For those intending to go overseas for studies, Canada vs India is a not a difficult choice to make. Canada is the top study destination for Indian students with significant differences in living standards, educational systems and permanent residence benefits. So Indians are one of the most critical student communities in this country.
According to the reports, Canada approved 319,130 Indian student visas, and India approved 268,923 international student visas.
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At a glance:
| Duration of study | 1. Canada – 4 to 8 years 2. India – 3 to 8 years |
| Best cities | 1. Canada – Toronto, Vancouver, Calgary, Ontario 2. India – Delhi, Bangalore, Mumbai, Gurugram |
| Average cost of living | 1. Canada – CAD 15,000 – 20,000 (per year) 2. India – INR 10,000 – 20,000 (per month) |
Benefits of living in Canada vs India
An exciting factor between lifestyles, opportunities, and cultural experiences is revealed when comparing the benefits of living in Canada to those of India. Both countries are global hubs with their unique charm and advantages. By exploring the benefits of each country, you can identify a range of opportunities and experiences that cater to different desires and preferences.
Listed below are some of the benefits of living in Canada
- Quality of life: Canada offers a high quality of life ensuring basic needs like a good environment, clean air, corrupt-free services, etc. to its residents and immigrants.
- Education: In Canada, education is free for children up to 18 years. For higher education, universities in Canada are ranked 30th in QS world rankings, which usually attracts many Indian students including other international students.
- Healthcare: The public healthcare system offers access to high-quality, affordable healthcare.
- Safety & Security: Canada is known for its low crime rates and safe cities, ultimately providing a secure environment.
- Employment Opportunities: Employment opportunities in Canada are available to new graduates at leading companies such as Google, KPMG, IBM and online employment portals. You can also apply immediately after you complete your graduation.
Listed below are some of the benefits of living in India
- Low cost of living: Although India is the 6th largest economy, its living costs are not as high as in other countries such as the US, China, Japan etc.
- Education system: In India, the education system consists of a wide range of institutions, including private and government-funded. The system is focused on rigorous learning and tests, but reforms are being implemented to foster creative thinking and practical skills.
- Cultural diversity: India is rich in culture, language, traditions and festivals, providing a diverse living experience.
- Tourist attraction: India is home to some of the world’s most famous tourist destinations, such as the Taj Mahal, the Himalayas, etc. Tourists also visit to see the beauty of historical monuments, spiritualism, health care, adventure, and serene natural areas.
- Quality of food: India has a wealth of natural resources, so the food served is of the highest quality. The ancient tradition of cooking is followed to ensure the food is healthy.
Cost of living in Canada vs India
Costs of living is a term that signifies the funds needed for everyday basic needs such as housing, food, transportation, healthcare, etc. With a Canadian dollar equal to 61.32 Indian rupees, it is pretty much clear that the cost of living has increased in Canada as compared to India. However, the living standards are better in Canada.
Given below is a table consisting of the cost of living in Canada vs India
| Factors | Canada (per month) | India (per month) |
| Accommodation | CAD 400 – 600 | INR 5,000 – 20,000 |
| Transportation | CAD 100 – 250 | INR 2,000 – 4,000 |
| Education | CAD 21,100 – 36,100 | INR 2L – 5L (per year) |
| Health Insurance | CAD 644 (avg.) | INR 2,000 – 3,000 |
| Food expenses | CAD 200 – 300 | INR 1,000 – 4,000 |
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Education System in Canada vs India
The education systems in both Canada and India are dynamic reflections of the countries’ cultural, economic, and social landscapes. Canada’s system is renowned for its high quality, inclusive approach emphasising critical thinking and practical skills while India’s system is renowned for its traditional methods alongside a modern curriculum, vast socio-economic background and diverse educational framework.
Both Canada and India are known for providing free education to children from ages 6 to 14 and up to 18 in Canada. However, Canada has surpassed India in terms of quality education. In Canada, the educational system consists of children’s schools, public and private schools as well as universities.
Private schools charge CAD 4,000 – 26,000 (per year), whereas, in India, private schools charge INR 2,500 – 8,000 (per month). Furthermore, Indian students in Canada receive a subsidy from the government for fees and scholarships.
