List of hardest countries to emigrate: A closer look

Monday, March 4, 2024

In an era where globalization has made the world seem smaller, the complexity of emigrating to certain countries remains a significant challenge. A new study by William Russell provides a comprehensive overview of the hardest countries to emigrate to, analyzing factors such as expat population, visa data, required vaccines, language requirements, and more. This study not only sheds light on the stringent requirements of various nations but also underscores the diverse challenges potential immigrants might face.

The Rigors of Emigration: A Closer Look at the Hardest Countries

India: A Paradox of Openness and Restriction

Topping the list is India, with a difficulty score of 6.45 out of 10. Despite its rich cultural heritage and burgeoning economy, India presents a tough front for immigrants, mainly due to its Employment Visa requirements. The country’s low expat population, at just 0.4%, highlights the exclusivity of its immigration process. Visa applicants face significant fees, an estimated ₹1,625,000 (approximately £427), and a relatively quick processing time of 10-15 working days. However, India does not require a language test, slightly mitigating the overall difficulty.

Australia: High Costs and Stringent Language Requirements

Australia is a close second, with its Temporary Skill Shortage Visa (subclass 482) scoring 6.42 on the difficulty scale. Australia’s allure as a destination is evident in its substantial expat community, constituting 30.1% of the population. However, the high visa fees (AU$3,035/£1,570), lengthy processing times (4 to 8 months), and mandatory English-language proficiency test make it a challenging prospect for many.

Finland and the EU Blue Card

Finland, with a score of 5.78, represents the European challenge with its version of the EU Blue Card. The country’s high earnings threshold (€62,508/£53,513) and application cost (€380/£325) reflect the stringent requirements for skilled workers looking to move to Finland.

Additional Insights: From Romania to Canada

The study further delves into countries like Romania, the Netherlands, and the United States, each presenting unique hurdles for immigrants. Romania and the Netherlands offer the EU Blue Card but with varying degrees of difficulty, attributed to their different expat populations and financial thresholds. The United States, with its H-1B Visa, and Canada, through its Temporary Foreign Worker Program, also pose challenges, particularly with the U.S.’s high visa fee and Canada’s lengthy application processing time.

Easier Paths: A Glimpse at Hungary

Contrasting these challenges, Hungary emerges as the easiest country to emigrate to, with a difficulty score of 3.85. This highlights the wide spectrum of immigration policies and practices around the globe.

Critical Factors Influencing Immigration Difficulty

Vaccination Requirements:

 India requires the most vaccines, illustrating the health and safety considerations that can complicate immigration processes.

Visa Fees:

Australia’s high visa-related fees represent a significant barrier for potential immigrants, emphasizing the financial burden of the emigration process.

Earnings Thresholds:

Luxembourg’s high salary threshold showcases the economic expectations placed on immigrants, particularly those seeking skilled positions.

Language Proficiency:

The requirement for a language proficiency test in countries like Australia, Canada, and the UK underscores the importance of integration and communication skills in the immigration process.

Processing Times:

Canada’s notably long application processing time points to the bureaucratic hurdles that can delay or deter potential immigrants.

The study by William Russell illuminates the multifaceted challenges of emigrating to some of the world’s most sought-after destinations. From financial and health requirements to bureaucratic hurdles and cultural integration measures, the path to immigration is fraught with challenges. Yet, understanding these complexities is the first step for those aspiring to make a new country their home. As global mobility continues to evolve, so too will the policies and practices that govern it, shaping the future landscape of international migration.

« Back to Page

• Arrival of Scenic Eclipse II at Sydney Harbour boosts Australia tourism

• As an Indonesian volcano erupts, Australia is under tsunami alert

• River Rafting, River Cruise and Canal Tours boost water tourism

• Food and Hotel Asia Singapore 2024 to attract global hospitality leaders

• This weekend, best road trips you must take in Asia