favourite destination for Indians and their families. The Indian community constitutes 30% of the UAE’s population. Indian expats do not need to pay tax on their income. Employment in the UAE promises good money and work benefits. Moreover, the country is famous for lucrative jobs in Manufacturing, Construction, Banking, and Finance. There’s an increasing demand for doctors and nurses; thus, the UAE is immigrating healthcare professionals from India.

The Emirates has by far the largest Indian diaspora—about 3.86 million as of December 2023. That’s why the UAE is always considered the easiest country for Indians to migrate to. The official language in the UAE is Arabic; however, English, Hindi and Urdu are commonly spoken. So there’s no language barrier for Indians. The country is one of the safest in the world, promising safety and security. Despite this, Indians must watch out for limited political and social freedom.

What is the cost of living in UAE?

The cost of living in UAE is 12,646.1 AED per year, without house rent. Similarly, the average living in Dubai costs around 4500 AED for a single person. To live comfortably in the UAE without worrying about expenses, Indians should earn around 20,000 AED per month.

UAE Immigration & PR

If you want to migrate from India to the UAE, you need to apply for an employment visa, a business visa, or a family visa (if your family member is in the UAE). For Dubai residency, you must invest 1 million AED in real estate and earn a monthly salary of at least AED 10,000.

• Employment Visa: It is the main type of work visa in Dubai. Your employer can apply for this visa on your behalf. It’s called a work permit. But you ensure your employer has the eligibility and the commercial licence. 
• Investor Visa: Indian nationals who want to start a business or invest in a venture in Dubai can apply for an investor visa.
• Family Visa: This type of visa is for expatriate residents who can sponsor their families to reside in the UAE. 
• PR: The permanent residency visa allows Indian nationals to live, work and study in the country, typically for 5 to 10 years. 

5. Singapore

• World Happiness Ranking 2024: #30

Singapore, popularly known as the “Lion City” or “Garden City”, is one of the best places to migrate from India. More than 700,000 Indian immigrants, especially from Tamil Nadu, choose Singapore to stay near India and travel back home in less time. Being renowned for its cleanliness, infrastructure and effective transportation system, Singapore provides excellent education and research programs. As a result, many Indian students move to Singapore to pursue their bachelor’s and master’s programs. Singapore is also the safest for expats. Its political stability and favourable business conditions attract many Indian nationals.  

Due to its Southeast Asian location, Singapore is characterised by a hot and humid climate, making it suitable for Indians to live in. Moreover, as Tamil and English are also the official languages of Singapore, Indians can converse naturally and feel at home. The only thing Indians must watch out for is the taxes. To meet the high living standards, they must pay relatively high taxes.

What is the cost of living in Singapore?

The monthly cost of living in Singapore is SGD 1,542 (approx. INR 94,920) for a single person. Singapore is the most expensive country with a high cost of living, so financial planning is vital. Indians with a salary above SGD 7,000 per month are considered to be able to live decently in Singapore.

Singapore Immigration & PR

Singapore is one of the easiest countries to migrate from India. This is because Singapore has several immigration schemes, and at the same time, strict visa and employment laws. You can apply for an Entrepreneur Pass, Employment Pass, Student Pass, or Singapore Long-Term Visit Pass based on your needs. However, the options for permanent residence are available to certain occupations only. To move to Singapore, the most commonly used visas are:

• Business Visa: This business visa is for business tycoons who want to come to the island country to conduct business or work. Its validity is for 1 to 3 months, and can be extended up to 2 years. 
• Singapore Immigration process for professionals: For professionals like executives, managers, etc., can get an Employment Pass in Singapore. If you’re an existing Employment Pass holder, you can get a Personalised Employment Pass.
• Singapore Immigration process for skilled and semi-skilled workers: Candidates who are mid-level skilled workers and earn a minimum monthly salary of $3000 can apply for an S Pass. Similarly, a semi-skilled foreign worker can get a work permit.

6. Australia

• World Happiness Ranking 2024: #10

Australia is yet another English-speaking country (like the USA and UK), popular among Indians for migration. Many Indians move to Australia because it’s a great place to start a new life and enjoy numerous attractions. The country boasts some of the QS top universities in the world. Indian students use ample scholarships, grants and bursaries to reduce their college tuition fees. The Australian government created a suitable working environment for skilled professionals. Mining, agriculture, education and tourism are some of the booming industries. 