Canada has some of the best universities in the world regarding higher education. In the QS global university rankings 2023, Canada’s universities have been ranked among the 50 best in the world, such as McGill University at 31st, Toronto 34th and UBC 47th. On the other hand, India’s universities are among the top 200. For example, the Indian Institute of Science is 155th, IIT Bombay is 172nd, and IIT Delhi is in 174th position.
Generally, several Indian students are studying abroad for bachelor’s and master’s degrees in Canada, with qualification criteria such as the IELTS TOEFL or PTE scores, fee structure, degree requirements, etc.
Mostly, Indian students are going into medicine, technology, law or MBA programs. In comparison, to be able to obtain visas quickly, Canada is offering SDS and nonSDS visas for Indian students including other International students. However, if the educational requirements are fulfilled, you can apply for Public Relations after graduation.
Top Universities in Canada vs India
A wide range of educational excellence and various learning environments are evident as you explore top universities in Canada and India.
Canada has one of the best globally recognised institutions known worldwide for their cutting-edge research, innovative programs and multicultural campuses. On the other hand, India has a mix of top universities blending tradition with modernity, offering a wide range of disciplines and fostering intellectual development.
Here is a list of the top 5 universities in Canada and India along with their QS world rankings
| Canada | India |
| University of Toronto (25) | IISc Bangalore (155) |
| McGill University (27) | IIT Bombay (172) |
| University of British Columbia (45) | IIT Delhi (174) |
| University of Alberta (113) | IIT Madras (250) |
| University of Waterloo (173) | IIT Kanpur (264) |
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Employment Opportunities in Canada vs India
In Canada, the employment opportunities for people seeking careers are characterised by an uneven but equally diverse landscape. In sectors such as technology, medicine, finance and natural resources, Canada is well-placed to offer a wide range of career opportunities marked by stability in the economy and diversified industries. Global talent is attracted by its immigrant-friendly policies and focus on innovation.
In India, the rapid growth in the employment sector presents a dynamic labour market, with emerging opportunities in fields such as information technology, engineering, healthcare and entrepreneurship. In addition to its large and developing market, the country has a wide range of sectors which will make it an excellent place for career development and innovation.
Below are the top 5 highest paying job profiles in Canada and India along with average salary
> Canada
- Buisness Intelligence Analyst – CAD 83,469
- Cloud Architect – CAD 142,462
- IT Project Manager – CAD 108,810
- Data Scientist – CAD 107,054
- DevOps Engineer – CAD 105,395
> India
- Data Scientist – INR 14L
- Software Developer – INR 9L
- Big Data Analyst – INR 8.24L
- Artificial Intelligence – INR 1.40L (per month)
- Cloud Computing – INR 5.73L
Top 5 Companies in Canada vs India
The tapestry of corporations that shape their countries’ economies and employment environments is revealed when examining the most successful recruitment firms in Canada and India.
These leading companies in each country have an impact and influence that can be seen both on the job market and in career prospects within several economically and ethnically diverse contexts.
Check below for top hiring companies in Canada and India
| Canada | India |
| Brookfield Asset Management | Tata Consultancy Services |
| Alimentation Couche-Tard | Reliance Industries |
| Royal Bank of Canada | Infosys |
| Cenovus Energy | ITC Limited |
| George Weston Limited | Adani Enterprises |
Types of Visa in Canada vs India
Visa requirements for Canada and India vary based on the nationality, type of visa, purpose of travel, and duration of stay.
Given below are the types of visas in Canada and India.
Canada
In Canada, depending on the type of visa, the specific requirements may vary, but in general, applicants must provide proof of funds, travel plans, a valid passport and, in some cases, a medical examination or biometrics.
- Visitor Visa (Temporary Resident Visa – TRV): It is necessary for visitors, business travellers and individuals who come to visit family or friends. Citizens from countries not covered by Visa exemptions may also be subject to such a requirement.
- Work Visa: To those planning to work in Canada on a temporary or permanent basis. It covers different categories, e.g., permits for temporary work and permits for skilled workers to enter an Express Entry Scheme.
- Study Permit: For a study visa, you must study in Canada for more than six months.
India
The visa requirements of India also differ according to the purpose of travel, length of stay and nationality of the applicant. The necessary documentation usually includes a valid passport, an application form, photographs, proof of financial means and specific documentary evidence for travel.
- Tourist Visa: It’s required for tourists who visit India to go out and have fun or just walk around.
- Employment Visa: For those who wish to work in India you will require the sponsorship of a company in India to get an employment visa.
- Student Visa: It is necessary for international students to plan on pursuing studies in India during a specified time.
Summing Up
Canada promises a better standard of living, highly paid work for skilled workers, safe places to live, accessible healthcare services, and many other things compared to India. India pursues achieving the highest security standards, universal health insurance, appropriate infrastructure, quality education and so on.
For more guidance, on which country to choose contact our LeapScholar Team.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Why is Canada better than India?
Ans. The quality of life, excellent health care, stable economies and an inclusive society are often praised in Canada. It provides a multicultural environment that focuses strongly on quality education and well-developed infrastructure. However, according to personal priorities, cultural affinity, career opportunities, and lifestyle preferences, what makes one country better than another is subjective and varies.
Q. Is Canada good for Indians?
Ans. Due to its welcoming atmosphere, diversity of society, stable economic situation, and opportunities in all sectors, Canada can be an ideal place for many Indians. It is an attractive choice due to the country’s inclusive policies, high-quality education system, affordable health care and emphasis on multiculturalism.
Q. How do education systems in Canada and India differ?
Ans. There is a difference between the structure, emphasis and accessibility of education systems in Canada and India. The Canadian system focuses on critical thinking, practical skills, and inclusion principles to create a structured and dynamic learning environment. Compared to India, the system comprises an extensive range of methods blended with modern curricula catering to various socio-economic backgrounds.
Q. What are the primary differences between Canada and India?
Ans. There are significant differences in the different aspects between Canada and India. Canada is one of the most developed countries in the world, with a high quality of life, a stable economy and an inclusive society. On the other hand, a rich cultural heritage, rapid growth, and a diverse tapestry of traditions and languages are celebrated in India, an emerging economy. Countries vary in lifestyle, health systems, education, business structures and culture.
Q. What opportunities are there for Indian students in Canada?
Ans. Canada’s educational system offers numerous possibilities to Indian students, who are famous for their quality and diversity. They can access top-tier universities and colleges offering various programs, including STEM fields, business, and the arts. Canada offers avenues for developing skills and research opportunities, as well as access to a multicultural environment.
Q. How do healthcare systems differ in Canada and India?
Ans. Canada is providing its citizens with a publicly funded universal health system so that they have access to essential medical services. It is based on equality and accessibility, which enables it to cover all types of health care. Meanwhile, India has a heterogeneous healthcare system covering government and industry sectors with varying levels of accessibility and quality.
Q. How much is a good salary in Canada?
Ans. In Canada, a “good” salary varies depending on location, profession and exceptional circumstances. For a single individual, an annual income of CAD 50,000 to 70,000 is often considered comfortable in relation to basic expenses such as housing, utilities, food and transport.
Q. Why Canada is better than India for study?
Ans. Generally, Canada has a globally recognised education system, renowned universities, diverse educational programs, and a multicultural environment, which makes it a choice for many Indian students to study. The country offers a high-quality of education that will focus on technical skills and critical thinking. Additionally, Canada’s immigration policies provide opportunities for international students to gain valuable work experience during and after their studies, with pathways for permanent residency.
Q. How is life in Canada for Indians?
Ans. Due to the country’s open society, diverse communities and rich opportunities, life can be good for Indian people in Canada. Indian expatriates often find a welcoming environment that embraces multiculturalism and offers a balance between work and personal life. Canada’s well-developed infrastructure, quality healthcare, and education systems meet diverse needs, while adapting to a new country and climate may pose initial challenges.
Q. What are the visa requirements for visiting Canada?
Ans. Visa requirements depend upon the nationality of a visitor to Canada. Temporary resident visas or electronic travel permits are required by several visitors before entering the country. The eTA facilitates access to tourism, business and transit for visa-exempt countries. However, the application for a TRV may have to be made by citizens of certain countries. The applicant shall usually require the following documents: a passport, an application form, proof of funds and travel plans.
Q. What are the employment opportunities in Canada?
Ans. Canada’s employment opportunities vary from sector to sector, including technology, healthcare, finance, natural resources and services. Internationally, the country’s stable economy attracts professionals thanks to its relaxed immigration policy and skilled worker programs. There is a growing demand for qualified workers in sectors such as information technology, engineering, healthcare and finance.
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