Australians are open-minded and accept different traditions, languages and ideas. So, people from different parts of India would feel warm and welcomed in Australia.  Around 976,000 Indians were migrated to Australia. Here, the health expenses are mostly low cost or free. Australia is also renowned for less pollution, easy access to food, water and other basic needs. The only concern for Indians is the living expenses in Australia.

What is the cost of living in Australia?

The cost of living in Australia is between AUD 3,000 and AUD 4,000 per month. Since it is quite expensive to live in Australia, Indians earning an income of $5,800 per month is enough.

Australia Immigration & PR

Australian Immigration offers a Permanent Resident visa, a Resident Return Visa, a Confirmatory Resident Return Visa, or a Special Category visa. The immigration officials use a point-based immigration system (65 points minimum) based on your age, academics, work experience, etc. To secure an immigrant visa or PR, check the following.

• Permanent Resident Visa: People can become a permanent resident of Australia through family-stream, work-stream or business/investor-stream. Many Indians choose this visa to attain citizenship in Australia.
• Resident Return Visa: This visa is for candidates who want to return to Australia as a permanent resident. To apply for this visa, you must be a former Australian permanent resident whose last permanent visa was not cancelled.

Also Read: Best cities in Australia

7. New Zealand

• World Happiness Ranking 2024: #11

New Zealand (NZ) is one of the best countries to migrate from India because it offers quality education and high-salaried jobs. The expat-friendly policies and several visa categories, ranging from study and work to bringing family and starting a business are also available. New Zealand is a safe and peaceful country in Oceania, and it has various benefits. One of the key benefits is a healthy lifestyle with a high life expectancy and subsidised medical care. 

According to the Indian Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), approx. 2,50,000 Indians have settled permanently in New Zealand. Indian couples, especially, move to New Zealand to enjoy its natural beauty. Many Indians started their own business. One can find Indian stores and restaurants everywhere. The local people are friendly, polite and helpful. The climate conditions in NZ are better than in many parts of the world. The only thing Indians should think about is the low income compared to other countries.

What is the cost of living in New Zealand?

The cost of living in New Zealand amounts to NZ$4,000–NZ$5000 per month for a single person including food, travel and utilities. Even though the living costs in New Zealand are cheaper, Indians must earn at least 75,000 NZD to run a comfortable lifestyle in the country.

New Zealand Immigration & PR

Whether you are a student or a working professional, you can gain the right to study, work and stay indefinitely with a residence class visa. The subcategories of this residence class visa include The Green List Skilled Residence, the Skilled Migrant Residence, and New Zealand residence through partnership and family categories.

• Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa: Indians can apply for this visa if they currently work or have a job offer from an Kiwi employer. They must submit an expression of interest (EOI). 
• Work to Residence Visa: This visa is for candidates who currently work or have a job offer from an accredited employer, and have worked in a Tier 2 Green List in-demand role for 2 years.

8. Germany

• World Happiness Ranking 2024: #24

Germany, as the largest economy in Europe, is on a talent hunt, attracting millions of skilled individuals from India. Meanwhile, many Indians have already started to migrate to Germany for work. The biggest advantage for Indians is the numerous jobs offered by German companies in Engineering, IT and Tech, Science, Medicine, and Energy, paving the way for permanent residency and a successful career. Many software engineers from India immigrate to Germany for its well-paid jobs. So far, over 200,000 Indians in Germany. The country is equally drawn to various types of tourist destinations like forests, mountain ranges and North Sea beaches as it lies in the heart of Europe.

Healthcare is amazing in Germany. The doctors/nurses are kind and thoughtful. The climate is very gloomy and cold during winter, so Indians must consider leather clothes to keep them warm. The quality of food is better. Even though the rent and other expenses are higher than in India, it is quite reasonable compared to other European countries.

What is the cost of living in Germany?

The cost of living in Germany is approx. €30,000 per year. Generally, Germany is not expensive when compared to other European countries. A salary between €60,000 and €70,000 per year is good for Indians to live in Germany.

Germany Immigration & PR

Germany’s lenient overseas immigration policies make it one of the cheapest countries to migrate from India. Germany visa categories include student visas, training visas, job search visas, guest scientist visas, family reunification visas, business visas, and so on. For immigration purposes, the necessary visa categories are given below.

• Job Seeker Visa: This visa is for candidates who want to come to Germany and seek a job.
• Business Visa: This visa is for business people who need to stay in Germany for more than 90 days within 6 months to do business.

9. Malta

• World Happiness Ranking 2024: #40

Malta, an island country in the central Mediterranean Sea, is gifted with a warm climate, secluded beaches and spots for diving and surfing. Malta’s high quality of life, expat-friendly environment, and affordable cost of living made the country one of the best nations to migrate from India. More than 90% of residents speak English in Malta. The biggest advantage for Indian nationals is they can gain nationality after a few years, and then you can stay or leave based on your choice.

Surprisingly, there’s a sizable Indian population in Malta. There were approx. 15,000 Indian nationals registered as working in Malta. They’re well-integrated with Maltese society. So if any Indian moves to Malta, they are welcomed with open arms. The weather is generally great with mild winters. The Maltese tax system is beneficial and returns up to 100% of the corporate tax. In terms of education, the country offers both public and private schools with programs based on the UK or US standards.

What is the cost of living in Malta?

The cost of living in Malta is €2,250 per month. Malta is considered one of the cheapest countries in Europe, with low living costs. To live a nice life in Malta, an average salary of €3,000–€3,500 is required for Indians. This amount depends on factors like industry, experience and qualifications.

Malta Immigration & PR

Indians can apply for visas. For PR, you can get it through investment. Once PR is approved, it's granted for life. You can enter 25 other European countries without a visa, add close family members to the application, and various other benefits included. The requirements for PR are no criminal records, legal income, proof of assets of €500,000+ per year, including €150,000+ of liquid financial assets like deposits, stocks or bonds, and medical insurance.

• Permanent Residency: To become a Permanent Resident in Malta, you need to pay 15 per cent tax on your income.

10. Switzerland

• World Happiness Ranking 2024: #9

Switzerland, ranked No. 1 overall in the U.S. News Best Countries rankings, is considered the best country for Indians to migrate to. Renowned for its cleanliness, standard of living, and well-maintained infrastructure, Switzerland offers numerous benefits to Indian immigrants, including lucrative job opportunities, a good work-life balance, breathtaking landscapes, and friendly people. The Indian community in Switzerland comprises approximately 27,300 people, with about 750 Indian students studying in Swiss universities.

For Indian immigrants, integrating into Swiss culture is best achieved by learning the local language. Indian nationals can also enjoy Switzerland's abundance of lakes, snowy mountains, and beautiful villages.

What is the cost of living in Switzerland?

The cost of living in Switzerland is between 4,000 and 8,000 Swiss francs per month. Switzerland is expensive for Indians. So they should earn an average salary of CHF 57,255 to live comfortably in the country.

Switzerland Immigration and PR

If you’re planning to move to Switzerland from India, you have to apply for a National Visa D to stay in the country over 90 days. People applying for a Schengen visa can submit their application to an external service provider. No online applications are accepted. And please note that the Embassy of Switzerland in New Delhi has increased processing time to 10-15 working days.

• Schengen Visa: This visa is used for travel, business and other permitted purposes in Switzerland. If you have a visa issued by a Schengen member state, you do not require an additional visa to enter the country.

What are the eligibility criteria to migrate to the best countries from India?

The eligibility criteria to migrate to the best countries from India are as follows.

• Visa application form
• A valid passport
• Two photographs
• English language proficiency proof (IELTS/TOEFL/PTE)
• Relevant work experience
• Job offer letter
• Proof of your relationship with your family members
• Proof of financial support
• Medical certificate
• No criminal records

Conclusion

After going through all the countries, it's clear that Indians relocate to foreign countries for a better quality of life, low pollution, corruption-free society, ease of doing business, and finally, retirement. Some of the best countries to migrate from India are Canada, the USA, the UK and Australia. If you’re planning to move abroad but are not sure which country to migrate from India, give us a chance. We will guide you based on your requirements and future plans.

FAQs

1. What are the easy PR countries for Indians?

Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Germany, Ireland and Malta are the easy PR countries for Indians because their immigration policies are lenient and require less documentation compared to other countries.

2. What are the best countries to migrate from India for jobs?

The best countries to migrate from India for jobs are the USA, UK, UAE and Singapore due to their high employment rates, work-life balance and high-salaried jobs.

3. What are the best countries to migrate from India with family?

The best countries to migrate from India with family members include Australia, Canada, UAE, Sweden and Denmark. Millions of people bring their loved ones, including spouses, children and parents, to these countries using the family reunification visa category. The processing time for such family visa applications is within 30 days. 

4. What are the best European countries to migrate from India? 

The list of best European countries to migrate from India include:

• Ireland
• Germany
• Denmark
• Spain
• Sweden
• Switzerland